A Detailed Guide to Processing Potting Media for Potted Orchids

You can use decomposed pine bark plus decomposed peanut shells and add some red brick granules; if conditions allow, you can buy some kiryu stone or perlite. These materials are enough for growing orchids. This kind of potting medium has very high air permeability, but its water retention may be a bit poor, and it does not hold fertilizer for long either. The advantage is that when you water frequently, water does not easily accumulate. This potting medium is a hard-type medium and is very suitable for beginners growing orchids.

The old bark on pine trees that has already rotted is relatively fresh and raw. If it is used directly mixed into the potting medium without being fully decomposed, it will ferment later and generate heat, thus affecting the growth of potted orchids. Only the decomposed pine bark that can be crushed by hand and is slightly darker in color is a safer orchid potting medium.

After collecting relatively raw pine bark, it must first be degreased. Cut it into small granules, then boil it in water for about 30 minutes and it is done. After degreasing, we still need to carry out the next step, which is fermentation. But bark is relatively hard and difficult to decompose. A short period of composting only makes the bark a relatively safe substrate. At this time, its nutritional value cannot be brought into full play, so it is recommended to ferment it for a longer time.