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Questions from a beginning orchid grower
I have been looking into growing orchids via hydroponics. What do you guys
think? Any one know were I can get a small cheap system? Also grow lights for Phal? Help speed growth? Waste? What type should I get? If my orchid is blooming right now and the spike is still growing out with a small new bud should I fertilize? I got this Schultz orchid food that says 1/4 tsp for every gallon and then a book that says what ever the package says do half that amount who should I follow? Also can I add cold water to the plant or do I need to microwave it so it is lukewarm? Misting: How frequent do I mist? What part of the plant do I mist? How much should I mist? Should I have fertilizer in the mister? Watering about once a week right? How do I water, do I pour water all around the plant till I feel it's soaked then pour out the excess water in the tray? or do I add water to a tray and let it sit for 45 minutes? Or something else? Thanks Chris |
Questions from a beginning orchid grower
Generally speaking, a shared-bath nutrient system is to be avoided, as it
provides a potential pathway for plant pathogens. Go to the URL below and check out the "Semi-Hydroponics" link. -- Ray Barkalow - First Rays Orchids - www.firstrays.com Plants, Supplies, Books, Artwork, and Lots of Free Info! .. . . . . . . . . . . "The Enigma" wrote in message .com... I have been looking into growing orchids via hydroponics. What do you guys think? Any one know were I can get a small cheap system? Also grow lights for Phal? Help speed growth? Waste? What type should I get? If my orchid is blooming right now and the spike is still growing out with a small new bud should I fertilize? I got this Schultz orchid food that says 1/4 tsp for every gallon and then a book that says what ever the package says do half that amount who should I follow? Also can I add cold water to the plant or do I need to microwave it so it is lukewarm? Misting: How frequent do I mist? What part of the plant do I mist? How much should I mist? Should I have fertilizer in the mister? Watering about once a week right? How do I water, do I pour water all around the plant till I feel it's soaked then pour out the excess water in the tray? or do I add water to a tray and let it sit for 45 minutes? Or something else? Thanks Chris |
Questions from a beginning orchid grower
Chris,
Welcome to the group and to Phals :-) Here are some answers to the best of my knowledge, which admitedly is limited, but is growing fast: Also I would encourage you to search the archives of this group http://groups.google.com/groups?grou...ardens.orchids Lots of useful advice has been given. Go to http://www.firstrays.com for information and materials for hydroponics. Do you have a window which you can place your Phal in? If so, grow lights may not be necessary for Phal, they need only low light, and too much light is not good. Me, I have to suplement the natural light with artificial, but that's only because all I have are northern windows shaded by huge trees outside, so that's too little light, but as long as you have more than that, try growing your Phals without a grow light for a while first. Only get grow lights if a) yoir Phal's leaves are too dark and it won't rebloom for you without the light; b) You want the flexibility of palcing the plant somewhere away from the window; or c) You want to get other orchids not just Phals. Opinions on how much to fertilize seem to vary, but my understanding is that either the lowest amount listed on the bottle or even half that should be enough. Too much fertilizer will be harmful, and will reduce your chance of reblooming. It's better to underfertilize than to overfertilize, just as it's better to water less frequently than to water too frequently. Water needs to be lukewarm, but not too warm. Why do you want to microwave it though? You can get lukewarm from the faucet, or put some water in a bottle and let it stand in room temp, and it will be lukewarm. I once heard that if you let the water stand, at least some of the minerals from the tap water will settle on the bottom, which may be a good thing. Misting is again a topic on which I found people are devided. One side of the debate argues that misting makes no difference, since you would have to mist constantly to make a noticable difference in humidity. Some people say that misting the leaves and roots in the morning simulates dew on the plant. Others are big fans of misting whenever they pass the plant. I have not heard anyone suggest adding fertilizer in the mister though. Most people say that it is best not to water by schedule, but rather to water when the plant needs it. If your Phal is potted in moss, touch the surface and water when the surface is dry. If it is in bark, check the weight of the pot in your hand until you can figure out how light it is when it needs water versus how heavy when just watered. Some claim this is easy, me I can't tell enough of a difference in weight to know for sure when to water, so for Phals in bark I check the weight, but also keep track of the schedule when each plant was last watered, and mostly water the big ones in bark every two weeks