Mount Orchids are known for their exotic beauty, but many people don’t realize that they can be displayed in a more natural, visually striking way—by mounting them. While orchids are typically grown in pots, mounting orchids replicates their natural growing conditions, offering an aesthetic appeal that is difficult to match. If you’re a beginner who is eager to give this unique method a try, this ultimate guide will provide you with everything you need to know to successfully mount orchids in your home or garden.
What is Orchid Mounting?
Orchid mounting is the practice of attaching the orchid to a surface, such as wood, cork bark, or a tree branch, instead of growing it in a pot. This method allows the plant’s roots to grow naturally while clinging to its support, much like orchids in the wild. Mounted orchids rely on the air and moisture in their environment for nourishment rather than being submerged in soil. This approach mimics how many orchids grow in tropical forests, where they thrive as epiphytes, attaching themselves to trees or rocks to absorb water and nutrients from the air and rain.
Why Mount Orchids?
Mounting orchids is a great way to create a display that is both functional and visually captivating. Here are a few key reasons why you should consider mounting orchids:
Mimics Natural Habitat: In the wild, many orchids grow attached to trees, rocks, or other surfaces, with their roots exposed to the air. Mounting orchids replicates these natural conditions, offering a more authentic growing environment. This can help the orchid grow in a way that is closer to how it would behave in its natural habitat, resulting in healthier plants.
Aesthetic Appeal: Mounted orchids can add an exotic touch to any room, garden, or space. When mounted on driftwood, bark, or other unique surfaces, they create a visually stunning, natural display that is different from the typical potted orchid arrangement. The textures and shapes of the mounts provide a beautiful backdrop for the orchids to thrive on.
Better Air Circulation: One of the key benefits of mounting orchids is the enhanced airflow around the roots. When orchids are in pots, their roots can often become stagnant, leading to issues like root rot. By mounting orchids, you ensure better ventilation around the roots, reducing the risk of rot and promoting healthy root growth. This can be especially beneficial for orchids that need a high level of humidity and a well-ventilated environment.
What You’ll Need
Before you dive into the mounting process, it’s important to gather all the necessary materials. Here’s a list of what you’ll need to successfully mount your orchid:
Orchid Plant: Start with a healthy orchid that has strong, established roots. Some of the best orchids for mounting include Phalaenopsis, Cattleya, and Dendrobium.
Mounting Surface: Choose a sturdy, natural surface like wood, cork bark, driftwood, or a tree branch. These surfaces provide a solid structure for the roots to cling to and grow on. Look for something with grooves or textures that allow the roots to attach securely.
Sphagnum Moss: Sphagnum moss is crucial for keeping the roots hydrated. It also helps to retain moisture around the roots, which is essential for the orchid’s growth while it establishes itself on the mount.
Fishing Line or Wire: Use fishing line or wire to secure the orchid to the mount. These materials should be gentle enough to avoid damaging the roots but strong enough to hold the orchid in place.
Scissors or Gardening Tools: You’ll need a sharp tool to trim the roots if necessary and to cut the fishing line or wire when securing the orchid to the mount.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Mount Orchids
Prepare the Mount: The first step in mounting your orchid is selecting the right piece of wood or bark. Make sure the mount is stable and large enough to support the orchid’s growth. Wood, cork bark, or driftwood work best because they provide natural textures that orchids can easily attach to. You may also want to soak the mount in water for a few hours before you begin to ensure it doesn’t dry out too quickly.
Clean the Roots: Gently remove the orchid from its pot and clean the roots by trimming any dead, rotting, or damaged parts. This is also a good time to untangle the roots if they’re knotted or tangled. It’s important to ensure that the roots are healthy and free from any debris to make mounting easier.
Moisten the Roots: After cleaning, soak the orchid roots in water for around 30 minutes. This helps hydrate the roots and makes them more pliable, which will make it easier to attach them to the mount.
Position the Orchid on the Mount: Carefully position the orchid on the chosen mount, making sure that the roots are spread out evenly and the plant’s crown (the growth tip) is facing upward. Try to arrange the roots in a way that allows them to naturally spread out and attach to the surface. It’s important that the orchid is in an upright position for optimal growth.
Secure the Orchid: Use fishing line or soft wire to gently tie the orchid to the mount. The wire or fishing line should be secured tightly enough to keep the orchid in place, but not so tight that it cuts into the roots or prevents airflow. As the roots grow, they will eventually attach to the surface and provide stability for the plant.
Add Moss: Once the orchid is securely attached, cover the roots with sphagnum moss. The moss helps keep the roots hydrated and provides additional humidity, which orchids love. Make sure the moss is not packed too tightly, as you want to leave some air space for the roots to breathe.
Find the Right Spot: Choose a location that provides bright, indirect sunlight for your mounted orchid. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight, as it can lead to sunburn, especially if the orchid is mounted on wood or bark. Additionally, place the mount in an area with good air circulation to encourage root growth and prevent rot.
Watering and Care: Mounted orchids generally need more frequent watering than potted orchids. Water them by misting the roots or soaking the entire mount in water for a few minutes. Make sure the moss stays damp, but avoid over-wetting it, as this can cause rot. You can also fertilize the orchid with a diluted orchid fertilizer once a month to promote healthy growth.
