A question about moss

[HiOrcDen]

I am just curious... taking into account, all else being equal, why not use sphagnum moss vs any type of mix, simply for the sake of convenience, that you don't have to water as often? Agin, I emphasize, all else being equal.

Is it possible that the Orchid grows faster in a mix which dries faster, since you water more often?

Also, is it very important to use real New Zealand Sphagnum? In fact a great breeder who I've purchased from, suggested specifically a certain brand, as the only one she will use. I have some high quality Sphagnum called Super Moss from Santa Barbara., which does not specify NZ. Is this any less suitable.

Anyway, my first question is really what I need to know about haha

[Ray]

Originally Posted by HiOrcDen

I am just curious... taking into account, all else being equal, why not use sphagnum moss vs any type of mix, simply for the sake of convenience, that you don't have to water as often? Agin, I emphasize, all else being equal.

What do you mean by "all else being equal"? The potting medium one uses is greatly affected by the rest of the cultural parameters, and there is no single medium that is perfect for all plants. In my growing environment, I had to replace sphagnum every six months at the outside.

Is it possible that the Orchid grows faster in a mix which dries faster, since you water more often?

The opposite it true - the greater the water accessibility, the faster a plant will grow.

Also, is it very important to use real New Zealand Sphagnum? In fact a great breeder who I've purchased from, suggested specifically a certain brand, as the only one she will use. I have some high quality Sphagnum called Super Moss from Santa Barbara., which does not specify NZ. Is this any less suitable.

Different sphagnum species have different structures that affect their quality as a potting medium. Where it grows can affect how it turns out, even among a single species, and even within that species grown in NZ, there are differences in quality.

Most commercial supplies of NZ sphag are farmed to maximize quality.