| Although many orchids may
be successfully grown in pots, certain species prefer to be mounted on
a substrate much as they would grow in nature (see "mounts
& baskets"). The basic requirements of a mounting material
are much the same as a potting material; it must drain perfectly and not
decompose too rapidly.
The most commonly available mounting materials are slabs or logs of either tree fern, cork bark or cypress. Occasionally one can find pieces of Florida buttonwood or other hardwoods that make good mounting materials. Tree fern is the most moisture-retentive of the three and may also be found carved into decorative shapes and totems. These materials may be purchased in large sizes and sawed to meet individual requirements or purchased in assorted sizes. Any hardwood that is non-resinous and does not decay rapidly can probably be used for mounting orchids. Inquire locally to see what native species other growers might use. When using tree fern mounts, be sure to orient them so that the fibers are going up and down in order to provide proper drainage.
clockwise from top left: cork, cypress and tree fern slabs. |
