Where Can You Find The Proper Medium To Repot Orchids?
Deanna Asked
Where can you find the proper medium to repot orchids?
The Gardener’s Answer
Hi, Deanna: The most common orchids sold are the Phalenopsis, which are epiphytes, meaning that they literally grow on trees in their native habitat. So, it makes sense that that they would not have an abundant amount of rich heavy soil for the root to grow in. This is why it is so important to plant them in a bark-based soil. Orchids are quite particular about the soil medium they are planted in, so you are wise to look for the proper soil. Have you checked with your local garden centers? This is where you should start. Many garden centers have a large inventory of tropical plants and carry different soil for specific plants such as succulents and orchids. The orchid mixture should be a mixture of bark, peat, and perlite or vermiculite. Different brands have different combinations of these ingredients, but as long as they are mainly bark any of them will be fine. This allows for good air circulation that is essential for the health of your orchid. It may be that the garden centers in your area do not carry a soil specifically for orchids, but they may have all of the ingredients so you could ask if they could mix up a small bag for you. If you cannot find it anywhere in your area, let us know at the Plant kingdom in Louisville and we would be happy to send a bag to you. You can reach us at (502) 893-7333.
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