No, Mr. Rick you're not coming off aggressive or rambling at all. I am learning so much from your videos because I also like to know why something works the way it does. You are wealth of information and your voice is so calming. Thank you so much for sharing your orchid knowledge. It's been 2yrs. since you made this video so, I pray all is well w/you and your wife and your health. God bless y'all!!😇
Please Rick, keep rumbling. You are a great teacher, I am soaking your wisdom and admire how you explain the reasons behind the biological and chemical processes occurring in the plants. . You are truly teaching us to fish instead of giving us a fish. Thank you, thank you!
You might think that you are rambling, Rick, but what comes out of your mouth is to us, what calcium is to a plant! Your "ramblings" are your stacked up years of knowledge and experience giving us the building blocks to confidently form our own questions, to wonder and imagine without censor as we gather more information to help solve those questions. So far, this site, with all of your kind and curious viewers, along with your "rambling" fountain of knowledge has really helped me learn soooooo much! I love reading your subscribers questions and learning from all of you! This is one of my favorite classrooms EVER!
You keep calling your teaching rambling but you have been such a blessing to me and have taught me more about orchids in the passed few days than all the videos I've watched the past few months. (I've been binge watching all your videos) and have enjoyed it so much. I have short term memory problems, but I'm making notes lol... thank you so much for sharing all your knowledge. Sending prayers
…...right there with you Patty...….my Parkinsons has really hit my memory hard......but with gods healing hands and support of such kind people as yourself......we will do fine....let me know if ever I can repeat something for you....
So, I am watching all your videos, and besides learning tons of information I am thinking: look at this man, he is got something to say. I can't help but compare you to all the charlatans on TV and social medias, and I feel gratefull that one day you started this channel. What a difference it makes. Cheers from Argentina.
Very informative as usual. Please keep em coming and don't change anything. Thank you so much for all that you do, just know that it is appreciated very much. Take care of yourself and happy growing!
Hi Rick, I'm enjoying watching your videos and find them very informative. Please don't apologize because your attitude has been nothing but helpful and pleasant. All the very best.
Ramble all you want. I've learned so much from your videos. Roots, roots, Wet, Dry and calcium. My orchids are doing so much better and yes, my roots are going crazy!
Thanks Rick! wow great information..Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge. You're giving us a gift from your heart. Wishing you many blessings and prayers.
Dear Rick, I pray for your good health, and I'm sure you are gonna be amongst us doing these lovely work on your channel for many more years to come. Stay blessed always
Thank Rick for a beautiful video I love to see your plantas so clean and healthy .... I’m not sure If I’m understanding everything but I’m trying. Thank again 😃👍🏼
I use baked and crushed to powder egg 🥚 shells once a month and regular orchid food about 1 or twice a month I’ve just been learning for about 2 years now I have about 30 orchids. Thank you for the information very helpful thank you 💗
Dear Rick thank you!, your teachings r the best, sharing your experiences brings knowledge and useful information. Plants show us all the time the circle of life... beginning - end... the most important is what we do in between... Rick your passion and care enlightens...keep going We thank you so much 🤗😘
I would listen to you rambling all day Rick, because I learn something new each time you produce a video and I think most growers would agree with you, your plants are showing signs of great results by your methods of providing calcium and additional nutrients throughout the growing season which is obviously beneficial to all types of orchids which are kept outside their natural environment. Well done in your explanation & presentation. Keep the videos coming.
Rick, you are not in the slightest bit aggressive, you are passionate which is different. I just loved this video...its helped my understanding a lot. Thank you Thank you 😊
Dear Rick, this is One Great Teaching Video! I was captivated through the entire talk, did not want it to end, and I don't even grow orchids! It could be that I completely agree with your approach to understanding the 'Why' of how nutrients work for a plant. Understanding a plant's natural environment is important to success & healthy plants like yours - I apply your principals to my AV species which are so different from hybrids. Your style of sharing what you have learned really works for me, and it looks like for many others as well. Can hardly wait for the next video, I might have to acquire at least one orchid soon!
I absolutely love all the information you are sharing! I binge-watched all your videos like a week ago and learned so much from you. It made me rethink lots of things I thought I knew about orchids and just growing in general. Thank you so much Rick, love your videos! ❤️
I am watching this for the fourth time. ... i learn or should I say that I memorizing what you are teaching us on this video and all of your videos,!!! I wish you and Jan times to be in the presence of your love for each other. .... and I wish you could come back to us because I think of questions I woild like your answer to ... but as I ponder the question I would ask. ... i can almost hear your thoughts so as agreat teacher you have given me the skills to find out the answer using the knowledge you have given me!! God bless you and thanks again for this treasure trove of videos!!!
Not rambling, another great video Ricky and your enthusiasm for orchid growing enthuses us even more! Perfectly logical and I really don’t want my orchids to use up their reserves, (where this applies). I have had a spike that has died back this year, and a few buds on some spikes turn yellow and fall off instead of maturing. I always transition all my orchids to water culture immediately I get them and don’t let them sit in bark or moss a day. As I’ve start using U.K. equivalent of Cal Mag, and fertilising using a TDS meter, I’m hoping next year the conditions I mentioned above won’t occur again 🤞🤞🤞
Watching this again. I remove my newly purchased orchids from it's pots when I get home. It's amazing how rotten and soggy the roots can be. Some will break into pieces because it's rotting. My depot store moved their orchids indoor and now when you remove it, it's bone dry and brittle roots. Watching videos on nutrition is so important and I have learned a lot. Thank you!
You scream and yell as much as you like - I now have a whole new thing to research - this 'hormone thing' - BUGGER - more work but I will ALWAYS have that thirst - the more you know, the better you grow! And the learning never stops. I wish you well and I hope you can pass on as much of this stuff as possible and I hope folks REALLY appreciate what you do/say for us. Keep well and take care and now, thinking of a possible future, I'm getting all emotional - not like me at all.
This last Winter has been my most successful with the resting type Dendrobiums and I can now say that in my environment, getting blooms is not so much about 'how dry' but is more about how bright and how cool. I have high air humidity and so the plants are never really bone dry even though I stop feeding and reduce watering. But this Winter, they got full sun (no shading at all) and 2C lower than last Winter - down to a night temp of 12C as opposed to 14C in previous Winters and all have bloomed (or have loads of buds). Also, it's not so much the 'actual' low night temps as the 'difference' as the plants go into December. I am now convinced that it is the high light levels and the low night temps that does the trick and watering or not is of less importance. I think a 'book burning' is in order!!!
....yes and no.......your correct that the light and the cool period is critical, especially differentials of night and day, because it helps to trigger hormone production.......but the dehydration caused by the lack of rain .....concentrates the hormones......the more hormones concentrated the better the bloom season......that's why synthetic Gibberelins /cytokinin's...plant hormones ....are used to increase blooms for the commercial market....the more light the more sugar production....feeds the whole process.......but yes..lol....it does make you think about the books written...
