A vertical planter system for exposing the roots of orchids and other epiphytic plants to the open air, includes a support structure having a frame with a base end for housing a humidifying tray and a top end for housing an irrigation tray. The planter system further includes a support member for mounting a growing medium. The irrigation tray includes small holes such that when water is introduced into the tray, the water passes through the holes to mimic natural rainfall and allow the water to trickle from the tray to the epiphytic plant and roots, thereby avoiding the rotting of plant roots that occurs from over watering when plant roots are concealed in plant containers and pots.