Common Orchid Mounting Mistakes to Avoid
While mounting orchids is relatively simple, beginners often make a few common mistakes. Here are some to watch out for:
Over-tightening the Mounting Material: It’s easy to get excited about securing the orchid, but you must avoid tying the plant too tightly to the mount. Doing so can damage the roots and restrict airflow, which can hinder the plant’s growth. Use gentle ties that allow the plant to breathe.
Exposing the Orchid to Direct Sunlight: Mounted orchids need bright but indirect light. Direct sunlight can cause the plant to dry out or burn. Always place mounted orchids in a spot with filtered light.
Infrequent Watering: Mounted orchids dry out much faster than potted orchids, so you’ll need to water them more frequently. Make sure you check the moisture levels regularly and water when necessary.If the moss appears dry, it’s time to water.
Using the Wrong Mounting Surface: Some types of wood, such as cedar, can leach harmful oils and chemicals into the plant. Avoid using such materials, and stick to safe options like cork bark, driftwood, or untreated wood.
Types of Orchids Ideal for Mounting
While most orchids can be mounted, some varieties thrive better than others. Consider the following types for mounting:
Phalaenopsis: Known for their elegant, long-lasting flowers, Phalaenopsis orchids are perfect for beginners. They adapt well to mounted setups and are easy to care for.
Cattleya: Cattleyas are large, fragrant orchids with showy blooms. These orchids tend to do well mounted on wood or bark, and their striking flowers make them an excellent choice for display.
Dendrobium: These orchids often grow in cooler climates and make great mounted plants, especially when grown on tree branches or driftwood.
Final Thoughts
Mounting orchids is a rewarding way to showcase these beautiful plants, especially for those who want to recreate the natural, airy conditions in which orchids thrive. Although it may seem intimidating at first, once you’ve learned the basic steps and tips, you’ll be able to mount your orchids with ease. Whether you’re growing Phalaenopsis, Cattleya, or Dendrobium orchids, mounting them is a wonderful way to enhance their beauty while mimicking the conditions of their natural habitat. Be patient, and with the right care, your mounted orchids will thrive and reward you with their breathtaking blooms for years to come!
FAQS
What types of orchids are best for mounting?
The best orchids for mounting include varieties like Phalaenopsis, Cattleya, and Dendrobium. These orchids thrive in mounted setups and adapt well to the open-air environment created by mounting. Their roots are strong and can easily attach to surfaces like bark, driftwood, or wood.
Can I mount any orchid, or are some types not suitable?
While most orchids can be mounted, some varieties are better suited for mounting than others. Orchids that are epiphytic, meaning they naturally grow on trees or other surfaces, are ideal for mounting. However, terrestrial orchids, which grow in soil, may not adapt well to mounted environments. Always check the species of your orchid before deciding to mount it.
How do I prepare my orchid for mounting?
To prepare your orchid for mounting, gently remove it from its pot and clean the roots. Trim any damaged or dead roots and untangle them if necessary. Soak the roots in water for about 30 minutes to hydrate them and make them more flexible before attaching them to the mount.
How do I secure the orchid to the mount?
Use fishing line or soft wire to secure the orchid to the mount. Wrap the fishing line gently around the orchid and the mount to hold the plant in place. Make sure it’s not too tight to avoid restricting airflow or damaging the roots. The roots will eventually attach themselves to the surface as they grow.
What should I mount orchids on?
Orchids can be mounted on various surfaces, including wood, cork bark, driftwood, or tree branches. These materials provide textures and surfaces that the orchid roots can easily cling to. Make sure the material is untreated to avoid introducing harmful chemicals to the plant.
How often should I water mounted orchids?
Mounted orchids tend to dry out faster than potted ones. Water them regularly, either by misting the roots or soaking the entire mount in water for a few minutes. It’s essential to keep the moss damp and ensure the roots receive enough moisture. You may need to water more frequently depending on your local climate and humidity levels.
Can I use regular potting mix when mounting orchids?
No, you should not use regular potting mix for mounted orchids. Instead, use sphagnum moss to keep the roots hydrated. Sphagnum moss retains moisture without suffocating the roots, which is vital for orchid health when mounted.
How much light do mounted orchids need?
Mounted orchids require bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can cause the roots to dry out and the plant to burn. Make sure to place your mounted orchids in an area with good light but not in the path of harsh, direct sunlight.
Can I mount orchids on any type of wood?
Not all woods are safe for mounting orchids. Avoid using woods like cedar because they contain oils that can harm your orchid. Instead, opt for safe, untreated woods like cork bark, driftwood, or other natural materials. These provide the right conditions for orchids to attach and grow without causing harm.
How long does it take for orchids to establish on a mount?
It can take a few months for orchids to become fully established on a mount. During this time, their roots will gradually attach to the surface and begin to grow. Patience is key, as it can take time for the orchid to adapt to its new growing conditions.
Can I mount orchids outside?
Yes, you can mount orchids outside, but only if you live in a climate that’s suitable for orchids. Tropical and subtropical environments are ideal for mounted orchids, as they mimic the orchid’s natural habitat. If you live in a cooler climate, you may need to bring the mounted orchid inside during the winter months to protect it from cold temperatures.
Will my mounted orchids bloom more than potted orchids?
Mounted orchids can bloom just as much as potted orchids, if not more, depending on the species and care. The added airflow and natural growing conditions provided by mounting can encourage healthy growth, which in turn can lead to more blooms. Just ensure your orchid receives the proper care, including the right amount of light, water, and nutrients.