Hi Rick, there is ABSOLUTELY NOTHING WRONG with your old videos. No reason for you to "hate" them or to redoo them . They are very nice. Lovely indeed. So please do not critizise yourself for them and leave everything as it is. :-)) Do not think about the reactions that "beeing you" will create in others. Because there will always be 1/3rd of the people that like us a lot, 1/3rd will feel indifferent about us. And 1/3rd will have another "wave-length." :-)) So be happy and follow your heart.:-))
Also worth remembering as you so rightly point out, where these plants grow they 'get what they are given' - but again, is that by 'choice' or just because that's the way it is where they live? There is a BIG difference between getting some moisture from dew and mist/fog and when the rains return and start washing in all those nutrients! I wish I could say all these things as well as you do - it's all in my head but it seems to come out 'jumbled'. Bottom line, the blooms on these resting types can be produced from 'reserves' but growth starts when the rains come. (Sorry but these comments are getting typed as I watch - and I'm getting so excited, I'm posting as I think)
Roger, quit saying you don’t explain as good. You do and I think you should do more. You and Rick have taught me so much and I am so grateful for this. You two are the “bomb bo diddy” lol 😂 seriously you two are awesome!
I agree 100%!!! I am learning so much from you both! This is what I love to do in my free time (not much of that) and your videos have poured so much information and energy into me.... I bought a house a year ago that had a covered open patio so I could build my dream garden / orchid room. It is enclosed now with picture windows and French doors. I have over 100 orchids and your information has been priceless in my pursuit of orchid love. Rick, I will continue to pray for your health issues. All I can say is thank you from the bottom of my heart and God bless you both....💕
Very interesting stuff. I introdused extra magnesium to my orchids and the difference is amazing. The root growth, the colour of the leaves all improved. I haven't been able to find calcium or cal mag here but I will start trying to source it soon when my finances allow me to. Thankyou again for the information
Hey Rick! New subscriber here! I love your videos. They are so informative and helpful and I enjoy all the rambling. It just shows your passion for growing orchids. I’m currently growing several different genera and I’m up to 58 orchids in the collection but they only account for 1/4th of the plants that I grow inside my house. My appetite for information on growing is never ending. Thanks for providing excellent knowledge on growing these beauties!
Amazing video! That will help a LOT of people! This kind of makes sense to me why my orchids don't stop growing in the winter, they have permanent supply of all nutrients, mobile and imobile... Of course, for some Dendrobium orchids in order to induce blooms we still need to stop fertilizing, but that is ok! Thank you for sharing!
Great video! Really enjoy your "yelling at us". LOL!!!! You do NOT do that!. My age old brain his it's own rational, from years ago, as to what causes kiki's on Phals, Dems, etc. It'll be really interesting to hear your take. I should say facts explained as to why. Thanks for this thought provoking video! Enjoy the spring.
Hey Rick......thanks for the short out......I just water with some calcium. I love how you explain things, you do such a good job of it. You are not scream at us, you are enthusiastic and excited that's how you come across to me
Very thought provoking. You got me thinking again and usually I'm happy with the results of me pondering what you say! Improvements are usually the result of watching your videos. Thanks for another great video. Love learning from you! So the burning we see on leaves, roots etc can be because although the nutrients are there, insufficient calcium slows down growth and all those nutrients have no where to go because without proper calcium the growth slows down or even stalls. So the excess of nutrients build up and burn the structures. Never though of it this way. So interesting! I feel the same way about some of my old videos. I get passionate about what I'm talking about and if I ever watch them myself I cringe because I think it comes off differently then I intended. I'm trying to be better about that.
......yes, the nutrients can build up and cause die back......but even with a lot of Ca available.......if the ph is too low they cant absorb it.....more than one reason why......your a great grower, you have the green heart.......your finding your way as I am....thank you.....
Lovely, healthy looking plants. I only have one orchid I received from a friend that has little roots but I'm trying to save it in my house, no greenhouse! I love your videos. Thank you.
I don’t consider your talks on orchid nutrients rambling at all. Although my orchids seem to be doing well I don’t really have a clear understanding about their nutrient needs except what is on my MSU container. I hope that you will continue educating us many times! I love this hobby and am amazed what I’ve learned from videos such as yours over the past couple of years. Thank you for sharing and wishing you good health!
You are amazing. Your ALS isn't what controls your life span. Only God controls that. I know the ALS is controlling some of your abilities, but you aren't going anywhere, 1 day before God says it is time. I do appreciate your outlook. I know you have dealt with this for a long time. You are strong, you are positive and you have an abundance of knowledge that you have shared with us. I so much, appreciate it. Still praying for you brother.
Great info, I'm waiting for my cal/mag to be delivered :) I've been thinking about adding it for awhile now and ordered it a few days ago, SO curious to try it. My fertilizer has some calcium in it (2%) but I'm curious to see what adding an extra feeding of just the cal-mag will do. I don't have die-off or black root tips but I think the new growths and leaves, especially on my cattleyas could be a lot stronger. Thank you.
Hello,Rick! Thank you so much for sharing such an informative video. Could you write the names of your beautiful dendrophals? I liked them very much. Thank you.
Rick L. Thank you for sharing your knowledge about ph levels and immobile nutrients (video time 18:00-22:35). Ramble all you need to, because I listen to every video you post three or four times, and I don't mind it at all. Since I do not have Mr. Jackson as a driftwood supplier, can I use types of wood purchased from Home Depot or LOWE'S to mount orchids? And, where do you buy clay pots with holes for your orchids? With fingers crossed, I will wait for your answers. Thank you for fueling my interest in growing orchids. Date: April 7, 2018
thank you my friend.....yes cedar, oak,, cypress, hickory, can all be used for orchids......green tree wood is fine also, they grow on green live wood usually. A fresh cut limb from a tree will work even....doesn't have to be dead or driftwood....
Rick L. You are just wonderful! Wonderful! Wonderful! I'm another one of your UA-cam followers who would wait hours in line just to shake your hand. People like you are the salt of the earth. ANY video you send will be welcome. Thank you so much. Date: April 8, 2018
Oh, wow! Mister, I have so much of that in my yard. I'll be sure to spray wood pieces with hydrogen peroxide before attaching an orchid. You have set this old girl out on the right road now! Thank you a thousand times! Date: April 8, 2018
Hi Rick! I'm about halfway through your video and just brainstorming/rambling out loud. I was thinking about potential calcium sources for orchids that are growing attached to trees in the wild. And the correlation of growth being triggered in the spring. I think what makes orchids so complicated for us is that their (the Orchids that is) relationship with their unique environments is so subtle, nuanced and complicated. And the orchids' evolution is simultaneous and intertwined with everything from their neighborhood fungi, to other plants to bugs and birds and mammals in the area but I digress. So I was thinking about a potential source of calcium in the spring time. Do you think it's possible that certain species of birds lay eggs, the chicks hatch and then the rains run through nests and onto the orchids and signal their growth somehow that way? Between the acidity of tanins and bird droppings and perhaps bird hormones and the calcium from the eggshells themselves? maybe it's the perfect chemical setting for the orchids to restart growth in the wild? Anyways I should probably quit while I'm ahead because I'm not a scientist and have only been growing orchids for about 10 months. Also I have to finish listening to this video. I always appreciate your videos and your thoughts make me think and want to understand things. Have a wonderful day!
.....very interesting, but your correct in a way......its all those things, including a birds nest and egg shells.......trees pull massive amounts of Calcium to build trunks branches etc......so they have a source available built into them.....live bark, contains more Ca than dead bark....
Rick L. Orchids so interesting! I had no idea that orchids derived nutrition from live bark, I kinda assumed they were happy little epiphytes who occasionally resided on trees but are they perhaps a little parasitic (as opposed to passively absorbing the occasional wave of nutrients washing over them)? Anyways I'm rambling, but I just love that I always learn something new and have something new to think about every time I see a video from you. Have a wonderful evening!
