Interesting you would get that impression.

Catts and dens have pseudobulbs for storing water and nutrients, so can
handle long dry periods. Phals don't, only having their fleshy leaves for
storage, so generally need to stay constantly moist.

I also believe there is no such thing as a "best" potting medium for a
specific plant. Yes, the watering needs of the plant play a role in medium
selection, but so do the light level, air movement, temperature, humidity,
and the watering tendencies of the grower, which of course, vary all over
the map.

Some time ago I summarized a bit of that he
http://www.firstrays.com/potting_media.htm

--

Ray Barkalow - First Rays Orchids - www.firstrays.com
Plants, Supplies. Books, Artwork, and lots of Free Info!


"BruceM" wrote in message
Thr Phal's seem to be a it less sensitive to drying out than the Cats and
Dendrobiums (based on watching mine). would that be a correct general
observation? Watching these over the last year, they seem to prefer it if
I let the medium get dry just a 1-2 inches down and then water them. The
phals seem to like it if I let the medium dry 3-4 inches down (4-6 inch
pots).