or so. Of course if you decide to repot in hydroponics or semi-hydro the watering schedule will change. It is best to water in the morning rather than in the evening, so that the leaves are dry by night. Pour a lot of water from above and let it drain well -- excess water should be removed from the tray, unless you have a humidity tray that is below the plant but the plant is not standing in the water. "The Enigma" wrote in message .com... I have been looking into growing orchids via hydroponics. What do you guys think? Any one know were I can get a small cheap system? Also grow lights for Phal? Help speed growth? Waste? What type should I get? If my orchid is blooming right now and the spike is still growing out with a small new bud should I fertilize? I got this Schultz orchid food that says 1/4 tsp for every gallon and then a book that says what ever the package says do half that amount who should I follow? Also can I add cold water to the plant or do I need to microwave it so it is lukewarm? Misting: How frequent do I mist? What part of the plant do I mist? How much should I mist? Should I have fertilizer in the mister? Watering about once a week right? How do I water, do I pour water all around the plant till I feel it's soaked then pour out the excess water in the tray? or do I add water to a tray and let it sit for 45 minutes? Or something else? Thanks Chris |
Questions from a beginning orchid grower
I am in the process of learning how to grow in semihydroponics. I haven't
yet tried it with my phals as I'm waiting for them to finish their bloom before switching over. So far, the plants I have started are really happy. All are putting out new roots and just looking happier. I tend to be an overwaterer and that problem has virtually disappeared now. I have used Ray's website for information and have purchased my supplies from him. If he wanted to write the orchid Bible, I would read it. His information has always been to the money and would encourage you to follow the directives in his website. I think you'll be happy as will your plants. Happy Holidays! Frank "The Enigma" wrote in message .com... I have been looking into growing orchids via hydroponics. What do you guys think? Any one know were I can get a small cheap system? Also grow lights for Phal? Help speed growth? Waste? What type should I get? If my orchid is blooming right now and the spike is still growing out with a small new bud should I fertilize? I got this Schultz orchid food that says 1/4 tsp for every gallon and then a book that says what ever the package says do half that amount who should I follow? Also can I add cold water to the plant or do I need to microwave it so it is lukewarm? Misting: How frequent do I mist? What part of the plant do I mist? How much should I mist? Should I have fertilizer in the mister? Watering about once a week right? How do I water, do I pour water all around the plant till I feel it's soaked then pour out the excess water in the tray? or do I add water to a tray and let it sit for 45 minutes? Or something else? Thanks Chris |
Questions from a beginning orchid grower
Frank, speaking strictly from my perspective, I've had no trouble moving
phals in full bloom/spike/bud (take your pick) into semi hydro. Infact two that were in full glorious bloom when I got them are doing wonderfully. A phal I bought in tight bud, didn't miss a beat, nothing blasted, and I"m anxiously waiting for it to open so I can post pics. -- Hugs, Molli "Frank H. Kirchner" wrote in message news:gdMCb.6520$F22.160@lakeread02... I am in the process of learning how to grow in semihydroponics. I haven't yet tried it with my phals as I'm waiting for them to finish their bloom before switching over. So far, the plants I have started are really happy. All are putting out new roots and just looking happier. I tend to be an overwaterer and that problem has virtually disappeared now. I have used Ray's website for information and have purchased my supplies from him. If he wanted to write the orchid Bible, I would read it. His information has always been to the money and would encourage you to follow the directives in his website. I think you'll be happy as will your plants. Happy Holidays! Frank "The Enigma" wrote in message .com... I have been looking into growing orchids via hydroponics. What do you guys think? Any one know were I can get a small cheap system? Also grow lights for Phal? Help speed growth? Waste? What type should I get? If my orchid is blooming right now and the spike is still growing out with a small new bud should I fertilize? I got this Schultz orchid food that says 1/4 tsp for every gallon and then a book that says what ever the package says do half that amount who should I follow? Also can I add cold water to the plant or do I need to microwave it so it is lukewarm? Misting: How frequent do I mist? What part of the plant do I mist? How much should I mist? Should I have fertilizer in the mister? Watering about once a week right? How do I water, do I pour water all around the plant till I feel it's soaked then pour out the excess water in the tray? or do I add water to a tray and let it sit for 45 minutes? Or something else? Thanks Chris |
Questions from a beginning orchid grower
Frank!
