FAQ's -
Repotting Orchids into Hydroponics

Can any orchid grow in this Hydroponic System?

Any orchid that grows in a pot will grow in our system. 

Technically, orchids can be clasified into two groups; terrestrial (orchids that grow in leaves and debri on the forest floor), and epiphytic (orchids that hang from trees and grow in the open air with their roots exposed). Terrestrial orchids, those that grow in the ground, are commonly grown in pots. These types of orchids do very well in our hydroponic system.

Epiphytic orchids, or plants that grow in the air, are usually mounted on wood slabs or grown in slated baskets without any potting media. Because these plants are not adapted to growing in pots (of any kind) they're not good candidates for hydroponics.

How does one system work for all orchids?

The capillary properties or wicking action of the LECA pebbles works the same with any plant. That means you can have confidence in your watering schedule because once you become familiar with our system you'll know exactly what's going on inside the pot at the roots.

Some orchids prefer dry periods between waterings (Cattleya, Dendrobium, etc.), For these plants simply adjust your watering schedule to wait a little longer between waterings, creating a dry period between waterings so the roots can get air.

Once your plant adapts to hydroponics, the system is very forgiving. Your watering routine gets much easier because the water gauge eliminates the guesswork.

When is the best time for transplanting?

The best time for transplanting is after the blooms have faded. Don't try transplanting when the orchid is blooming. If your plant refuses to bloom - the best time for transplanting to hydroponics might be right now!

What supplies do I need to transfer my orchids to hydroponics?

Our Hydroponic Starter Sets is where to begin. They have everything you'll need (including instructions) for transfering two plants to hydroponics. After you gain some experience with our system, we have a complete line of individual components to choose from for the rest of your plants.

What size pot should I use?

When transplanting into hydroponics we suggest using a pot the same size or slightly smaller than the existing pot. Pot size is important with orchids because you want to establish a good wet/dry cycle. If the pot is too big the roots stay wet too long and orchids don't like wet feet.

Another guide is the size of the plant's root system after all the bad roots have been pruned away. The remaining healthy roots should fit snuggley in the new pot. 

Does transplanting vary with different types of orchids?

The transplanting process is similar for all orchids. Simply remove all the existing  potting materials, trim away bad roots, and plant into our system. 

Orchid care after transplanting is different however. It's important to know what type of orchid you're working with. Some orchids require longer dry periods between waterings (Cattleya, Dendrobium, etc.). Others need more constant moisture (Paphiopedilum, Phaleanopsis, etc.). Don't worry, we have instructions to help guide you through.

How will I know if my new transplant is doing well?

Always look for new growth. Another good indicator is how quickly the nutrient solution in the system is used up. Active plants will usually need water every two weeks. If you're new to orchids, have patience. Orchids move slowly - don't try force them.

When I removed the orchid from its old pot it didn't have many roots. Will it still grow?

Unlike houseplants, orchids don't need many roots to stay alive. So if your new transplant has only a few healthy roots, don't worry. Remove all the bad roots and give your plant a fresh start in our hydroponic system.

Hold back on the water with plants that have under developed root systems. New roots need air as much as they need water to grow.

My orchids never bloom! Will hydroponics make them flower?

Probably not. Light and temperature initiate the flowering cycle. Without adequate light and proper temperature variations, your plant won't bloom no matter what you do!

Go to FAQ's - Growing Orchids in Hydroponics for more.