Have to say I loved this video!!! It was longer and if you want to call it rambling then so be it. Lot's and lot's of info. I wouldn't change a thing. About the dot thing, you may laugh, but I thought it was because with modern technology no one shows faces, so sometimes we misread a person's intent. Of course I am used to the disabled like the autistic with no facial expressions for their intent, so all good. As for yelling, haven't noticed unless your spring birds get so loud that they steal the show, like that other video. At those times you may have to compete ha!ha! Now it's my turn to ramble. I found some extremely attractive wood that I just loved the look of so couldn't leave it there at a newly opened Lowe's. Of all places it was in the grilling department. Yes, my husband thought it was for food and knew it's too cold for that here right now. Well, I just let him know that it was not for food. We don't have a Mr Jackson ha!ha! Still in the package for now, but I admire it daily. It's cross cut white cedar and looks phenomenal!!! Would like to try to mount something, absorbs water 20 times water so for now I am admiring it the package. Just want to let you know that you and yours are always in my thoughts and always wish you well. What a trek this thing we call life is. If it wasn't hard, it wouldn't be worth it!!! Just a quick question if you don't mind, might be off topic, but could you explain in layman's terms about water buffering capacity. Thanks so much my friend. Baseball season coming soon for your grandson. You have to go see those games!!!. Also are your Venus flytraps out of the fridge yet. Stay well my friend. Wish I were closer to help, but I am so north and west on another continent, that only some weather patterns cross. I don't expect an answer if it's hard for you. Really hoping though that you are still up to it??? Thanks again my friend.
Your so kind Rose thank you......baseball practice has already begun.....I love it...and you offer to help is too kind, thanks....white cedar should be fine.....must be for smoking salmon?.....watering buffering?......not sure what you mean..?
Rick L. Orchids Thanks for your reply. So glad to hear that baseball practice already started and you are able to enjoy watching it. Yes, you are right, these slabs are for grilling and smoking the food, but instead of those cedar planks, they are cross cut white cedar with the bark still surrounding it and the beautiful rings and inside of the tree visible. The package states that you get each tree's unique flavor by utilizing all the tree's cells. It's these cells that deliver nutrients from the roots to the leaves. And the package also states that cross cut planks whether hardwood or softwood absorb liquids approximately 20 times faster than a normal lumber cut plank. The result is a slow release of natural flavor into your food. There, I wrote what the package states. Whew!!! Nice 2 pack. Just need the courage to try to mount one of my orchids and decide which one I should try. My question about water buffering capacity came about from looking at the hydroponics nutrients and reading people's reviews both negative and positive, and the complaints of too much ph drop and too acidic. Then there was mention of the water source used like RO , distilled etc... So talk was about water buffering capacity??? Was pondering trying a small hydroponic set up maybe try some lettuce. Maybe this stuff might be over my head, but I had some interest. Thanks again and take care.
Rose Berzai. Hi Rose...Rick always answers questions if not he will say he doesn't have an answer. He does listen to us and has given us some really useful info. Guess I need to check out that section of Lowes.
......wood sounds fine...at a table talking, the conversation would be different.....typed its short version......buffered water has a natural resistance to large ph swings that can kill life, fish plants etc.....limestone, or other minerals, help buffer the water so its less likely to be affected by environmental hits that can cause die off of aquatic life......kind of a water version of adding lime to your yard or garden to keep it "sweet".......keeps it more around the neutral zone.....nothing is over your head.....buffered water is more like tap, and that's where the disagreement starts........If I grow plants now in hydro.....i use rainwater off my roof.....no issues.....if you want to try hydro.....try a hempy bucket...or a flood and drain tray.....very simple for lettuce..easy to make with $5 worth of stuff.....full on hydro with running water involves temperature controls, pumps, valves, etc....be happy to discuss if interested...
Hello dear friend, I too can listen to your wealth of knowledge all day long! Guarantee I will watch this video multiple times! I wanted to ask you, you said “heavy feed” how many ppm is that? I keep my nutrients to 165-200 ppm once a week and I mist them every morning with calmag 200 ppm. Is it time to increase that number as the sun starts shining more now with spring?
Hi Rick, deninitely not to much rambling. Thanks for another informative video - definitely food for thought (OK, pun intended). I am in an area where we have very pure tap water (30 to 40 ppm TDS) and I do add CalMag when I water my plants in pots (so, in a way, you are preaching to the converted). Recently I have been worrying about my mounted orchids - which generally are just misted (the roots) or put under the tap for a good soaking weekly. Lately I have started adding weak fertilizer and tiny amounts of CalMag to my spray bottle. Do you think this will give them the nutrients they need - or could you suggest a better approach? You have lots of mounted orchids, so I am guessing you have thought about this. Thanks in advance for any advice. And please keep sharing your thoughts and knowledge, we really do appreciate it.
great questions Judith......if your tap is ok, your lucky......still dont rely on it for Ca.....you need to check your mix for Calcium and magnesium....add if it needs it. My mounts I soak, I never spray them unless I have to.....
Hello Rick, how are you doing sir... I would like to know how do you water all of your orchids... you have so many, do you water them by sections? please do tell. Thank you for your wonderful videos.. I am a new subscriber.
Hi Rick I like your Rambling,my orchids are in bark,moss and leka beads like you said I have lots of issues ,I live in Toronto Ontario, long winter too , give me some advice please ,I love your videos , and I pray for your health too,
Don't worry, Rick. You yelled or screamed because you are passionate and desire to help. I would love to see how you repot a newly bought phal stuffed with sphagnum moss.
……..great question...……ask yourself......would they get rain or water during winter rest......would they get food?...…..yes they would get water......just not that often and not as much...….same with food...….not as often and not as much
Rick, You seem to experiment a great deal with nutrients necessary for orchids. Through your discussions it is obvious that you have done vegetable gardening. I have an unusual question. With vegetable gardening some individuals believe that the phase of the moon affects when you should plant. I wonder if there is any research out there that discusses the effects of the lunar cycles on orchids. Just food for thought/discussion....................
.....yes either one........but, ...being a thin leaf variety of orchid they like a bit more water than say a Cattleya....so I use pea gravel in my environment for them.......the pea gravel is smaller and wont dry out as fast.....compared to larger pieces of river rock or lava....think of your grow conditions and choose by that........if that makes sense.....thanks Clare
Hello, do P. orchíds need Ca only? Is organic brown-rice and millet-water good? I bought my 1st, and all the roots were rotten withoiút me knowing, one short , half-fractured one. I have put it in plain water, but unsure if it can thrive , since it doesn't grow in water naturally(?) Grateful for advice, if you can? Nice video.