I`m growing Phal , Paph, Onc and Tel in S/H with great success. Good luck Claude "Frank H. Kirchner" wrote in message news:gdMCb.6520$F22.160@lakeread02... | I am in the process of learning how to grow in semihydroponics. I haven't | yet tried it with my phals as I'm waiting for them to finish their bloom | before switching over. So far, the plants I have started are really happy. | All are putting out new roots and just looking happier. I tend to be an | overwaterer and that problem has virtually disappeared now. I have used | Ray's website for information and have purchased my supplies from him. If | he wanted to write the orchid Bible, I would read it. His information has | always been to the money and would encourage you to follow the directives in | his website. I think you'll be happy as will your plants. | | Happy Holidays! | Frank | "The Enigma" wrote in message | .com... | I have been looking into growing orchids via hydroponics. What do you | guys | think? Any one know were I can get a small cheap system? | | Also grow lights for Phal? Help speed growth? Waste? What type should I | get? | | If my orchid is blooming right now and the spike is still growing out with | a | small new bud should I fertilize? I got this Schultz orchid food that | says | 1/4 tsp for every gallon and then a book that says what ever the package | says do half that amount who should I follow? Also can I add cold water | to | the plant or do I need to microwave it so it is lukewarm? | | Misting: How frequent do I mist? What part of the plant do I mist? How | much should I mist? Should I have fertilizer in the mister? | | Watering about once a week right? How do I water, do I pour water all | around the plant till I feel it's soaked then pour out the excess water | in | the tray? or do I add water to a tray and let it sit for 45 minutes? Or | something else? | | Thanks | Chris | | | | |
Questions from a beginning orchid grower
Hi Chris. Beginner here too. Did you get all your questions
answered? I'll try and help you with what I've learned. I have a Phalaenopsis - - so use this info. for that, other orchids are different, read up on the type you have. Don't overwater! I killed my first orchid that way, only water when the medium is dry. My orchid is just this side of dry now and I'm gonna water it with a jug of rain water I keep next to it tomorrow. It's under a plant light next to an east window with blinds half way open. LIght during the day, plant light for awhile in the evening. Don't use potting soil! Phal's hate it. And don't let water stand under it in a tray. Ferlilize maybe once a week and I don't think you want to fertilize now cause orchids like to grow when fertilized and not bloom. (I think mixing half strength is for when you have a fertilizer not specific to orchids.) You can mist if you want to, but do it so the plant is dry by nightfall. Watch for wrinkly leaves, and use a wall type heater vent on top of a pebble tray half way full of water for humidity. There - how's that for starters? Hope it helps, ask anything you want, from the answers I've read here people are real professionals.....Burr |
Questions from a beginning orchid grower
Molli,
Interesting. I wonder whether you were just lucky or whether people exaggerate when they say that one should avoid repotting orchids when in spike, bud or bloom. I would have thought that if orchids shouldn't be repotted when in spike, then moving them to semi-hydro when in spike should be even more risky, since if I understand correctly they need to grow completely new roots to take advantage of semi-hydro. Am I misunderstanding something? I do not have any first hand experience with semi-hydro yet myself -- I keep thinking that I should try it though, since it does sound interesting and others have such good experience with it. I have this one plant (a Phal bellina) which has been suffering from chronic root rot, and I wonder whether it would be a good candidate for semi-hydro. I wouldn't want to risk yet one of my plants that have been doing well in their current medium -- why fix it if it ain't broken + if something went wrong, if I understood correctly, one can move from another medium to semi-hydro, but not back again, right? Joanna "molli" wrote in message ... Frank, speaking strictly from my perspective, I've had no trouble moving phals in full bloom/spike/bud (take your pick) into semi hydro. Infact two that were in full glorious bloom when I got them are doing wonderfully. A phal I bought in tight bud, didn't miss a beat, nothing blasted, and I"m anxiously waiting for it to open so I can post pics. -- Hugs, Molli "Frank H. Kirchner" wrote in message news:gdMCb.6520$F22.160@lakeread02... I am in the process of learning how to grow in semihydroponics. I haven't yet tried it with my phals as I'm waiting for them to finish their bloom before switching over. So far, the plants I have started are really happy. All are putting out new roots and just looking happier. I tend to be an overwaterer and that problem has virtually disappeared now. I have used Ray's website for information and have purchased my supplies from him. If he wanted to write the orchid Bible, I would read it. His information has always been to the money and would encourage you to follow the directives in his website. I think you'll be happy as will your plants. Happy Holidays! Frank "The Enigma" wrote in message .com... I have been looking into growing orchids via hydroponics. What do you guys think? Any one know were I can get a small cheap system? Also grow lights for Phal? Help speed growth? Waste? What type should I get? If my orchid is blooming right now and the spike is still growing out with a small new bud should I fertilize? I got this Schultz orchid food that says 1/4 tsp for every gallon and then a book that says what ever the package says do half that amount who should I follow? Also can I add cold water to the plant or do I need to microwave it so it is lukewarm? Misting: How frequent do I mist? What part of the plant do I mist? How much should I mist? Should I have fertilizer in the mister? Watering about once a week right? How do I water, do I pour water all around the plant till I feel it's soaked then pour out the excess water in the tray? or do I add water to a tray and let it sit for 45 minutes? Or something else? Thanks Chris |
