Can potting media go bad in bag?

[piaffe97]

Maybe this is a silly question, but I just opened a bag of potting media (bark, coconut husk, charcoal) that someone bought me from American Orchid Society over a year ago. When I dumped it into the bucket of water, it smelled moldy! Should I trash it, or will it be ok? I'm trying to get my phals out of moss and into something more breathable. Thanks!!

[scy]

I think if it smells moldy, it's best to throw it out. I bought Better Gro Orchid Mix and only had it for 3 months when I noticed the medium smelled moldy and then found beginning signs of mold when I unpotted to check.

I would make sure that it is stored in a dry, cool place and check that there is no moisture in the bag with potting mix to avoid any future issues.

[tucker85]

Although I've never experienced orchid medium going bad in the bag, I suppose anything is possible. My only suggestion would be to go by the general appearance of the medium. If it looks like it's breaking down or if you actually see mold growing in it I wouldn't use it. If it looks good but smells a little musty, personally I wouldn't worry about that. If you're hesitant then just throw it out and get some fresh medium. Good luck.

[RosieC]

Yes it can go bad in the bag, and yes you should trash it.

I made the mistake of using some that smelled bad the first two times I ever re-potted orchids. I'm now convinced that's why both orchids almost died. A third one that I put it in for just two weeks (before I got something better) struggled for a long while as well.

Orchid mix should be bone dry in the bag. If it isn't then it can and will go bad. The stuff I buy now is so dry there is a health warning on the bag about not breathing the dust.