Orchids are beautiful additions to your indoor or outdoor garden, but they don’t thrive in regular soil, which is why choosing the right potting media is vital for their health. Always select a media mix that has components that will last longer so you don’t have to repot often.  Here are some of the most popular options to consider.

A Guide to Potting Media for Orchids

1. Bark

Fir, cedar, and cypress shredded bark provide a natural aesthetic and a pleasant aroma.  Bark is great organic material that provides consistent nutrient release and moisture control.  To avoid having to repot annually, use a premium bark  which is known for slower decomposition.  Our preference is orchiata bark (Pinus radiata bark) with our Cattleyas.

2. Sphagnum Moss

This is one of the most commonly used media for Oncidiums and Odontoglossums.  Sphagnum moss is easy to access, it’s affordable and can be used on many orchid types.  It does retain quite a bit of moisture for constant easy release to the roots.  Great for younger plants that need more moisture.  Be careful when using it solely with mature plants, as there can be a tendency to overwater.

3.  Coconut Husk Chips & Coir

Coir is the fibrous material that surrounds the fruit of the coconut, and the husk is the exterior shell. Coir can be used on its own or with husk chips to create a beneficial media. The fibers absorb excess moisture while draining efficiently, which keeps roots hydrated without getting soggy. Husk chips decompose slowly while providing enough air circulation for the roots as they grow.

4. Cinder & Stone

For heavier orchid pots, opt for small pieces of cinder or cobblestone that maintain the right humidity and drainage for the plant. Their weight also anchors the plant, which is especially useful for varieties that tend to be top-heavy.  Cinder is often chosen as a more affordable alternative to bark.

4. Media Additives – Perlite & Charcoal

Perlite is cinder that has been fired up to 2400F.  When heated it becomes lightweight.  Perlite is an excellent additive to create aeration and moisture control in your media.  Another great additive is charcoal.  Charcoal is a natural source of potassium so it’s great for mature plants getting ready to bloom.  It also aids in cleansing the media.

For more information on orchid media types for different orchid varieties, read our blog post.

For Hawaii and the mainland, Akatsuka Orchid Gardens has been the wholesale and retail orchid nursery of choice since 1974. The family-owned business offers unique products for people looking to grow a diverse variety of orchids. Call (808) 967-8234 or visit their website for more information on their specialty varieties.