Questions from a beginning orchid grower
Joanna, I've also moved a few that hated semi hydro back to different
medium. I think Ray should be the one to chime in here, as he's had much more experience with it than I have. The in bud phal I moved to s/h was packed tight in sphag, teeny plug in the center that was rock hard. When I get plants from certain vendors, I repot immediately upon receiving them, even if they are in bud/bloom or I know they wont make it here. -- Hugs, Molli "J Fortuna" wrote in message ... Molli, Interesting. I wonder whether you were just lucky or whether people exaggerate when they say that one should avoid repotting orchids when in spike, bud or bloom. I would have thought that if orchids shouldn't be repotted when in spike, then moving them to semi-hydro when in spike should be even more risky, since if I understand correctly they need to grow completely new roots to take advantage of semi-hydro. Am I misunderstanding something? I do not have any first hand experience with semi-hydro yet myself -- I keep thinking that I should try it though, since it does sound interesting and others have such good experience with it. I have this one plant (a Phal bellina) which has been suffering from chronic root rot, and I wonder whether it would be a good candidate for semi-hydro. I wouldn't want to risk yet one of my plants that have been doing well in their current medium -- why fix it if it ain't broken + if something went wrong, if I understood correctly, one can move from another medium to semi-hydro, but not back again, right? Joanna "molli" wrote in message ... Frank, speaking strictly from my perspective, I've had no trouble moving phals in full bloom/spike/bud (take your pick) into semi hydro. Infact two that were in full glorious bloom when I got them are doing wonderfully. A phal I bought in tight bud, didn't miss a beat, nothing blasted, and I"m anxiously waiting for it to open so I can post pics. -- Hugs, Molli "Frank H. Kirchner" wrote in message news:gdMCb.6520$F22.160@lakeread02... I am in the process of learning how to grow in semihydroponics. I haven't yet tried it with my phals as I'm waiting for them to finish their bloom before switching over. So far, the plants I have started are really happy. All are putting out new roots and just looking happier. I tend to be an overwaterer and that problem has virtually disappeared now. I have used Ray's website for information and have purchased my supplies from him. If he wanted to write the orchid Bible, I would read it. His information has always been to the money and would encourage you to follow the directives in his website. I think you'll be happy as will your plants. Happy Holidays! Frank "The Enigma" wrote in message .com... I have been looking into growing orchids via hydroponics. What do you guys think? Any one know were I can get a small cheap system? Also grow lights for Phal? Help speed growth? Waste? What type should I get? If my orchid is blooming right now and the spike is still growing out with a small new bud should I fertilize? I got this Schultz orchid food that says 1/4 tsp for every gallon and then a book that says what ever the package says do half that amount who should I follow? Also can I add cold water to the plant or do I need to microwave it so it is lukewarm? Misting: How frequent do I mist? What part of the plant do I mist? How much should I mist? Should I have fertilizer in the mister? Watering about once a week right? How do I water, do I pour water all around the plant till I feel it's soaked then pour out the excess water in the tray? or do I add water to a tray and let it sit for 45 minutes? Or something else? Thanks Chris |
Questions from a beginning orchid grower
Joanna,
The degree of "shock" that a plant experiences when being transplanted is dependent o upon a number of factors, and that degree is what determines if it's enough to be a problem for the plant that is in spike, bud, or bloom. That applies to ANY repot, not just into S/H culture. For example, I used to grow a lot of phals in sphagnum, and as it can become soppy with age and compacting, moving plants from it to S/H was a walk in the park, with the plants actually perking up quite a bit afterwards, rather than suffering any. It's always possible to move a plant to- or from S/H culture, it's not that much different! -- Ray Barkalow - First Rays Orchids - www.firstrays.com Plants, Supplies, Books, Artwork, and Lots of Free Info! .. . . . . . . . . . . "J Fortuna" wrote in message ... Molli, Interesting. I wonder whether you were just lucky or whether people exaggerate when they say that one should avoid repotting orchids when in spike, bud or bloom. I would have thought that if orchids shouldn't be repotted when