Ok I need to watch again and take notes. Love love this information and I think you do a wonderful job. I am having reddish roots come out on some of mine. Does fertilizer amount change the color? I do not think they are burnt but am just wondering it there are amounts that trigger reactions in the roots them self? Hope I am asking this correctly. Thank you Rick this is great information and it’s appreciated
Hello Rick, can I fertilize Calcium Nitrate, Epsom Salt together with Nitrogen (I know that that I have to mix the CalNit and Epsom separately) with a PH between 5.8-6.0)? Thanks a lot.
yes and no.......your mixing them separate, and ph is correct, ....but dont feed just that......they need the other nutrients as well or can get odd growths
Hi Rick, I have learnt from your videos time and time again how calcium is so important for orchid growth & development. Its hard to get Cal-Mg here where I live. I bought a pack of dolomite powder. Any suggestions on how to use it correctly (quantity, frequency, etc.) and the pros/cons if you have any idea? Thanks
on orchids I have no experience with dolomite powder,.....If it was me.....I would try a 1/4 tsp and sprinkle it around the pot of your "least" favorite orchid......after its been water several times over the next week or so.....if no issues... start a few others.....its good stuff and works slower....if it acted fast, burns can occur......just be careful, you can always add more, please keep me informed to share with other viewers......thank you.
Hi Rick, thanks for your advice. I was thinking of calcium nitrate when an experienced veteran grower from Sydney suggested me to use Dolomite powder. One of the reasons/ benefits he mentioned was that dolomite helps to check the growing acidity of the medium with organic medium. I went ahead and have been using it on all my orchids from the weakest fertiliser loving tolumnias to heavy feeders like phals, vandas. I just sprinkle a small amount, almost like dusting the top of the media after watering. It sits there for a while and gets washed of during next watering/ fertilising. No negative actions so far after at least 3-4 weeks. I always exercise caution on the side of lesser than more. I do this about once every 1-2 weeks. So I am comfortable & confident that dolomite won't harm my orchids unless I pour lots on the roots. I'm also thinking of bringing about variety with Calcium nitrate and dolomite alternating in between weeks (Just as suggested in this video by you). The only downside of dolomite for me is that it is a bit of a white mess and a bit unsightly for me. But seems to be working fine. I don't want overnight results, just a little extra boost in this peak growing season to help improve the growths. I learnt about the importance from you Rick :)
love your thought process.....and your correct, they would need it during active growth period...keeping the media from getting to acidic....is exactly what its supposed to do...appreciate the feedback.....will pass it on to the other viewers........Calcium nitrate needs to be used with other nutrients or it can cause odd growths.....please keep me updated, and thanks for sharing...
Can you briefly suggest how to use calcium nitrate correctly to minimise such odd growths. What other nutrients should I combine it with & how? Thanks again
The only resting type orchids I have are Catesedums. This is great information. All of mine have started their new growth cycles. I'll be putting up an update video on them soon. I still don't have any CalMag, but I'll be ordering soon. Most of my orchids are starting to put out new growths now, and they definitely need that Calcium. Take care Rick.
here in Australia we're all getting ready for the rest, so this is great to know now. Are you able to put a link to the channel you mentioned from New Zealand Please? :-)
The orchids you are saying need a winter rest come from the tropics. They only have 2 seasons wet and dry. Summer is their wet season. With humidity. The rest is dry season.
Thank you so much.. again. I hope you're ok, but you kind off scare me with 'the talk' you're going to do! I hope it's nothing disastrous. I have a quick question: To add some calcium, can I add a cup off tapwater (tds about 175) to 1/2 gallon with rainwater? Will that do the trick with some added epsom salt? I also use Peters 15-5-15CalMag. I hope that's good enough all together.
Hi. Rick don't ever thing your talking to much, you have no idea how much I have learned from you I am a newbie to orchids and after listening to others, they all say using spagnamoss than I find out that the outside of the moss dry out but inside of the plant is still soacking wet and roots are water loged so when I thought that spagnamoss was dry under the plant it was really saturated and I kept giving water. So now when ever I buy a pholanopsis orchids lr any other type of orchids from a store the first thing I do is take the orchids out of the moss and use the lava rocks i use the red 20mm scoria rocks and I mix of blue stone 20mm rocks in all my orchids, now I have started using coffee grounds and egg shells for calcium and other nutrients, the egg shells I put into a blender and turned it into broken down to a fine egg shell dust it's easier to add to the orchids and other plants like my adeniums desert rose plants, I'll see now with time how well they grow using Rick. L system with lava rocks or volcanic rocks this way the roots will never rot they are well drained and does not hold water but just enough for the orchids to feed. Will post the outcome with time. thank you Rick for your time and information. Regards from Australia.
No, Mr. Rick you're not coming off aggressive or rambling at all. I am learning so much from your videos because I also like to know why something works the way it does. You are wealth of information and your voice is so calming. Thank you so much for sharing your orchid knowledge. It's been 2yrs. since you made this video so, I pray all is well w/you and your wife and your health. God bless y'all!!😇
We never get tire of listening to you Rick.
Yes 🤯🫣😑 now I remember. I lost a beautiful phal that was in moss from rot! Oh God please heal my sick girl.
Please Rick, keep rumbling. You are a great teacher, I am soaking your wisdom and admire how you explain the reasons behind the biological and chemical processes occurring in the plants. . You are truly teaching us to fish instead of giving us a fish. Thank you, thank you!
.......such wonderful feedback.....Thank you very much my friend.
You might think that you are rambling, Rick, but what comes out of your mouth is to us, what calcium is to a plant! Your "ramblings" are your stacked up years of knowledge and experience giving us the building blocks to confidently form our own questions, to wonder and imagine without censor as we gather more information to help solve those questions. So far, this site, with all of your kind and curious viewers, along with your "rambling" fountain of knowledge has really helped me learn soooooo much! I love reading your subscribers questions and learning from all of you! This is one of my favorite classrooms EVER!
very kind thank you......your so correct.....the comments and responses from the viewers is great......lots of good info....
You could ramble all day and would not get bored. Love this topic!
Not just what, but how & why. This is a concept I live by. Thanks again!
You keep calling your teaching rambling but you have been such a blessing to me and have taught me more about orchids in the passed few days than all the videos I've watched the past few months. (I've been binge watching all your videos) and have enjoyed it so much. I have short term memory problems, but I'm making notes lol... thank you so much for sharing all your knowledge.
Sending prayers
…...right there with you Patty...….my Parkinsons has really hit my memory hard......but with gods healing hands and support of such kind people as yourself......we will do fine....let me know if ever I can repeat something for you....
So, I am watching all your videos, and besides learning tons of information I am thinking: look at this man, he is got something to say. I can't help but compare you to all the charlatans on TV and social medias, and I feel gratefull that one day you started this channel. What a difference it makes. Cheers from Argentina.
Very informative as usual. Please keep em coming and don't change anything. Thank you so much for all that you do, just know that it is appreciated very much. Take care of yourself and happy growing!
Hi Rick,
I'm enjoying watching your videos and find them very informative. Please don't apologize because your attitude has been nothing but helpful and pleasant. All the very best.
......very kind thank you!
You don't sound like you're yelling at all. You sound excited! It's what makes your videos so good as we get caught up in it. Love your passion!
thank you Eileen.......
Ramble all you want. I've learned so much from your videos. Roots, roots, Wet, Dry and calcium. My orchids are doing so much better and yes, my roots are going crazy!
I learn so much when you ramble!
Thanks Rick! wow great information..Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge. You're giving us a gift from your heart.
Wishing you many blessings and prayers.
Dear Rick, I pray for your good health, and I'm sure you are gonna be amongst us doing these lovely work on your channel for many more years to come. Stay blessed always
I listen and learn so much from you! Thanks Ric, from the bottom of my heart ♥️
your so very welcome....
