What growing medium is suitable for newly collected wild orchids?

CultivationFor newly collected wild orchids, the growing medium is crucial. Generally, soil from their place of origin can be used to make up the mix. Since the native medium ofnewly collected wild orchidsis mostly humus soil, which has strong water retention and high stickiness, 1/2 to 2/3 coarse river sand should be mixed in during preparation to allow air passage and help the root system recover. In addition, peat soil can also replace the native soil, and likewise needs 1/2 to 2/3 coarse river sand mixed in; besides these, brick granules, clay pebbles, fern roots, coconut husk coir, sawdust ash and so on can also be used as growing medium. In short, the medium fornewly collected wild orchidsshould be a material that is loose, air-permeable and has good water retention. (Chen Hanli)