in spike, then moving them to semi-hydro when in spike should be even more risky, since if I understand correctly they need to grow completely new roots to take advantage of semi-hydro. Am I misunderstanding something? I do not have any first hand experience with semi-hydro yet myself -- I keep thinking that I should try it though, since it does sound interesting and others have such good experience with it. I have this one plant (a Phal bellina) which has been suffering from chronic root rot, and I wonder whether it would be a good candidate for semi-hydro. I wouldn't want to risk yet one of my plants that have been doing well in their current medium -- why fix it if it ain't broken + if something went wrong, if I understood correctly, one can move from another medium to semi-hydro, but not back again, right? Joanna "molli" wrote in message ... Frank, speaking strictly from my perspective, I've had no trouble moving phals in full bloom/spike/bud (take your pick) into semi hydro. Infact two that were in full glorious bloom when I got them are doing wonderfully. A phal I bought in tight bud, didn't miss a beat, nothing blasted, and I"m anxiously waiting for it to open so I can post pics. -- Hugs, Molli "Frank H. Kirchner" wrote in message news:gdMCb.6520$F22.160@lakeread02... I am in the process of learning how to grow in semihydroponics. I haven't yet tried it with my phals as I'm waiting for them to finish their bloom before switching over. So far, the plants I have started are really happy. All are putting out new roots and just looking happier. I tend to be an overwaterer and that problem has virtually disappeared now. I have used Ray's website for information and have purchased my supplies from him. If he wanted to write the orchid Bible, I would read it. His information has always been to the money and would encourage you to follow the directives in his website. I think you'll be happy as will your plants. Happy Holidays! Frank "The Enigma" wrote in message .com... I have been looking into growing orchids via hydroponics. What do you guys think? Any one know were I can get a small cheap system? Also grow lights for Phal? Help speed growth? Waste? What type should I get? If my orchid is blooming right now and the spike is still growing out with a small new bud should I fertilize? I got this Schultz orchid food that says 1/4 tsp for every gallon and then a book that says what ever the package says do half that amount who should I follow? Also can I add cold water to the plant or do I need to microwave it so it is lukewarm? Misting: How frequent do I mist? What part of the plant do I mist? How much should I mist? Should I have fertilizer in the mister? Watering about once a week right? How do I water, do I pour water all around the plant till I feel it's soaked then pour out the excess water in the tray? or do I add water to a tray and let it sit for 45 minutes? Or something else? Thanks Chris |
Questions from a beginning orchid grower
Thanks Ray and Molli,
Hmm. I guess I will have to seriously consider trying semi-hydro then, especially for that Phal bellina of mine that could really use a boost to perk up. Joanna "Ray" wrote in message ... Joanna, The degree of "shock" that a plant experiences when being transplanted is dependent o upon a number of factors, and that degree is what determines if it's enough to be a problem for the plant that is in spike, bud, or bloom. That applies to ANY repot, not just into S/H culture. For example, I used to grow a lot of phals in sphagnum, and as it can become soppy with age and compacting, moving plants from it to S/H was a walk in the park, with the plants actually perking up quite a bit afterwards, rather than suffering any. It's always possible to move a plant to- or from S/H culture, it's not that much different! -- Ray Barkalow - First Rays Orchids - www.firstrays.com Plants, Supplies, Books, Artwork, and Lots of Free Info! . . . . . . . . . . . "J Fortuna" wrote in message ... Molli, Interesting. I wonder whether you were just lucky or whether people exaggerate when they say that one should avoid repotting orchids when in spike, bud or bloom. I would have thought that if orchids shouldn't be repotted when in spike, then moving them to semi-hydro when in spike should be even more risky, since if I understand correctly they need to grow completely new roots to take advantage of semi-hydro. Am I misunderstanding something? I do not have any first hand experience with semi-hydro yet myself -- I keep thinking that I should try it though, since it does sound interesting and others have such good experience with it. I have this one plant (a Phal bellina) which has been suffering from chronic root rot, and I wonder whether it would be a good candidate for semi-hydro. I wouldn't want to risk yet one of my plants that have been doing well in their current medium -- why fix it if it ain't broken + if something went wrong, if I understood correctly, one can move from another medium to semi-hydro, but not back again, right? Joanna "molli" wrote in message ... Frank, speaking strictly from my perspective, I've had no trouble moving phals in full bloom/spike/bud (take your pick) into semi hydro. Infact two that were in full glorious bloom when I got them are doing wonderfully. A phal I bought in tight bud, didn't miss a beat, nothing blasted, and I"m anxiously waiting for it to open so I can post pics. -- Hugs, Molli "Frank H. Kirchner" wrote in message news:gdMCb.6520$F22.160@lakeread02... I am in the process of learning how to grow in