Detailed Explanation of Volcanic Rock as a New Medium for Orchid Cultivation

In recent years, with the acceleration oforchidcultivationindustrialization,orchidgrowing media standardization has also been put on the agenda. In this process, the main trend is granulation. In the field of granularorchidgrowing media, there is a wide variety of types, each with its own advantages and disadvantages, too numerous to describe one by one. Based on my half-year of observation and trial use, the "pumice" available on the Zhejiang market - volcanic rock processed into bottom stones and orchid stones - is very suitable for batchcultivationtrials. Bottom stones have a diameter of 15-30mm, orchid stones have a diameter of 7-15mm. Bottom stones can be used as-is; orchid stones can either be directly potted or mixed with Emei Xiantu (Emei immortal soil), peat granules, brick and tile fragments, etc. I used a ratio of half volcanic rock and half Xiantu for potting. The method is to sift out the fine powder from the Xiantu (for use with other flowers), then mix the granules evenly with the volcanic rock, lay the bottom stones below, and then theorchid plantscan be planted in. The first watering needs to be thorough. Generally, for the purpose of increasing environmental humidity, it is sufficient to frequently sprinkle water on the potted plants and the pot surface. My more than 300 pots of orchids all grew well after half a year of trial use. According to manufacturer Wu Jianmin, its physical properties are particularly excellent - it is light and not easily crumbled or pulverized, so there is no risk of clogging inside the pot. According to measurements, particle bulk density g/cm3, 0.459-0.65; loose bulk density kg/m3, 240-450; porosity 71.8-81%; compressive strength MPa 0.53-1.76; water absorption 26.6-64.2%; thermal conductivity W/m.k, 0.23-0.46. All are superior to general stone materials. In particular, the pores are smooth - it absorbs water yet does not become waterlogged, ensuring a relatively high balance rate between water and gas inside the pot. As for its chemical composition, aside from lacking nitrogen, it is almost not lacking in major elements such as silicon, iron, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, and sodium, as well as trace elements. When used alone, if nitrogen is supplemented in time, it can enableorchid plantsto grow normally. If combined with Xiantu and peat, they can complement each other. It is a rare and excellent medium. Volcanic rock is a mineral resource very abundant in China. It has wide sources, is easy to process, convenient to use, and very hygienic. I think it will quickly be adopted by orchid entrepreneurs and the broad community of orchid enthusiasts, and it will also have an impact on the standardization and industrialization of orchidcultivation. Address: No. 68 Longxi South Road, Huzhou City 213000 Tel: (0572) 2053648, 2053650, 13867276537