Potting Media

➢Mixture should remain moist and water will drain out readily but never become too wet or soggy. An ideal medium should preferably be inert, resistant to organic decomposition as well as porous to ensure adequate aeration for root respiration, less costly and easily available.

➢ Monopodial epiphytic orchids (Aerides, Rhynchostylis) perform best on chunks of hard wood charcoal only. Charcoal allows free air movement, retains moisture and slows down unwanted acid built up.

➢ Sympodial epiphytic orchids (Cattleya sp and Dendrobium sp) have marked improvement in the growth and flowering in tree fern fiber over other media. Tree fern fiber loose fibrous quality and can hold orchid roots firmly, allowing sufficient air space and excess water to drain out.

Potting and Transplanting in Spring Season

• Should not be disturbed during flowering or least active vegetative growth stage.
• All tools used in potting, including pots and crocks should be thoroughly washed and dried.
• 7-10 cm diameter community pots, planted 20-25 plants.
• Use stakes (in epiphytic) and if put in logs, blocks of tree fern tie up with string.
• Sympodial planted in the edge of the container while monopodial in the centre.
• Repot, if only pot bound by roots.