semihydroponics. I haven't yet tried it with my phals as I'm waiting for them to finish their bloom before switching over. So far, the plants I have started are really happy. All are putting out new roots and just looking happier. I tend to be an overwaterer and that problem has virtually disappeared now. I have used Ray's website for information and have purchased my supplies from him. If he wanted to write the orchid Bible, I would read it. His information has always been to the money and would encourage you to follow the directives in his website. I think you'll be happy as will your plants. Happy Holidays! Frank "The Enigma" wrote in message .com... I have been looking into growing orchids via hydroponics. What do you guys think? Any one know were I can get a small cheap system? Also grow lights for Phal? Help speed growth? Waste? What type should I get? If my orchid is blooming right now and the spike is still growing out with a small new bud should I fertilize? I got this Schultz orchid food that says 1/4 tsp for every gallon and then a book that says what ever the package says do half that amount who should I follow? Also can I add cold water to the plant or do I need to microwave it so it is lukewarm? Misting: How frequent do I mist? What part of the plant do I mist? How much should I mist? Should I have fertilizer in the mister? Watering about once a week right? How do I water, do I pour water all around the plant till I feel it's soaked then pour out the excess water in the tray? or do I add water to a tray and let it sit for 45 minutes? Or something else? Thanks Chris |
Questions from a beginning orchid grower
There is a risk, but not a certainty, to repotting orchids in
spike/bud/bloom, that the flowers will abort. It is generally greater, the fatter the buds, but also varies among different kinds of plants, and further depends on how much you have to disturb the existing roots in order to accomplish the repotting. There also appears to be a certain amount of luck involved G. -- Kenni Judd Juno Beach Orchids http://www.jborchids.com "J Fortuna" wrote in message ... Molli, Interesting. I wonder whether you were just lucky or whether people exaggerate when they say that one should avoid repotting orchids when in spike, bud or bloom. |
Questions from a beginning orchid grower
Mines in moss. So I feel the top of the mix in the pot and it feels dry by
if I put my finger a little deeper it starts to get moist. It's been a week since I've watered it but I have misted it and I refill my well once every 2 days. When Should I water it? Thanks Chris "J Fortuna" wrote in message ... Chris, Welcome to the group and to Phals :-) Here are some answers to the best of my knowledge, which admitedly is limited, but is growing fast: Also I would encourage you to search the archives of this group http://groups.google.com/groups?grou...ardens.orchids Lots of useful advice has been given. Go to http://www.firstrays.com for information and materials for hydroponics. Do you have a window which you can place your Phal in? If so, grow lights may not be necessary for Phal, they need only low light, and too much light is not good. Me, I have to suplement the natural light with artificial, but that's only because all I have are northern windows shaded by huge trees outside, so that's too little light, but as long as you have more than that, try growing your Phals without a grow light for a while first. Only get grow lights if a) yoir Phal's leaves are too dark and it won't rebloom for you without the light; b) You want the flexibility of palcing the plant somewhere away from the window; or c) You want to get other orchids not just Phals. Opinions on how much to fertilize seem to vary, but my understanding is that either the lowest amount listed on the bottle or even half that should be enough. Too much fertilizer will be harmful, and will reduce your chance of reblooming. It's better to underfertilize than to overfertilize, just as it's better to water less frequently than to water too frequently. Water needs to be lukewarm, but not too warm. Why do you want to microwave it though? You can get lukewarm from the faucet, or put some water in a bottle and let it stand in room temp, and it will be lukewarm. I once heard that if you let the water stand, at least some of the minerals from the tap water will settle on the bottom, which may be a good thing. Misting is again a topic on which I found people are devided. One side of the debate argues that misting makes no difference, since you would have to mist constantly to make a noticable difference in humidity. Some people say that misting the leaves and roots in the morning simulates dew on the plant. Others are big fans of misting whenever they pass the plant. I have not heard anyone suggest adding fertilizer in the mister though. Most people say that it is best not to water by schedule, but rather to water when the plant needs it. If your Phal is potted in moss, touch the surface and water when the surface is dry. If it is in bark, check the weight of the pot in your hand until you can figure out how light it is when it needs water versus how heavy when just watered. Some claim this is easy, me I can't tell enough of a difference in weight to know for sure when to water, so for Phals in bark I check the weight, but also keep track of the schedule when each plant was last watered, and mostly water the big ones in bark every two weeks or so. Of course if you decide to repot in hydroponics or semi-hydro the watering schedule will change. It is