Hydroculture for Orchids

Basic Principles

• Hydroculture involves an automated system to keep water circulating past the roots. Most species of orchids will rot if left even in running water -- so after a drench, the water is allowed to drain away completely. Then the pump turns on again and the water runs past the root zone. Nutrients essential to orchid growth and development are added to the water, a nutrient-rich solution.

Variations

• The timing of the flood and drain cycle is critical. If performed too often, the roots will rot, and they'll dry out if it's done too infrequently. The amount and type of media used varies by species as well, but all media in these systems are chosen for low decomposition rates to keep excess nutrients from entering the nutrient solution and/or clogging the water pump.

Basic Equipment

• Hydroculture systems require a nutrient-solution tank, where the water is held between floods and the solution is mixed and tested. A timer system and a water pump with hoses to transfer water to where it needs to be is essential, as is a tray to hold the potted orchids. Orchids are planted in pots and orchid planting media. Sufficient water and easy access to refill the water is vital, as is proper water-based or water-soluble nutrient solution specifically for growing orchids in hydroculture.

Considerations

• Most orchids do not need hydroculture to thrive. Indeed, hydroculture is typically reserved for growing several orchids, considering the time, expense and complexity of some hydroculture systems. Two species of orchids that thrive best in these systems, however, are Disa spp. and Phragmipedium spp.