| Wire products are essential
to orchid growing. They are used to fasten, secure, stabilize and hang
orchids. Although it is easy to make your own, it is more convenient
to buy them pre-made. Rhizome clips are the most straightforward way to
stabilize a newly potted sympodial orchid. Styles are available for
both plastic and clay pots. You have passed the potting test when you
can secure a mature Cattleya with one properly placed rhizome clip. Occasionally,
a tall plant needs a little extra support. We can use a straight stake that
fastens to the edge of the pot for this purpose. A ring stake (hoop) will help
contain an unruly orchid as well as provide support. Single and double
pot hangers in an assortment of lengths allow us to place a pot almost
anywhere. Many growers hang their whole collection using "s"
hooks to achieve intermediate heights. Baskets are hung with 3 or 4 strand
light gauge wire and the same 14 or 17 gauge wire is useful for attaching
plants to mounts or engineering a Vanda into a basket.
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