I'll just try to explain with pictures
Find the desired mounting material:
Determine best viewing angle for display (this is optional as the plant ends up deciding what is its best viewing angle eventually).
Determine the best mounting point, taking the plant's habit, growth direction and size into consideration.
Add a small amount of moisture retaining materials on the mount point.
Attach the orchid using preferred method (twist-tie, fishing line, silk thread, etc).
Test the integrity of the attachment.
Test 1: Standing still
Test 2: Worst case scenario*
Now try to be realistic when testing your worst case scenario. Dont try to drop the mount 10 stories down and expect the assembly to survive
Optional: Add some more moisture retaining material around the new mount's root zone.
Watch the plant as it takes hold and grows into the mount. [June 2007]
Fast-Forward. New roots taking hold. [September 2007]
Fast-Forward again. Its the one on the right: [March 2008]
Fast-Forward again. More roots and new canes: [April 2008]
Fast-Forward again. Its the one on the front-right: [May 2008]
Updated Picture: [July 8 2008]
The new growth from April is now proceeding well on the left side.
Close up of the root system:
The underside of the mount. The roots have nearly wrapped all the way around the mount.
I would like to add: The log itself or wood-mounting material will provide negligible nutrition to the plant. You will still need to provide it with supplemental fertilizers as needed, similar to potted orchids.
I hope this helps,
John
Hybrid Mode
