S/H in an orchidarium

[SaMRoza]

I've been growing many plants in S/H in my orchidarium for close to 2 years now. I have to say, I've gotten some of the worst results. They grow well for a while, and then, eventually all of the roots rot out.

When I first noticed this, I changed my watering schedule to keep the resevoirs less full and a touch more dry. This doesn't seem to have helped much, if at all.

I'm wondering if anyone has the same results as I do with S/H in an orchidarium...

Sam

[paphman910]

I grow one phal in semi-hydroponics in a very low humidity conditions under my HID lighting. It grows alot of new roots into the clay pellets. I notice every 7 days in the hot summers the reservior water level drops down to 5 mm before I fill it up to 5 cm.

I have a feeling that your roots may be too wet for too long a period of time in the orchidarium. Also the moisture level in the orchidarium is higher so it will not dry out very slowly. I think the colder temperature and wet condition in the winter and fall will cause root problems.

Paphman

[SaMRoza]

It's the only thing I can think of, really. I've tried to figure it out now for years, and I've only recently come to this conclusion.

[paphman910]

I have a fan nearby creating a bit of air movement. Air movement is a very critical part of a epiphyte's health.

Paphman

[Gin]

I agree with Paphman , Too wet , no chance for the roots to dry to any degree , I would try a diffrent method , how about putting holes in the bottom like a regular pot if it can be done , I grow quite a few in straight s/h pellets in the green house . Gin

[SaMRoza]

Airflow isn't/shouldn't be a problem. I have a nice large fan in there.

[Gin]

Hi ! It depends on the humidity if very high even with a fan the moisture won't evaporate fast enough . Just thoughts . Gin