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Semi-hydroponics, or S/H, uses inert medium of marble to pea sized porous rock instead of
organic medium such as bark traditionally used for growing orchids. The pots used for S/H are
unique as well. They are made of opaque plastic with two holes approximately an inch above the
bottom of the pot. This space formed between the holes and the bottom of the pot forms a
reservoir. The medium absorbs water from the reservoir bottom via capillary action, similar to
the absorbing action of a sponge. This maintains constant moisture for days, keeping the correct
amount of water available at the roots and increases the humidity around the plant. By adding
liquid fertilizer to the water, the orchid has all it needs to thrive. The reservoir provides a
continuous optimum supply of water and nutrients. The only maintenance is watering when the
reservoir level drops low. Eternal Orchid's pre-mixed bottle of water and fertilizer makes caring
for the orchids a simple one-minute process one to two times a week
Once a month, the medium requires soaking achieved by filling the container to the top and
allowing the excess to quickly drain off through the two holes in the container located about one
inch from the bottom. It is recommended that this is done over the sink or in the bathtub
because the excess water will run out of the two holes near the bottom of the pot. However, if
you rent for a month or less, you do not have to perform the soaking. All you need to do is add
the water/fertilizer mixture once or twice a week.
Using the S/H type of potting gives you the freedom of being able to leave your orchid for
periods of time or makes it very easy for others to care for it in your absence. This ease and
peace of mind is part of the exceptional value offered by Eternal Orchids arrangements.
For plants that are purchased, S/H offers its greatest advantage. As with any healthy and
thriving plant, the orchid will grow and eventually become too large for its original container.
With conventional organic medium, the bark must be gently and carefully removed from the
roots, and a fresh sterile batch of bark must be prepared for the new pot. Fresh medium is
required to avoid the introduction of potentially harmful bacteria and fungus that grows in the wet
bark. Over time, the organic medium simply decomposes. However, because S/H is inert,
there is no deterioration of the medium. Repotting simply consists of lifting the orchid out of its
pot, placing it in a larger one, and adding more medium. Over time, S/H will provide substantial
savings in reduced medium consumption.
Whether you are a novice or an expert, renting or purchasing an arrangement, it is easy to see
that Eternal Orchid's unique growing method makes caring for your new acquisition a snap!
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