Mounted Phals

[cneos]

Harry Philips of Andy's Orchids recently shared a great idea for growing phalaenopsis as mounted plants. In this case, the mount is a vanda basket. When turned on its side, the basket replicates a phal's natural habitat in a tree crotch. Only drawback for this approach is wghat to do to display them in the house or at a show.

I've moved a few phals into this new environment and am happy with the results. I'd be interested to hear if any OB members are growing this way and for your comments.

Photos show a 'modified' technique - gutter guard (hardware cloth) to line the basket, then a 1/4" layer of sphagnum moss, then well-draining bark mix, then at top is covering of gutter guard (instead of fishing line wrap) to hold everything in the basket.

All plants are in 6" vanda baskets ... roots are teased through the gutter guard.