Thank Rick for a beautiful video I love to see your plantas so clean and healthy .... I’m not sure If I’m understanding everything but I’m trying.
Thank again 😃👍🏼
I use baked and crushed to powder egg 🥚 shells once a month and regular orchid food about 1 or twice a month I’ve just been learning for about 2 years now I have about 30 orchids. Thank you for the information very helpful thank you 💗
Dear Rick thank you!, your teachings r the best, sharing your experiences brings knowledge and useful information. Plants show us all the time the circle of life... beginning - end... the most important is what we do in between... Rick your passion and care enlightens...keep going We thank you so much 🤗😘
I would listen to you rambling all day Rick, because I learn something new each time you produce a video and I think most growers would agree with you, your plants are showing signs of great results by your methods of providing calcium and additional nutrients throughout the growing season which is obviously beneficial to all types of orchids which are kept outside their natural environment. Well done in your explanation & presentation. Keep the videos coming.
Rick, you are not in the slightest bit aggressive, you are passionate which is different. I just loved this video...its helped my understanding a lot. Thank you Thank you 😊
Thank you I have 3 new PHAL and I'm doing something good . Thanks to your channel .I put them in river rock 3 months now.happy growing.😊🐶🌸
Dear Rick, this is One Great Teaching Video! I was captivated through the entire talk, did not want it to end, and I don't even grow orchids! It could be that I completely agree with your approach to understanding the 'Why' of how nutrients work for a plant. Understanding a plant's natural environment is important to success & healthy plants like yours - I apply your principals to my AV species which are so different from hybrids. Your style of sharing what you have learned really works for me, and it looks like for many others as well. Can hardly wait for the next video, I might have to acquire at least one orchid soon!
thank you Lindy......use caution......I bought on and now have 130+......
Lindy Miller a
Great stuff Rick, one of your best so far. I never get tired of your rambling or rants on nutrition and growing. Wishing you all the best.
thanks Bob
I absolutely love all the information you are sharing!
I binge-watched all your videos like a week ago and learned so much from you.
It made me rethink lots of things I thought I knew about orchids and just growing in general.
Thank you so much Rick, love your videos! ❤️
I am watching this for the fourth time. ... i learn or should I say that I memorizing what you are teaching us on this video and all of your videos,!!! I wish you and Jan times to be in the presence of your love for each other. .... and I wish you could come back to us because I think of questions I woild like your answer to ... but as I ponder the question I would ask. ... i can almost hear your thoughts so as agreat teacher you have given me the skills to find out the answer using the knowledge you have given me!! God bless you and thanks again for this treasure trove of videos!!!
Not rambling, another great video Ricky and your enthusiasm for orchid growing enthuses us even more!
Perfectly logical and I really don’t want my orchids to use up their reserves, (where this applies). I have had a spike that has died back this year, and a few buds on some spikes turn yellow and fall off instead of maturing. I always transition all my orchids to water culture immediately I get them and don’t let them sit in bark or moss a day. As I’ve start using U.K. equivalent of Cal Mag, and fertilising using a TDS meter, I’m hoping next year the conditions I mentioned above won’t occur again 🤞🤞🤞
they shouldn't Chris, and thanks.....
Watching this again. I remove my newly purchased orchids from it's pots when I get home. It's amazing how rotten and soggy the roots can be. Some will break into pieces because it's rotting. My depot store moved their orchids indoor and now when you remove it, it's bone dry and brittle roots. Watching videos on nutrition is so important and I have learned a lot. Thank you!
You scream and yell as much as you like - I now have a whole new thing to research - this 'hormone thing' - BUGGER - more work but I will ALWAYS have that thirst - the more you know, the better you grow! And the learning never stops. I wish you well and I hope you can pass on as much of this stuff as possible and I hope folks REALLY appreciate what you do/say for us. Keep well and take care and now, thinking of a possible future, I'm getting all emotional - not like me at all.
This last Winter has been my most successful with the resting type Dendrobiums and I can now say that in my environment, getting blooms is not so much about 'how dry' but is more about how bright and how cool. I have high air humidity and so the plants are never really bone dry even though I stop feeding and reduce watering. But this Winter, they got full sun (no shading at all) and 2C lower than last Winter - down to a night temp of 12C as opposed to 14C in previous Winters and all have bloomed (or have loads of buds). Also, it's not so much the 'actual' low night temps as the 'difference' as the plants go into December. I am now convinced that it is the high light levels and the low night temps that does the trick and watering or not is of less importance. I think a 'book burning' is in order!!!
....yes and no.......your correct that the light and the cool period is critical, especially differentials of night and day, because it helps to trigger hormone production.......but the dehydration caused by the lack of rain .....concentrates the hormones......the more hormones concentrated the better the bloom season......that's why synthetic Gibberelins /cytokinin's...plant hormones ....are used to increase blooms for the commercial market....the more light the more sugar production....feeds the whole process.......but yes..lol....it does make you think about the books written...
Roger's Orchids
Yes I think you should write a book on that very subject! From a subscriber of yours!!!
Hi Rick, there is ABSOLUTELY NOTHING WRONG with your old videos. No reason for you to "hate" them or to redoo them . They are very nice. Lovely indeed. So please do not critizise yourself for them and leave everything as it is. :-)) Do not think about the reactions that "beeing you" will create in others. Because there will always be 1/3rd of the people that like us a lot, 1/3rd will feel indifferent about us. And 1/3rd will have another "wave-length." :-)) So be happy and follow your heart.:-))
so very true.......thank you.
Another interesting video. I always learn something from watching your channel.
I personally think you're naturally brilliant... Thank you for sharing your Thoughts I really do appreciate it...
Also worth remembering as you so rightly point out, where these plants grow they 'get what they are given' - but again, is that by 'choice' or just because that's the way it is where they live? There is a BIG difference between getting some moisture from dew and mist/fog and when the rains return and start washing in all those nutrients! I wish I could say all these things as well as you do - it's all in my head but it seems to come out 'jumbled'. Bottom line, the blooms on these resting types can be produced from 'reserves' but growth starts when the rains come. (Sorry but these comments are getting typed as I watch - and I'm getting so excited, I'm posting as I think)
lmao......I hope it helps the understanding of growing......thanks Roger
Roger, quit saying you don’t explain as good. You do and I think you should do more. You and Rick have taught me so much and I am so grateful for this. You two are the “bomb bo diddy” lol 😂 seriously you two are awesome!
I agree 100%!!! I am learning so much from you both! This is what I love to do in my free time (not much of that) and your videos have poured so much information and energy into me.... I bought a house a year ago that had a covered open patio so I could build my dream garden / orchid room. It is enclosed now with picture windows and French doors. I have over 100 orchids and your information has been priceless in my pursuit of orchid love. Rick, I will continue to pray for your health issues. All I can say is thank you from the bottom of my heart and God bless you both....💕
Very interesting stuff. I introdused extra magnesium to my orchids and the difference is amazing. The root growth, the colour of the leaves all improved. I haven't been able to find calcium or cal mag here but I will start trying to source it soon when my finances allow me to. Thankyou again for the information
Rick you are doing just fine,very helpful,thank you i learn so much from you.
Hey Rick! New subscriber here! I love your videos. They are so informative and helpful and I enjoy all the rambling. It just shows your passion for growing orchids. I’m currently growing several different genera and I’m up to 58 orchids in the collection but they only account for 1/4th of the plants that I grow inside my house. My appetite for information on growing is never ending. Thanks for providing excellent knowledge on growing these beauties!
wonderful comment.....thank you so much, and welcome.......your collection sounds great, .....we will continue to learn together....
