Quote:
Originally Posted by greenpassion
I am surprised to hear that the smaller size holds moisture longer. You'd think the larger the chunk, the more water it'd hold. Perhaps it's the density in using the smaller size that is the reason?
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I don't think it's too surprising. Larger chunks of bark won't fit together as closely, and will leave larger gaps of air between the individual chunks. More air pockets = better air circulation, and so drying out the medium at a faster rate. Smaller sized bark won't have as large air pockets between the pieces, it's generally more densely packed in the pot.
About heating mats and Phals, I think there is some confusion between air temperature and root zone temperature. It's true that most hybrid Phals will tolerate much a lower air temperature than species. However, pretty much all Phals appreciate a warm root zone, which explains why Phals gernally don't do as well in S/H culture in cooler climates. The evaporative cooling in S/H makes it a bit too chilly for the roots.
I think that Phals will grow happily without a heat mat (mine do), but I view heat mats as a way to turn the growing conditions from 'well suited' to 'optimal', particularily for warm loving species and seedlings. For a couple years I lived in an apartment which had radiators directly under the windowsill, which kept it warm. I noticed a huge difference in my Phals those 2 winters- they were in active growth far longer than when I didn't have that botton heating.
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