best to water in the morning rather than in the evening, so that the leaves are dry by night. Pour a lot of water from above and let it drain well -- excess water should be removed from the tray, unless you have a humidity tray that is below the plant but the plant is not standing in the water. "The Enigma" wrote in message .com... I have been looking into growing orchids via hydroponics. What do you guys think? Any one know were I can get a small cheap system? Also grow lights for Phal? Help speed growth? Waste? What type should I get? If my orchid is blooming right now and the spike is still growing out with a small new bud should I fertilize? I got this Schultz orchid food that says 1/4 tsp for every gallon and then a book that says what ever the package says do half that amount who should I follow? Also can I add cold water to the plant or do I need to microwave it so it is lukewarm? Misting: How frequent do I mist? What part of the plant do I mist? How much should I mist? Should I have fertilizer in the mister? Watering about once a week right? How do I water, do I pour water all around the plant till I feel it's soaked then pour out the excess water in the tray? or do I add water to a tray and let it sit for 45 minutes? Or something else? Thanks Chris |
Questions from a beginning orchid grower
Hi, Enigma,
That is one of the qualities about moss that makes it user-friendly. When the moss is dry to the touch, then once again one needs to saturate it. This, however, is only false for deciduous orchids -- those should be misted slightly but only watered when new growth appears. .. . . Pam Everything Orchid Management System http://www.pe.net/~profpam/page3.html ----------------------------------------------------- The Enigma wrote: Mines in moss. So I feel the top of the mix in the pot and it feels dry by if I put my finger a little deeper it starts to get moist. It's been a week since I've watered it but I have misted it and I refill my well once every 2 days. When Should I water it? Thanks Chris "J Fortuna" wrote in message ... Chris, Welcome to the group and to Phals :-) Here are some answers to the best of my knowledge, which admitedly is limited, but is growing fast: Also I would encourage you to search the archives of this group http://groups.google.com/groups?grou...ardens.orchids Lots of useful advice has been given. Go to http://www.firstrays.com for information and materials for hydroponics. Do you have a window which you can place your Phal in? If so, grow lights may not be necessary for Phal, they need only low light, and too much light is not good. Me, I have to suplement the natural light with artificial, but that's only because all I have are northern windows shaded by huge trees outside, so that's too little light, but as long as you have more than that, try growing your Phals without a grow light for a while first. Only get grow lights if a) yoir Phal's leaves are too dark and it won't rebloom for you without the light; b) You want the flexibility of palcing the plant somewhere away from the window; or c) You want to get other orchids not just Phals. Opinions on how much to fertilize seem to vary, but my understanding is that either the lowest amount listed on the bottle or even half that should be enough. Too much fertilizer will be harmful, and will reduce your chance of reblooming. It's better to underfertilize than to overfertilize, just as it's better to water less frequently than to water too frequently. Water needs to be lukewarm, but not too warm. Why do you want to microwave it though? You can get lukewarm from the faucet, or put some water in a bottle and let it stand in room temp, and it will be lukewarm. I once heard that if you let the water stand, at least some of the minerals from the tap water will settle on the bottom, which may be a good thing. Misting is again a topic on which I found people are devided. One side of the debate argues that misting makes no difference, since you would have to mist constantly to make a noticable difference in humidity. Some people say that misting the leaves and roots in the morning simulates dew on the plant. Others are big fans of misting whenever they pass the plant. I have not heard anyone suggest adding fertilizer in the mister though. Most people say that it is best not to water by schedule, but rather to water when the plant needs it. If your Phal is potted in moss, touch the surface and water when the surface is dry. If it is in bark, check the weight of the pot in your hand until you can figure out how light it is when it needs water versus how heavy when just watered. Some claim this is easy, me I can't tell enough of a difference in weight to know for sure when to water, so for Phals in bark I check the weight, but also keep track of the schedule when each plant was last watered, and mostly water the big ones in bark every two weeks or so. Of course if you decide to repot in hydroponics or semi-hydro the watering schedule will change. It is best to water in the morning rather than in the evening, so that the leaves are dry by night. Pour a lot of water from above and let it drain well -- excess water should be removed from the tray, unless you have a humidity tray that is below the plant but the plant is not standing in the water. "The Enigma" wrote in message .com... I have been looking into growing orchids via hydroponics. What do you guys think? Any one know were I can get a small cheap system? Also grow lights for Phal? Help speed growth? Waste? What type should I get? If my orchid is blooming right now and the spike is still growing out with a small new bud should I fertilize? I got this Schultz orchid food that says 1/4 tsp for every gallon and then a book that says what ever the package says do half that amount who should I follow? Also can I add cold water to the plant or do I need to microwave it so it is lukewarm? Misting: How frequent do I mist? What part of the plant do I mist? How much should I mist? Should I have fertilizer in the mister? Watering about once a week right? How do I water, do I pour water all around the plant till I feel it's soaked then pour out the excess water in the tray? or do I add water to a tray and let it sit for 45 minutes? Or something else? Thanks Chris |