Please write a book about orchids and nutrients, etc...it would help so many in the hobby. I love ur channel!
I love your plants, very healthy. You give great info during these ramblings keep it up! To me your the orchid man, you explain these great
Thank you....
Thanks again Rick good information can’t wait till the next video.
impressive as always Rick, thank you for sharing with us. will be looking forward to this talk... hope everything is ok.
Informative....thanks for sharing with us...Look at those beautiful roots...gorgeous...
Love your rambling
Bless you Rick. Lots of info in this video. Good info, but I may need to start keeping a notebook on your info. My brain is full!! Take care.
Amazing video! That will help a LOT of people! This kind of makes sense to me why my orchids don't stop growing in the winter, they have permanent supply of all nutrients, mobile and imobile... Of course, for some Dendrobium orchids in order to induce blooms we still need to stop fertilizing, but that is ok! Thank you for sharing!
Mi
racle Orchids
Great video! Really enjoy your "yelling at us". LOL!!!! You do NOT do that!. My age old brain his it's own rational, from years ago, as to what causes kiki's on Phals, Dems, etc. It'll be really interesting to hear your take. I should say facts explained as to why. Thanks for this thought provoking video! Enjoy the spring.
.....what great talks could be had with some coffee and a big table.....Thanks Brad, Ill be talking soon about that.....
Thanks again for sharing your knowledge!
Hey Rick......thanks for the short out......I just water with some calcium. I love how you explain things, you do such a good job of it. You are not scream at us, you are enthusiastic and excited that's how you come across to me
your so welcome Debra.......I told you that was an eye opener for me...
Lol.. I Love your Titles... Straight up...
Very thought provoking. You got me thinking again and usually I'm happy with the results of me pondering what you say! Improvements are usually the result of watching your videos. Thanks for another great video. Love learning from you! So the burning we see on leaves, roots etc can be because although the nutrients are there, insufficient calcium slows down growth and all those nutrients have no where to go because without proper calcium the growth slows down or even stalls. So the excess of nutrients build up and burn the structures. Never though of it this way. So interesting!
I feel the same way about some of my old videos. I get passionate about what I'm talking about and if I ever watch them myself I cringe because I think it comes off differently then I intended. I'm trying to be better about that.
......yes, the nutrients can build up and cause die back......but even with a lot of Ca available.......if the ph is too low they cant absorb it.....more than one reason why......your a great grower, you have the green heart.......your finding your way as I am....thank you.....
I love your take on things!!!
Lovely, healthy looking plants. I only have one orchid I received from a friend that has little roots but I'm trying to save it in my house, no greenhouse! I love your videos. Thank you.
Superbe collection ! Très intéressante vidéo. Merci.
thank you....
I have to watch multiple times to completely understand.. you aren’t fussing just excited
I don’t consider your talks on orchid nutrients rambling at all. Although my orchids seem to be doing well I don’t really have a clear understanding about their nutrient needs except what is on my MSU container. I hope that you will continue educating us many times! I love this hobby and am amazed what I’ve learned from videos such as yours over the past couple of years. Thank you for sharing and wishing you good health!
Wow 👀 I didn't know! .....great information like all ways. ...Love your mounts are so natural and beautiful 😀👍
thanks Ashley.....Ill be in touch soon...
Rick L. Orchids 😁yeeey
Hi Rick. I keep watching your videos over and over. How are you? Haven’t heard from you lately. Please make a short video, let us know you are ok. 😇
You are amazing. Your ALS isn't what controls your life span. Only God controls that. I know the ALS is controlling some of your abilities, but you aren't going anywhere, 1 day before God says it is time. I do appreciate your outlook. I know you have dealt with this for a long time. You are strong, you are positive and you have an abundance of knowledge that you have shared with us. I so much, appreciate it. Still praying for you brother.
You aren’t a beginner! You are a wise man. Do you have a greenhouse? So many questions for you. Be well Sir...
lol.....thank you sir....no greenhouse.....small rolling shade house.....and grow room inside...
Interesting rambles but now you have to tell us your theory on keikis, you have triggered my need for more rambling.
Thank you Rick
Great info, I'm waiting for my cal/mag to be delivered :) I've been thinking about adding it for awhile now and ordered it a few days ago, SO curious to try it. My fertilizer has some calcium in it (2%) but I'm curious to see what adding an extra feeding of just the cal-mag will do. I don't have die-off or black root tips but I think the new growths and leaves, especially on my cattleyas could be a lot stronger. Thank you.
Great video my friend
Just repotted a Den. in lava rock excited to see if it improves
Hello,Rick! Thank you so much for sharing such an informative video.
Could you write the names of your beautiful dendrophals? I liked them very much. Thank you.
Your rambling is full of information so keep on rambling.
Can eggs shell ground to powder be used as calcium form?
yes......but they need time to break down and start working, and they can be slow to release....it can work, but there are better calcium sources...
Rick L. Thank you for sharing your knowledge about ph levels and immobile nutrients (video time 18:00-22:35). Ramble all you need to, because I listen to every video you post three or four times, and I don't mind it at all.
Since I do not have Mr. Jackson as a driftwood supplier, can I use types of wood purchased from Home Depot or LOWE'S to mount orchids? And, where do you buy clay pots with holes for your orchids? With fingers crossed, I will wait for your answers. Thank you for fueling my interest in growing orchids. Date: April 7, 2018
thank you my friend.....yes cedar, oak,, cypress, hickory, can all be used for orchids......green tree wood is fine also, they grow on green live wood usually. A fresh cut limb from a tree will work even....doesn't have to be dead or driftwood....
the red clay pots with holes... I drill those........easy to do....I will show in a few weeks when its warmer...
Rick L. You are just wonderful! Wonderful! Wonderful! I'm another one of your UA-cam followers who would wait hours in line just to shake your hand. People like you are the salt of the earth. ANY video you send will be welcome. Thank you so much. Date: April 8, 2018
Oh, wow! Mister, I have so much of that in my yard. I'll be sure to spray wood pieces with hydrogen peroxide before attaching an orchid. You have set this old girl out on the right road now! Thank you a thousand times!
Date: April 8, 2018
Hi Rick! I'm about halfway through your video and just brainstorming/rambling out loud. I was thinking about potential calcium sources for orchids that are growing attached to trees in the wild. And the correlation of growth being triggered in the spring. I think what makes orchids so complicated for us is that their (the Orchids that is) relationship with their unique environments is so subtle, nuanced and complicated. And the orchids' evolution is simultaneous and intertwined with everything from their neighborhood fungi, to other plants to bugs and birds and mammals in the area but I digress. So I was thinking about a potential source of calcium in the spring time. Do you think it's possible that certain species of birds lay eggs, the chicks hatch and then the rains run through nests and onto the orchids and signal their growth somehow that way? Between the acidity of tanins and bird droppings and perhaps bird hormones and the calcium from the eggshells themselves? maybe it's the perfect chemical setting for the orchids to restart growth in the wild? Anyways I should probably quit while I'm ahead because I'm not a scientist and have only been growing orchids for about 10 months. Also I have to finish listening to this video. I always appreciate your videos and your thoughts make me think and want to understand things. Have a wonderful day!
