Can I harvest my own mounting stick?

[tinarae]

I have a Brassavola Nodosa that's having a baby. It's mounted on a stick, and I would like to mount the new plant, as well. Can I use something off the Birch or Maple trees in my yard?

[Ross]

I would think so. I have used apple branches. Only thing I would watch is how susceptible to decay the wood might be. Also, you need to remove the bark to be sure pathogens are gone. Depending on where you are in Northwest, you might find some Port Orford Cedar. I use splits from POC all the time.