Questions from a beginning orchid grower
Chris,
Water when the surface of the moss is dry -- when you put the finger in deeper it should still be moist. If there is any doubt about whether the surface is dry, wait another day. Joanna "The Enigma" wrote in message .com... Mines in moss. So I feel the top of the mix in the pot and it feels dry by if I put my finger a little deeper it starts to get moist. It's been a week since I've watered it but I have misted it and I refill my well once every 2 days. When Should I water it? Thanks Chris "J Fortuna" wrote in message ... Chris, Welcome to the group and to Phals :-) Here are some answers to the best of my knowledge, which admitedly is limited, but is growing fast: Also I would encourage you to search the archives of this group http://groups.google.com/groups?grou...ardens.orchids Lots of useful advice has been given. Go to http://www.firstrays.com for information and materials for hydroponics. Do you have a window which you can place your Phal in? If so, grow lights may not be necessary for Phal, they need only low light, and too much light is not good. Me, I have to suplement the natural light with artificial, but that's only because all I have are northern windows shaded by huge trees outside, so that's too little light, but as long as you have more than that, try growing your Phals without a grow light for a while first. Only get grow lights if a) yoir Phal's leaves are too dark and it won't rebloom for you without the light; b) You want the flexibility of palcing the plant somewhere away from the window; or c) You want to get other orchids not just Phals. Opinions on how much to fertilize seem to vary, but my understanding is that either the lowest amount listed on the bottle or even half that should be enough. Too much fertilizer will be harmful, and will reduce your chance of reblooming. It's better to underfertilize than to overfertilize, just as it's better to water less frequently than to water too frequently. Water needs to be lukewarm, but not too warm. Why do you want to microwave it though? You can get lukewarm from the faucet, or put some water in a bottle and let it stand in room temp, and it will be lukewarm. I once heard that if you let the water stand, at least some of the minerals from the tap water will settle on the bottom, which may be a good thing. Misting is again a topic on which I found people are devided. One side of the debate argues that misting makes no difference, since you would have to mist constantly to make a noticable difference in humidity. Some people say that misting the leaves and roots in the morning simulates dew on the plant. Others are big fans of misting whenever they pass the plant. I have not heard anyone suggest adding fertilizer in the mister though. Most people say that it is best not to water by schedule, but rather to water when the plant needs it. If your Phal is potted in moss, touch the surface and water when the surface is dry. If it is in bark, check the weight of the pot in your hand until you can figure out how light it is when it needs water versus how heavy when just watered. Some claim this is easy, me I can't tell enough of a difference in weight to know for sure when to water, so for Phals in bark I check the weight, but also keep track of the schedule when each plant was last watered, and mostly water the big ones in bark every two weeks or so. Of course if you decide to repot in hydroponics or semi-hydro the watering schedule will change. It is best to water in the morning rather than in the evening, so that the leaves are dry by night. Pour a lot of water from above and let it drain well -- excess water should be removed from the tray, unless you have a humidity tray that is below the plant but the plant is not standing in the water. "The Enigma" wrote in message .com... I have been looking into growing orchids via hydroponics. What do you guys think? Any one know were I can get a small cheap system? Also grow lights for Phal? Help speed growth? Waste? What type should I get? If my orchid is blooming right now and the spike is still growing out with a small new bud should I fertilize? I got this Schultz orchid food that says 1/4 tsp for every gallon and then a book that says what ever the package says do half that amount who should I follow? Also can I add cold water to the plant or do I need to microwave it so it is lukewarm? Misting: How frequent do I mist? What part of the plant do I mist? How much should I mist? Should I have fertilizer in the mister? Watering about once a week right? How do I water, do I pour water all around the plant till I feel it's soaked then pour out the excess water in the tray? or do I add water to a tray and let it sit for 45 minutes? Or something else? Thanks Chris |
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