Hi everyone, I'm Annabel, and welcome to my channel! :-)
In this video we are going to be discussing semi-hydroponics with LECA, and self-watering with LECA, as a growing method for orchids, the good and bad aspects, and my thoughts on growing orchids in it after a couple of years.
I currently keep Cattleyas, Phalaenopsis (species and complex hybrids), Rhynchostylis and a couple of Oncidiums in Semi-hydro or self-watering with LECA. My Paphiopedilum and Oncidium Sharry Baby both have Seramis mixed with the LECA to create a more moist top layer.
I definitely recommend checking out First Rays LLC website for more detailed information on this method if you are interested in the subject:
https://firstrays.com/semi-hydroponic-culture/general-semi-hydroponics-information/semi-hydroponics-basics/
If you would like to check out the repotting video for my Rhynchostylis Gigantea, for some background and a look at the root system:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wr96t06JhZg&t=18s
Or the repotting for my ‘Cambria’ and more info on issues with Oncidiums/Miltoniopsis in LECA:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QWjkLi_LKts&t=4s
Let me know if you have any questions down below!
Thanks for watching! :-)
My Orchid Room
Temps- 18-30C
Humidity 60-75%.
Artificial lighting supplemented with daylight.
Wire shelving, Hartleys direct: https://www.hartleysdirect.com/hartleys-180cm-5-tier-adjustable-wire-shelving-unit.html
Metal shelving IKEA: https://www.ikea.com/gb/en/products/storage-furniture/shelving-units-systems/mulig-shelving-unit-white-art-60224163/
Artificial lighting supplemented with natural light.
GEMMA LED grow lights: https://www.gemma-led.com/cob-grow-light-50w-watt
GEMMA have kindly provided a 10% off discount code for anyone who is interested in purchasing any of their lights! This is valid until 01/01/21. Just pop OrchidRoom in at the checkout :-)
Cool white '6000K' under cabinet lighting- Screwfix
DIY Self watering pots, DIY Semi hydro pots
DIY Self watering pots made with IKEA Nekjon outer mask https://www.ikea.com/gb/en/products/decoration/plants-pots-stands/nejkon-plant-pot-white-art-80285792/ and various 15cm clear internal orchid pot
Wick for self watering pots https://www.amazon.co.uk/watering-Self-watering-Automatic-Watering-Irrigation/dp/B07D22DFH5
DIY semi hydro pots, various brands. Square pots used from https://www.oasishomeandhobby.co.uk/searchanise/result?q=acrylic+cube with semi hydro holes drilled in for reservoir.
Self watering pots with water level gauge: Lechuza mini deltini https://www.amazon.co.uk/Lechuza-Premiuim-Deltini-Watering-Houseplant/dp/B00I5R3F7K/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=mini+deltini&qid=1558605309&s=outdoors&sr=1-1-catcorr
or other brand: https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B07FRQ22Q1/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Mini USB fans from Amazon: https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B014WT8L32/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
LECA Canna Aqua Brand or IKEA https://www.amazon.co.uk/Hydrogarden-Canna-45L-AquaClay-Bag/dp/B003Y7M6B2/ref=pd_rhf_ee_s_rp_c_0_3/257-2940821-3190024?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B003Y7M6B2&pd_rd_r=3dd90828-be25-4f7d-845b-6566e9f9d245&pd_rd_w=Pcf2A&pd_rd_wg=KeRZA&pf_rd_p=be6d562a-9dbf-4e22-ab1d-83792c9c988d&pf_rd_r=RK8TWMHMQ5JQV6ANACAY&psc=1&refRID=RK8TWMHMQ5JQV6ANACAY
Sphagnum moss by Besgrow
Vanda baskets purchased from Roellke Orchideen and Peter White Orchid accessories
Find me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/annabel.minton/
Be sure to look out for more care tutorials to follow! Please post suggestions and questions in the comments! I'm really happy to chat to fellow orchid lovers and hope you've enjoyed this video :-)
Thanks for watching! :-)