How do you mount an orchid?

Mounting an orchid involves carefully preparing the plant and securing it to a suitable backing, mimicking its natural growing environment. This technique is especially beneficial for epiphytic orchid species that naturally grow on trees or rocks rather than in soil, promoting optimal root health and air circulation.

The Process of Mounting an Orchid

Mounting an orchid requires a gentle touch and adherence to specific steps to ensure the plant's health and successful attachment.

Step-by-Step Guide to Mounting Your Orchid

Follow these steps for effectively mounting your orchid, ensuring its roots are well-positioned and secured:

1. Preparation of the Orchid: First, the orchid has been picked clean of the old potting media and dead roots have been removed. This critical initial step ensures a healthy foundation, preventing potential rot or disease from old, decaying material.
2. Padding the Mount: Next, place a bit of moss on the mount to pad the orchid. This layer of moss serves as a soft cushion for the roots and, importantly, helps retain essential moisture around the root system.
3. Positioning the Roots: Then, gently splay open the roots so that they wrap around the mount. Distribute the roots evenly across the mounting surface to encourage widespread attachment and balanced growth.
4. Managing Moisture: Before securing, squeeze the moss to remove excess water. This prevents waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. The moss should be damp, not soaking wet, providing adequate humidity without saturation.
5. Securing the Orchid: Then, begin wrapping moss to cover the orchid's roots. Use a thin, durable, and rot-resistant material such as fishing line (monofilament), clear floral wire, or strips of nylon stocking to secure both the moss and the orchid firmly to the mount. Wrap gently but snugly, ensuring the plant is stable and will not shift, yet without constricting the delicate roots.

Selecting Your Mounting Materials

Choosing the right materials is crucial for the longevity and health of your mounted orchid.

• Mounting Surface: Common and effective choices include natural cork bark, dried hardwood driftwood, tree fern plaques, or even coconut husks. Ensure the material is clean, non-toxic, and porous enough to allow for good drainage and air circulation.
• Mounting Media (Moss): Sphagnum moss is widely recommended for its superior water retention capabilities and airy structure, which are highly beneficial for orchid roots.
• Securing Material: Monofilament fishing line is popular because it's strong and virtually invisible. Coated wire or soft fabric strips (like pantyhose or strips of old t-shirts) can also be used, ensuring they do not cut into the plant's delicate tissues.

Post-Mounting Care and Considerations

After mounting, consistent and appropriate care is vital for your orchid to thrive in its new setup.

• Watering: Mounted orchids typically require more frequent watering than potted ones because their roots are exposed and dry out much faster. Daily misting or soaking the entire mount in room-temperature water for 10-15 minutes a few times a week is often necessary, depending on your environment.
• Humidity: High ambient humidity is extremely beneficial for mounted orchids. Consider placing them in a humidity tray, a mini-greenhouse, or in naturally humid environments like a bright bathroom.
• Air Circulation: Good air movement is essential to prevent fungal issues and promote healthy root growth, especially in humid conditions. Ensure proper ventilation around your mounted orchid.
• Light: Provide the appropriate light levels for your specific orchid species. Most mounted epiphytic orchids prefer bright, indirect light.

Benefits of Mounting Orchids

Mounting orchids can offer several distinct advantages, particularly for epiphytic varieties:

• Mimics Natural Habitat: This method closely replicates how many orchids grow in their native environments, allowing their roots to breathe and experience natural drying cycles.
• Prevents Root Rot: The excellent air circulation and rapid drying on a mount significantly reduce the risk of root rot, a common issue in overly wet potting media.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Mounted orchids can create stunning visual displays, transforming into living art pieces that showcase the plant's natural growth habit.

Comparison of Common Mounting Surfaces