I wonder if someone use pure Seramis (german burned clay gravel, as I know it is not available in USA) for Phragmipediums ? I found a few threads on other forums, but with too little information if it works good.
I think, this is very good in case of water absorption as it soak much more than any Leca like material, but there is always air between granules.
But I have some doubts if Seramis granules are not to dense for thick roots of for example P.kovachii or P.besseae. Seramis granules are 3-6 mm long.
In case of Leca, there is a lot of free space, which roots can fill.
However, perhaps I am wrong and Phragmipedium roots grow without any problems in pure Seramis ? I hope, somebody would reply.

Piotr

There was a discussion here recently about the same thing. Just do a search here and you will find it.

Seramis or calcined clay pellets ? But I cannot find there clear answer for my question. Just that it is good for orchids... I wish to know if someone use it for Phragmipedium and it turned out ok after some time of growing...

They do have it here in the states, and I would imagine that if it is in larger pieces, like 1cm, that it would work fine.

Seramis or calcined clay pellets ? But I cannot find there clear answer for my question. Just that it is good for orchids... I wish to know if someone use it for Phragmipedium and it turned out ok after some time of growing...

Here is the link http://www.slipperorchidforum.com/forum/showthread.php?t=260171&highlight=seramis

From the sound of it I think you would do fine using it for your Phrags.

Thanks for all replies. I will try to grow my P.kovachii and P.besseae in this medium and let you know for a few months how they grow.

Piotr

Yes please keep us posted and good luck!

Great good luck!

Thanks ! Do you know, what are the most popular medium for this species ?
I know, that many growers use pure PrimeAgra, others Piping Rocks mix, others mix described on phragmipediumkovachii.com.
Do you know others ?

Piotr

I would think the bark mix is more commonly used.

I have good results with a mix 45/45 % CHC /pin bark + 10% pouzzolan. I added a little bit oyster shell grits.