Caring for Mounted Orchids For many orchids, growing the amount is the most common thing. Since most orchids are 'epiphytic' or tree habitats, they can easily grow on a variety of mounting elements. Cattleya family members as well as Chilochistas, Angreacums, Bulbophyllum and Phalaenopsis all provide different species and hybrids that you can try to grow in this way. Usually, your best choice is plants that will be somewhat compact. If you try to grow large plants on mounts, the growth habit may be rather untidy and the larger pseudobulbs may not be able to support themselves. Also, terrestrials like Pfiopedilumus, Jewel Orchid and Cymbidium are not good choices because their roots should not dry out like Mount Cultures and their roots are not designed to cling to the rough surface of wood and bark.
When choosing a mount to attach to your plant, choose a material that will last a long time and is large enough to grow for several years. Cork bark, compressed tree fern slabs, hickory bark, crepe myrtle branches and driftwood are all well-liked. Remember, the main reason for growing in containers is to provide fresh media and more growing space. This problem is eliminated if the mount continues to grow, so a well-grown specimen will probably never be removed or reworked until the mount is covered or separated.
If possible, try to work with your plant when it has new growth and new roots have already started. Starting with an empty root plant, place a small pad of damp sphagnum algae between the root and the mount. New growth for cattleyas and similar sympodial plants should be in contrast to the bark, with ample space to 'climb up to the mount. For monopodial such as phalaenopsis, the new growth faces the leaves to prevent water accumulation in the crown. Tighten your plant tightly using coated floral wire (24 gauge works great) or plastic coated twist tie. Again, this material should be long lasting as it may take several months for some tree mounts to take root completely. Raffles and yarns may be more natural to look at, but the tree may break and the roots may slip before planting. Wrap the wire around the roots and algae a few times and then between the pseudobulbs for the catalyst, making sure to avoid new growth, roots or other soft spots.
How can I keep orchids fresh?
Adequate moisture is important for all orchids, but it is even more so for mounted plants. There is very little material around the roots to provide lasting moisture and you will notice that even the algae you put around the roots will dry out in a day or so. In the average home, sunroom or greenhouse you need to water your plant 3-5 times per week. The best way is to take your orchid to a sink or call and keep the whole plant wet and mounted. If you have low humidity, outdoors, or high temperatures in the summer, expect to water at least once a day in the sun. If your plant is dissatisfied with low humidity, try using a cool fog humidifier and a small fan in your growing area. Fertilizer can be applied after watering every 2-3 weeks. Temperature and light will depend on the species or hybrid you are growing. Most plants will appreciate low light and moderate temperatures for the first few weeks after mounting to avoid stress. After that, you need to adjust to the specific plant culture.
The original source of the article: Carter and holmes took from the site.
Carter and Holmes Orchids have been involved in inventing orchid hybrids since 1947. They are famous all over the world for producing quality orchids including Cattleya hybrid and Mericlon.
Bill Carter and Wayne Holmes sold Catalina flowers as cut flowers, when corsage flowers were in high demand on Valentine's Day, Easter and Mother's Day.
They began the hybridization of orchids in the 1950s and built their own state-of-the-art laboratory for seed and tissue culture in the 1970s. As a result of their hybridizing program, Carter and Holmes have gained worldwide recognition as the source of amazing orchids - in particular, the art-shade Catalyst. They ship many generations of orchids to amateur and commercial growers across the United States and in many countries around the world.
From Monday to Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., visitors are welcomed to their greenhouse.
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