Water beads for potting Phal.

[julisha1]

I have a noid Phal.would you advice the use of water beads as a medium for potting orchids.

[cindiras]

What are water beads?

[delphiguy]

are water beads those pebble like thingies that when you submerge in water absorbs
them and turns into a jelly? I have seen some here, i have thought of trying it out but
was afraid to try it because it's going to be too wet for the root zone.

[margo]

Might be just me, but I don't think that's a good idea... Orchids need air and good drainage and I don't think they will like it in a jello-like medium... I was thinking about using some for a lucky bamboo, but when I bought one lucky bamboo and one lucky bean the only lucky ones in my house were the cats...

[julisha1]

Thank you for your input.

[Brutal_Dreamer]

I have seen these water beads and heard of people using them for plants, but not anyone using them for orchids. That said, people seem to be growing orchids in everything from open air to recycled tires. Why not give it a go with an inexpensive orchid and see how it goes? You may kill it right away or discover the next best grow medium.

Cheers,
BD