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What is the ideal vase for my orchid?
There are many options for pots that can be used for growing orchids, but before continuing to write, perhaps the most important tip is: "try to standardize the type of vase". If you use different pots, keep in mind that the time for them to dry is different, and this will already make it difficult to do a good irrigation (while some will be dry, others will still be soaked).
The type and size of the vase is one of the tips of the strategy to prevent the orchid from getting soaked, but also not drying out too quickly. In this way, if you use a substrate that maintains a lot of humidity, you can counterbalance it with a type of vase that facilitates drying and vice versa.
What is the best vase size?
Here many are waiting for a simple and direct answer.
First, you need to know the type of orchid you are going to plant. Larger pots take longer to dry, is that what your orchid wants? for some species this will be perfect, for others it will be possibly death. Another thing you need to think about when choosing the size of the pot is the type of substrate you are going to use. Looking at the size of the plant and keeping in mind its growth speed, you must use a vase that allows the plant to grow until the next substrate change. So, if your substrate is going to last two years, choose a pot that will allow the plant to grow for two years without leaving the pot.
What is the ideal vase depth?
Here the most rational thought is in relation to the drying time of the vase. If you use a very large pot, it might be better to make it shallower so that it dries out without harming root development.
We also have the case of the Cymbibium vase (a very common species to be found for sale in supermarkets and flower shops), this species likes very deep vases to develop.
Types of pots for orchids
Ceramic Vases
They are preferred by the majority of orchidists. Traditionally, clay pots have been used since the beginning of orchidophilia. They are an interesting option for those who grow plants in the weather, in the rain.
BENEFITS: greater drainage and aeration of the roots
DISADVANTAGES: they are heavier, greater retention of fertilizer salts
Plastic Vases
There are myriad options in plastic pots, from the common conical pots that are used for violets and chrysanthemums, to pot designs that are uniquely designed for orchids, aiming for greater aeration of the roots.
BENEFITS: Low cost, lower salt retention, easier to transplant, easier to reuse, easier to find
DISADVANTAGES: retains more moisture.
It also has the advantage of being easy to make holes on the sides if you want to increase the aeration of the roots.
vaso plastico 5
vaso plastico 4
vaso plastico 1
vaso plastico 5
cachepot
Is one of the most popular options in recent years. There are already options on the market for cachepots made with non-machin wood (high-density plastic) that are more durable.
BENEFITS: great aeration of the roots, which for some species (aclandiaes, schillerianas...) is a fundamental aspect for successful cultivation.
DISADVANTAGE: the moment of transplanting tends to be a dramatic moment, since there is usually a great destruction of roots to release the plant from the cachepot.
coconut fiber vases
Many people believe that pressed coconut fiber vases are a perfect replacement for the old and forbidden tree fern vases. Unfortunately, however, the glue used to shape the pots is toxic to orchids.
You will notice that the roots simply dry the tip when they touch the wall of the vase and this will limit the good development and flowering of your orchid.
So, I can only not recommend the use of this type of vase.
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