Repotting 3 Phals in a 100% Perlite Semi Hydro medium

[empiref]

I found in a local pharmacy some lava rocks (heel to toe) for scrubbing, the size of a PC mouse.



I ordered a large quantity about 20, it takes a week to arrive...I was thinking of hammering them down to little pieces the size of a glass marble...
Is Lava rock suitable for S/H? and should I mix it with my perlite or not?

Thank you all for your help!

[Halloamey]

Hi Johnny, I have sent you a message. The lava rock and charcoal will be good additives to your mix, but I am afraid lava rock cannot be used as the sole medium as it is not efficient at wicking the water atleast the ones that are available here in India.

[ManilaByNight]

Here in the Philippines, some orchid growers use the red volcano rock as medium.

I'm not sure about the black volcano rock variety. What I know about S/H is that the medium should have very good wicking action for water.

I think a better alternative for Hydrocorn or PrimeAgra pellets is Orchid rock diatomite.

[ksb]

Have you thought of ordering the potting material that you need from an on line source?

[jowben1]

I agree with BD. I used pearlite on some small plants, and found it turned to "mush" after a few months.