Using Coconut Husk Chips as the potting medium for orchids can be an effective and sustainable option. The husk promotes good water drainage and promotes proper root aeration. But it is important to wash the husk carefully to remove any salt residue.
You can also use pumice, a lightweight, inorganic growing medium. It is highly porous and can hold up to 50% of its weight in water.
If you want a heavier potting medium, you can mix brick chunks into your orchid potting mix. However, this can add unnecessary weight to your orchid pot. It is best to break the chunks into smaller pieces. You can also add some small pebbles to the bottom of your container to keep the roots from sinking.
Orchids are epiphytes, meaning they grow on other living things. This makes them different from other plants. If you are using a potting medium that is too wet, it can kill your orchid. To avoid this, make sure your potting medium has excellent drainage.
If you are planning on using coconut husks for your orchids, make sure you buy the right kind. This will ensure that your orchids will get the moisture they need to stay healthy.
You can also use sphagnum moss as your potting medium. This is a slow-growing plant that forms flat colonies in freshwater swamps.
Sphagnum moss is often sold in compressed bricks. You can also use it to decorate your orchid block. Ideally, you should pack the moss loosely into the container.
Read the complete step-by-step guide on Planting Orchids in Coconut Husk
How to Grow Orchids on Wood Mounts
Depending on the species, some orchids can grow on wood mounts. Some of the most popular ones include Phalaenopsis and Dendrobium. Other species prefer shade. For these orchids, a palm tree or a tall horizontal branch can provide a perfect location.
A tree-dwelling orchid may take months to adapt to its new surroundings. Orchids need time to develop their roots, which can stretch out on the bark of a tree. They will soon begin to attach to the tree trunk and develop new growths. It is important to allow a year for the orchid to establish itself before it is mounted.
Orchids have a symbiotic relationship with trees. They help the tree by absorbing nutrients that it requires without requiring it. They also produce new pseudobulbs when the root system grows. This ensures that the bloom cycle will continue successfully.
Before tying an orchid to a tree, it is essential to select the right tie material. Ideally, hemp or pantyhose are the best choices. However, other materials such as cotton string and biodegradable strings can be used as well.
Orchids will usually need to be misted with water a couple of times a week during the dry season. Moss can be added to the roots, but make sure that it is not between the orchid and the tree. A thin layer of moss will protect the roots and save on watering.
Once the roots have attached, it is important to secure the orchid tightly to the bark of the tree. The best way to do this is to wrap the roots against the trunk of the tree.
How to Grow Orchids in Charcoal
Using charcoal to grow orchids can help the plant to thrive. It has been shown that charcoal helps to increase the pH of the soil. By the same token, it works to protect the plant from fungi and viruses.
It can also help to heal open wounds. There are several ways to use activated charcoal to grow orchids. Depending on your preference, you can either spread a thick layer of the substance over the plant’s soil or add it in layers alternating with other growing mediums.
Activated charcoal is also great for protecting plants from viruses. It has been proven that charcoal can help cure the problem of orchid root burn. It has also been found that charcoal has the ability to heal open wounds.
In contrast, charcoal cannot give your orchids humidity. Therefor, it’s advisable to place a coco peat mat or other material over the plant to increase its humidity.
Another tip is, to water your plant early in the day, which will help to prevent mosquitoes from breeding in and around your orchids.
The best way to water your orchid is to make sure it is kept moist. But be careful not to overwater your plant. Overwatering can cause rot in the root system. Read how to water your orchids correctly.