Question concerning s/h - Orchid Board

wallyworld · #1 (**permalink**) 11-09-2006, 11:49 AM

Since I am trying this out, I have a few questions concerning fertilizing. I normally water my orchids at 125ppm of N during all my watering stations. I fertilize at every watering and what I am concerned with is with salt buildup. Should I use a flush time with no fertilizer at all? I had problems with lava rock with salt buildup and I am hoping that this will be better. I soaked the stones with KLN for a day before planting, should I increase the use of KLN? I use it on my vandas about once a month and what rates should I use?

ScottMcC · #2 (**permalink**) 11-09-2006, 01:10 PM

I have not had a problem at all with salt buildup.

The key is the watering technique...every time you water you need to completely fill the pot to the brim, and then allow it to drain out--you can't just "top off" the reservoir. With the bigger pots this will likely mean covering the holes with your finger. This effectively flushes out the reservoir completely, and prevents buildup of badness. By the way, every watering is with 125 ppm MSU in Chicago tap water.

I don't use KLN on a regular basis, but every now and then I'll sprinkle a drop or two in with my watering. For presoak of the primeagra I use about 1-2 tsp/gallon.

Ross · #3 (**permalink**) 11-09-2006, 03:38 PM

This is VERY useful for me! I plan to start S/H later this winter (after my Hawaii trip) Scott: If I use R.O. water with Jungle mix do I have to flush? (Not sure you have experience with this but thought I'd try) I realize women want us to flush every time, but that's another issue

wallyworld · #4 (**permalink**) 11-09-2006, 04:28 PM

Thanks Scott...I like it so far, I just have to get used to watering like that...LOL How long have you been using it? I want to get away from repotting as much as I do now with my present mix. I have some of my cats in the vanda room and I water quite often in there. I am just wanting to find something that can take watering as much as I do and place more of the cats in the shaderoom.

ScottMcC · #5 (**permalink**) 11-09-2006, 08:11 PM

yes, you have to flush. the reason is that the stuff that's in the reservoir changes composition quite greatly as water is taken up by the plant (leaving some amount of unused fertilizer behind), waste products are given off into it, etc. So if you don't flush, it's kinda like not flushing the toilet. and that's bad.

I'm no expert on s/h though...I've long been doing it since the summer!

Ross · #6 (**permalink**) 11-09-2006, 10:16 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ScottMcC

So if you don't flush, it's kinda like not flushing the toilet. and that's bad.

Yeah that's what I meant! Whew! It builds up.

Tindomul · #7 (**permalink**) 11-10-2006, 12:04 AM

I also flush the way Scott describes every other week. Very important to keep the roots from accumulating salts.

wallyworld · #8 (**permalink**) 11-10-2006, 12:16 AM

Thanks all...I will have to be careful concerning the salts then

I want to thank everyone for their input.

20jlr · #9 (**permalink**) 11-10-2006, 10:13 AM

I ave benn using s/h for 1 1/2 Years. It works wonder's if you follow Ray's advice. I too use 125 ppm msu fert(from Ray) and cover the holes to flush each watering. Great big healthy roots. It's the only way I have done it so I can't speak for other ways to water but it works well for me.

Tindomul · #10 (**permalink**) 11-10-2006, 11:04 PM

What concentrations do you use if you use distilled water? I have been using 50ppm. per gallon.