.....very interesting, but your correct in a way......its all those things, including a birds nest and egg shells.......trees pull massive amounts of Calcium to build trunks branches etc......so they have a source available built into them.....live bark, contains more Ca than dead bark....
Rick L. Orchids so interesting! I had no idea that orchids derived nutrition from live bark, I kinda assumed they were happy little epiphytes who occasionally resided on trees but are they perhaps a little parasitic (as opposed to passively absorbing the occasional wave of nutrients washing over them)? Anyways I'm rambling, but I just love that I always learn something new and have something new to think about every time I see a video from you. Have a wonderful evening!
rick. thank you for all the information .😊take care .. can't wait to see them out side. springtime is here !!😊
Have to say I loved this video!!! It was longer and if you want to call it rambling then so be it. Lot's and lot's of info. I wouldn't change a thing. About the dot thing, you may laugh, but I thought it was because with modern technology no one shows faces, so sometimes we misread a person's intent. Of course I am used to the disabled like the autistic with no facial expressions for their intent, so all good. As for yelling, haven't noticed unless your spring birds get so loud that they steal the show, like that other video. At those times you may have to compete ha!ha! Now it's my turn to ramble. I found some extremely attractive wood that I just loved the look of so couldn't leave it there at a newly opened Lowe's. Of all places it was in the grilling department. Yes, my husband thought it was for food and knew it's too cold for that here right now. Well, I just let him know that it was not for food. We don't have a Mr Jackson ha!ha! Still in the package for now, but I admire it daily. It's cross cut white cedar and looks phenomenal!!! Would like to try to mount something, absorbs water 20 times water so for now I am admiring it the package. Just want to let you know that you and yours are always in my thoughts and always wish you well. What a trek this thing we call life is. If it wasn't hard, it wouldn't be worth it!!! Just a quick question if you don't mind, might be off topic, but could you explain in layman's terms about water buffering capacity. Thanks so much my friend. Baseball season coming soon for your grandson. You have to go see those games!!!. Also are your Venus flytraps out of the fridge yet. Stay well my friend. Wish I were closer to help, but I am so north and west on another continent, that only some weather patterns cross. I don't expect an answer if it's hard for you. Really hoping though that you are still up to it??? Thanks again my friend.
LOVED
Your so kind Rose thank you......baseball practice has already begun.....I love it...and you offer to help is too kind, thanks....white cedar should be fine.....must be for smoking salmon?.....watering buffering?......not sure what you mean..?
Rick L. Orchids Thanks for your reply. So glad to hear that baseball practice already started and you are able to enjoy watching it. Yes, you are right, these slabs are for grilling and smoking the food, but instead of those cedar planks, they are cross cut white cedar with the bark still surrounding it and the beautiful rings and inside of the tree visible. The package states that you get each tree's unique flavor by utilizing all the tree's cells. It's these cells that deliver nutrients from the roots to the leaves. And the package also states that cross cut planks whether hardwood or softwood absorb liquids approximately 20 times faster than a normal lumber cut plank. The result is a slow release of natural flavor into your food. There, I wrote what the package states. Whew!!! Nice 2 pack. Just need the courage to try to mount one of my orchids and decide which one I should try. My question about water buffering capacity came about from looking at the hydroponics nutrients and reading people's reviews both negative and positive, and the complaints of too much ph drop and too acidic. Then there was mention of the water source used like RO , distilled etc... So talk was about water buffering capacity??? Was pondering trying a small hydroponic set up maybe try some lettuce. Maybe this stuff might be over my head, but I had some interest. Thanks again and take care.
Rose Berzai. Hi Rose...Rick always answers questions if not he will say he doesn't have an answer. He does listen to us and has given us some really useful info.
Guess I need to check out that section of Lowes.
......wood sounds fine...at a table talking, the conversation would be different.....typed its short version......buffered water has a natural resistance to large ph swings that can kill life, fish plants etc.....limestone, or other minerals, help buffer the water so its less likely to be affected by environmental hits that can cause die off of aquatic life......kind of a water version of adding lime to your yard or garden to keep it "sweet".......keeps it more around the neutral zone.....nothing is over your head.....buffered water is more like tap, and that's where the disagreement starts........If I grow plants now in hydro.....i use rainwater off my roof.....no issues.....if you want to try hydro.....try a hempy bucket...or a flood and drain tray.....very simple for lettuce..easy to make with $5 worth of stuff.....full on hydro with running water involves temperature controls, pumps, valves, etc....be happy to discuss if interested...
I like your bank account analogy. Happy growing!
Hello dear friend, I too can listen to your wealth of knowledge all day long! Guarantee I will watch this video multiple times! I wanted to ask you, you said “heavy feed” how many ppm is that? I keep my nutrients to 165-200 ppm once a week and I mist them every morning with calmag 200 ppm. Is it time to increase that number as the sun starts shining more now with spring?
no stay where you are ....watch the growths........thank you
Hi Rick, deninitely not to much rambling. Thanks for another informative video - definitely food for thought (OK, pun intended). I am in an area where we have very pure tap water (30 to 40 ppm TDS) and I do add CalMag when I water my plants in pots (so, in a way, you are preaching to the converted). Recently I have been worrying about my mounted orchids - which generally are just misted (the roots) or put under the tap for a good soaking weekly. Lately I have started adding weak fertilizer and tiny amounts of CalMag to my spray bottle. Do you think this will give them the nutrients they need - or could you suggest a better approach? You have lots of mounted orchids, so I am guessing you have thought about this. Thanks in advance for any advice. And please keep sharing your thoughts and knowledge, we really do appreciate it.
great questions Judith......if your tap is ok, your lucky......still dont rely on it for Ca.....you need to check your mix for Calcium and magnesium....add if it needs it. My mounts I soak, I never spray them unless I have to.....
Judith Sarcochilus zzz
Hello Rick, how are you doing sir... I would like to know how do you water all of your orchids... you have so many, do you water them by sections? please do tell. Thank you for your wonderful videos.. I am a new subscriber.
they are all outside for the summer.....I spray them outside....inside they get soaked several times a week....
Hi Rick I like your Rambling,my orchids are in bark,moss and leka beads like you said I have lots of issues ,I live in Toronto Ontario, long winter too , give me some advice please ,I love your videos , and I pray for your health too,
what can I help with...send me a message...?
Don't worry, Rick. You yelled or screamed because you are passionate and desire to help. I would love to see how you repot a newly bought phal stuffed with sphagnum moss.
we will soon......warm weather in few weeks...
Hello Rick
which are the orchid you know havecwinter rest !! how you feed ? Or no feed at all during rest ??
……..great question...……ask yourself......would they get rain or water during winter rest......would they get food?...…..yes they would get water......just not that often and not as much...….same with food...….not as often and not as much
Rick,
You seem to experiment a great deal with nutrients necessary for orchids. Through your discussions it is obvious that you have done vegetable gardening. I have an unusual question. With vegetable gardening some individuals believe that the phase of the moon affects when you should plant. I wonder if there is any research out there that discusses the effects of the lunar cycles on orchids. Just food for thought/discussion....................
......I wish I could understand that logic, and I bet it has truth in there for some reason.....but out of my league....
my aggratum is half the size of yours and i got 3 spikes.. very happy, also no winterrest..:D
Martin Spijker
Mine also has 3 spikes but with it gets a cool bright winter and a hot bright wet summer.
