Orchiata question - Orchid Board

greenpassion · #1 09-07-2017, 02:40 PM

Hi all. I have a few phals that I've repotted in medium grade orchiata. I have them in clear pots, and on a heat mat. I've read on here that orchiata is not as absorbent as bark, and so may require more frequent watering. I have thus far been successful with my watering by checking to see if there is any condensation on the sides of the pots. Now I'm wondering if I should water more frequently, even when I see that condensation. I know about the skewer method, but for now I'd like some advise about the condensation inside a pot with a phal potted in orchiata.

estación seca · #2 09-07-2017, 02:52 PM

The condensation only tells you there is enough water inside the pot to form dew on the inner surface. It doesn't tell you whether there is any water at the roots buried in the pot. If there is condensation, the roots you can't see could be very wet or they could be completely dry.

The skewer method gives more information about the center of the pot. I would use that rather than watching condensation.

greenpassion · #3 09-07-2017, 04:07 PM

Yeah. I know your right E., and I most likely will, but one thing I don't like is gambling on whether or not I've got a root while inserting it.

estación seca · #4 09-07-2017, 04:15 PM

I think most people who use the skewer method leave it in most of the time, and only pull it out to check.

greenpassion · #5 09-07-2017, 04:44 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by estación seca

I think most people who use the skewer method leave it in most of the time, and only pull it out to check.

Yes, and in the past I have used the skewers, but it's the initial placement that I cringe over. Also after a time the skewers would break down, and I'd have to replace them. Sometimes I could get it in the exact same spot, but not always.

camille1585 · #6 09-08-2017, 04:09 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by greenpassion

Yes, and in the past I have used the skewers, but it's the initial placement that I cringe over. Also after a time the skewers would break down, and I'd have to replace them. Sometimes I could get it in the exact same spot, but not always.

If you wriggle it around as you put it in, general you can feel when it's hit a root, and can try to navigate the skewer around it.

Ray · #7 09-08-2017, 08:54 AM

Your probably OK to water more frequently. Orchiata bark is very hard, and doesn't decompose quickly like most other types.