Easy care setup for present

[tokyo]

Thanks for the input!

There is only going to be one planter. The only reason I am going this route rather than a standard S/H planter is that I want watering to be few and far between. If it was for me it wouldn't be an issue. But my girlfriend is forgetful and I don't want the plant dying on her. At least this way she will have plenty of time to refill the water reservoir before it becomes an issue.

The drawing was a crude example of the idea I am working with. The actual system will be contained and not quite so bulky, so it will look nice.

Originally Posted by Undergrounder

The wick isn't necessary because the LECA wicks. Ordinary organic potting media would break down under constant moisture introducing rot and suffocating the roots. Hence the requirement for an inert, inorganic media with all hydro/semi-hydro systems.

I understand that the wick isn't necessary if your using the LECA. I'm talking about in standard orchid potting mix.

Why would the organic potting media break down any faster than if just keeping it constantly moist(requirement of Paph.s) through regular waterings?

[Undergrounder]

Originally Posted by tokyo

Thanks for the input!

Why would the organic potting media break down any faster than if just keeping it constantly moist(requirement of Paph.s) through regular waterings?

In general, constant moisture and organic media are to be avoided if you can. Any kind of break down of the media is going to be bad. I wouldn't actually recommend keeping Paph mix constantly moist, but Paphs aren't my thing anyway. If you want to use a constant moisture system, go as inorganic as you can.

P.S. I actually use both systems. For my larger plants, introduced plants and breeding plants i use the S/H system with a modified double pot setup. This is to contain potential virus, which is more prevalent in older plants.

http://img10.imageshack.us/img10/5025/84781952.jpg