Changing From Bark To Hydroton

[1buzz]

I have just repotted a Cattleya that had been 100 % in bark. I put it in a hydro net pot 6” in diameter x 4 1/2” in depth with 100 % Hydroton after I cleaned the Hydroton foe 24 hours . It has no reservoir as the water goes in and out at the bottom of the pot after all the Hydroton has gotten wet. Is this OK? How often should I water it ? Does this action (no reservoir with Hydroton) have a name. I think that if it had a reservoir it would be called semi-hydroponic. I don’t mind watering everyday if necessary. . I love the idea of using the Hydroton versus the Bark as the Hydroton is reusable , you don’t have to repot it as often and there is less likelihood of the roots to rot. I am planning on repotting all my Orchids that have been in bark after they have bloomed which are Cattleya, Cymbidium, and Phalaenopsis . Is there any thing I ought to know or is there anything I ought to do or not do? When it comes to Orchids I am a new boy in town.

[Ron-NY]

Catts like to dry out quickly and I have some in Hydroton in slat baskets and clay pots with extra drainage wholes. They do fine like that. I also have some in plastic tubs with a water reservoir and they do fine that way as well. . I water 2X per week in winter and 3X in summer. I have not tried Cyms but Phals you will want a water reservoir for. It is best to make this change over at time of new root growth

[1buzz]

Thanks Ron. I may use a reservoir for my Phalaenopsis. Not sure what to do with my Cymbidiums but I have got a long time before I have to repot them.

[cindiras]

You can always put a plastic drip tray under your pots and use it for a water reservoir. I put my cyms in 1/2 gallon and gallon plastic tea or lemonade pitchers in hydroton. I did NOT put drain holes in the pitchers. After I soak them, I pour the excess water on my geraniums and other house plants, leaving about 3 or 4 inches of water in the bottom of each pitcher. I like the handles on the pitchers, makes moving the plants a bit easier.

[Brutal_Dreamer]

Great idea Cindi!

Cheers,
BD

[wetfeet101b]

Does this action (no reservoir with Hydroton) have a name.

That is pretty much the same as mounting the plant. Except that the roots are enveloped by the mounting medium, instead of the other way around.
Cattleyas do well in those conditions assuming you have proper humidity in the growing area.
Just make sure to give the plant a serious drenching and let the roots dry out in between.

Check out this article for additional reference:
Orchid Culture