Just checked and there are 4 spikes!!!!!!
Rick I will listen to you ramble all day will an oncidium do well in River Rock or lava rock thanks
.....yes either one........but, ...being a thin leaf variety of orchid they like a bit more water than say a Cattleya....so I use pea gravel in my environment for them.......the pea gravel is smaller and wont dry out as fast.....compared to larger pieces of river rock or lava....think of your grow conditions and choose by that........if that makes sense.....thanks Clare
Clare, if you're in the USA and want to try lava rock, repotme.com sells lava rock in various sizes.
Hello, do P. orchíds need Ca only? Is organic brown-rice and millet-water good? I bought my 1st, and all the roots were rotten withoiút me knowing, one short , half-fractured one. I have put it in plain water, but unsure if it can thrive , since it doesn't grow in water naturally(?) Grateful for advice, if you can? Nice video.
Ok I need to watch again and take notes. Love love this information and I think you do a wonderful job. I am having reddish roots come out on some of mine. Does fertilizer amount change the color? I do not think they are burnt but am just wondering it there are amounts that trigger reactions in the roots them self? Hope I am asking this correctly. Thank you Rick this is great information and it’s appreciated
Thanks Stacey......the roots are red or the active growing tips are?.......
Rick L. Orchids active growing tips. Never seen this before. Am I growing an alien 👽 lol 😂
that's probably the real color......may not show till the plant is getting all its nutrients, .....could be a sign its happy.....
Rick L. Orchids oh good a happy alien lol. Thank you for responding! I will watch it and see what, if anything else happens
Hello Rick, can I fertilize Calcium Nitrate, Epsom Salt together with Nitrogen (I know that that I have to mix the CalNit and Epsom separately) with a PH between 5.8-6.0)? Thanks a lot.
yes and no.......your mixing them separate, and ph is correct, ....but dont feed just that......they need the other nutrients as well or can get odd growths
Rick L. Orchids I forgot to include that the Nitrogen also include minor nutrients as well. Thanks a lot.
Hi Rick, I have learnt from your videos time and time again how calcium is so important for orchid growth & development. Its hard to get Cal-Mg here where I live. I bought a pack of dolomite powder. Any suggestions on how to use it correctly (quantity, frequency, etc.) and the pros/cons if you have any idea? Thanks
on orchids I have no experience with dolomite powder,.....If it was me.....I would try a 1/4 tsp and sprinkle it around the pot of your "least" favorite orchid......after its been water several times over the next week or so.....if no issues... start a few others.....its good stuff and works slower....if it acted fast, burns can occur......just be careful, you can always add more, please keep me informed to share with other viewers......thank you.
Hi Rick, thanks for your advice. I was thinking of calcium nitrate when an experienced veteran grower from Sydney suggested me to use Dolomite powder. One of the reasons/ benefits he mentioned was that dolomite helps to check the growing acidity of the medium with organic medium. I went ahead and have been using it on all my orchids from the weakest fertiliser loving tolumnias to heavy feeders like phals, vandas. I just sprinkle a small amount, almost like dusting the top of the media after watering. It sits there for a while and gets washed of during next watering/ fertilising. No negative actions so far after at least 3-4 weeks. I always exercise caution on the side of lesser than more. I do this about once every 1-2 weeks. So I am comfortable & confident that dolomite won't harm my orchids unless I pour lots on the roots. I'm also thinking of bringing about variety with Calcium nitrate and dolomite alternating in between weeks (Just as suggested in this video by you). The only downside of dolomite for me is that it is a bit of a white mess and a bit unsightly for me. But seems to be working fine. I don't want overnight results, just a little extra boost in this peak growing season to help improve the growths. I learnt about the importance from you Rick :)
love your thought process.....and your correct, they would need it during active growth period...keeping the media from getting to acidic....is exactly what its supposed to do...appreciate the feedback.....will pass it on to the other viewers........Calcium nitrate needs to be used with other nutrients or it can cause odd growths.....please keep me updated, and thanks for sharing...
Can you briefly suggest how to use calcium nitrate correctly to minimise such odd growths. What other nutrients should I combine it with & how? Thanks again
Hi Rick
Can the orchids get calcium from just tap water?
please watch this next video.....it will explain that
Thank you Rick for your well thought out answers. U made me even think about my other plants in soil. Now I can see what they are lacking as well.
I'm sorry one more thing in yes I do watch your videos but do you treat the wood before you put orchids on them?
thank you for all the kind words......no I rinse them well, give them a good scrub.....and attach the orchids...
Great question!
Thank you Rick
The only resting type orchids I have are Catesedums. This is great information. All of mine have started their new growth cycles. I'll be putting up an update video on them soon. I still don't have any CalMag, but I'll be ordering soon. Most of my orchids are starting to put out new growths now, and they definitely need that Calcium. Take care Rick.
thank you my friend......your correct....they need that Ca...
Rick I don't want to be a pain but today in 3-4gls of water 1/4teaspoon of better grow fertilizer my tds meter said 370 doing that seem possible???
not in pure water....is it Tap water......if so....what is the tap ppm alone?
here in Australia we're all getting ready for the rest, so this is great to know now. Are you able to put a link to the channel you mentioned from New Zealand Please? :-)
ua-cam.com/channels/bWMPhblwbgKIHq5Nl0u5-A.html
The orchids you are saying need a winter rest come from the tropics. They only have 2 seasons wet and dry. Summer is their wet season. With humidity. The rest is dry season.
Rick by the way starting out with rain water the tds was7
got ya.....no something is wrong.....recheck the meter....
Thank you so much.. again. I hope you're ok, but you kind off scare me with 'the talk' you're going to do! I hope it's nothing disastrous. I have a quick question: To add some calcium, can I add a cup off tapwater (tds about 175) to 1/2 gallon with rainwater? Will that do the trick with some added epsom salt? I also use Peters 15-5-15CalMag. I hope that's good enough all together.
thank you......watch this next video for that answer..
Just watched it, thank you!!
Thank you so much for research and you are so right rotten and smells awful.
Hi. Rick don't ever thing your talking to much, you have no idea how much I have learned from you I am a newbie to orchids and after listening to others, they all say using spagnamoss than I find out that the outside of the moss dry out but inside of the plant is still soacking wet and roots are water loged so when I thought that spagnamoss was dry under the plant it was really saturated and I kept giving water. So now when ever I buy a pholanopsis orchids lr any other type of orchids from a store the first thing I do is take the orchids out of the moss and use the lava rocks i use the red 20mm scoria rocks and I mix of blue stone 20mm rocks in all my orchids, now I have started using coffee grounds and egg shells for calcium and other nutrients, the egg shells I put into a blender and turned it into broken down to a fine egg shell dust it's easier to add to the orchids and other plants like my adeniums desert rose plants, I'll see now with time how well they grow using Rick. L system with lava rocks or volcanic rocks this way the roots will never rot they are well drained and does not hold water but just enough for the orchids to feed. Will post the outcome with time. thank you Rick for your time and information. Regards from Australia.
Aggressive? You? Nope..never crossed my mind on any of your videos
your too sweet.......your violets look great, and they are multiplying I see.........hope all is well my friend.
Rick L. Orchids ah some aren't looking so hot right now lol. But thank you
Thank you Rick l!