Possible mount for micro mini orchid?

[birdybrain]

I'm wondering if I could mount a small miniature orchid on this ponytail palm? If it's really not a good idea, that's fine. But if it would work, does anyone have suggestions for something that stays really small and likes to be on the dry side? I water usually twice per week, so I'd rather avoid something that needs misting daily. My humidity runs 40-60% and there's enough light in my windowsill set up that my Dendrobiums seem happy. Any suggestions?



Edit: I guess I should include some measurements. The trunk is 6" tall from the base to the leaves and the area where I would mount the orchid is 3" wide.

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[Leafmite]

As long as the orchid and palm share the same environmental needs, it should be fine.

[stonedragonfarms]

Interesting thought mounting something on a ponytail palm; I can't really think of anything that would be sustainable mounted with such minimal water though--hopefully the others will chime in. I grow quite a few plants on mounts, in a greenhouse, and I find that I need to water most of them at least once daily. On the flip side, you never know if you don't try; perhaps start with something in the dendrobium family, since you know that these will grow under your current conditions, and go from there...
Just my 2c,
Adam

[RosieC]

I think you would need to water more with most mounted orchids. I water my mounts daily or every couple of days. It might be worth a try though.

[Leafmite]

I just looked up conditions for ponytail palms and one mini that might work is ascocentrum pumilum. For me, it is pretty tough. It is quite small, doesn't seem to mind that I forget to water it (for weeks on end!) seems to grow anywhere, and has cute flowers. If you want something that needs more water but takes shade, theobroma cacao trees are perfect for those types as they like lots of water. Good luck!

[birdybrain]

The pumilum is a super cute plant! It sounds like this will be a good fit for a bright light situation. The ponytail palm though actually does well in my home in medium light, so I think I could even go with an orchid that didn't have to have bright light. I'm still researching, but haven't yet found any other option.

I guess the pumilum would benefit from some sphag on the roots to help the plant deal with only a twice week watering. Do you have yours mounted with sphag?

Thanks for the suggestions!

[Leafmite]

Mine does have a moss pad about the size as a tablespoon. It blooms reliably and puts out new growths each year. This year, mine had a scale problem but I think I have it under control now. It actually was chosen by one of my daughters for the cuteness factor. It isn't fragrant like most of mine but the small size and ease of care makes it a very decent orchid.

---------- Post added at 11:07 AM ---------- Previous post was at 11:00 AM ----------

Another choice that might work is podangis dactylocera. It is a little larger, though. Good luck!