Moss or Bark??

[orchidgirl82]

Hi Everyone,

I have 12 orchids potted in clear pots in moss and they are doing fine...but lately i'm wondering what is better to pot them in moss or bark. I know either work, but is bark better to avoid root rot since it dries out faster?

I would love to know what is best moving forward as I feel like i'm constantly worried about rot. Is mixing a little of both together a good option??

Thank you!

[Ray]

If they are doing well in moss, you've obviously figured out how to deal with it in your conditions, so why change?

There is no right or wrong answer in general, but you DO need to consider the needs of the plants, your conditions, and watering habits, as they all play a role in successful culture.

Also don't forget that there is no reason a medium needs to dry out between waterings, but it must allow free air flow to the roots.

If you are looking to "fluff-up" the moss a bit, 50/50 with coarse bark can be a good idea.

[orchidgirl82]

Thank you! I think I will mix them a bit on the next repot...i just find that the moss stays wet a little too long which I know promotes rot.

Thanks!

[Orchid126]

I think it also depends on the type of orchid that you grow, where you live, and as Ray says, on your watering habits. If you tend to water often, then bark would be better for you. If you forget to water and the time in between stretches, then moss would be better for you. If you live in a steamy humid climate, then bark would be better for you. If you live in a dry climate, then moss would be better for you. If the plant likes to dry out quickly, then bark would be better. If the plant likes to stay evenly moist, than moss would be better.

You have to look at several things before you decide. If you feel that the moss is staying a little too wet too long, then by all means, mix the two, and keep checking until you get the proportions right for your needs and habits. And often, plants within the same genera are individual and have slightly different needs. Close observation will let you know.

[Andrew]

Ray's "if it ain't broke don't fix it" advice is spot on. However, this shouldn't stop you experimenting with other media to see if another mix works better for you. If you are thinking of changing your mix, try a couple of orchids in the mix rather than your whole collection. That way you don't risk losing all of your orchids when the new mix doesn't perform as well as you hoped.

[orchidgirl82]

Great advice.
Thank you!