Phals in Sphagnum or bark?

[Tindomul]

Thats true. When mounting outside of the terrarium, I always use sphag just to keep humidity high around the roots.

[R Srinivasan]

Originally Posted by Tindomul1of9

Thats true. When mounting outside of the terrarium, I always use sphag just to keep humidity high around the roots.

As in Singapore and Malaysia here in the tropical part of India we grow many of our epiphyte on whole or part coconut husk. The roots of phals clamber all over merrily.I feel sad the old charm of growing them in slatted woodden baskets filled with royal fertn fibre or white sphagnus seems to have gone out of use now.

[Ross]

I have been growing Phals in bark mix for years with no problems. I definitely agree it depends on several factors. Where you live (humidity, amount of sun, etc.); average temps; how often you are willing to check root condition (sort of implies you can see the roots - thus clear pots); wether you are a heavy waterer or a light waterer; etc. For me spagnum for just about any species is a death call. I make my own mix and components vary by species group.

[R Srinivasan]

Originally Posted by rsfrid

I have been growing Phals in bark mix for years with no problems. I definitely agree it depends on several factors. Where you live (humidity, amount of sun, etc.); average temps; how often you are willing to check root condition (sort of implies you can see the roots - thus clear pots); wether you are a heavy waterer or a light waterer; etc. For me spagnum for just about any species is a death call. I make my own mix and components vary by species group.

Again on Phals and growing medium, I must add that they are one of the extreme form of epiphytic orchids as you can see the roots flattening themselves over the pot rim and when they grow on rafts. Only when they grow in deep pots with little light reaching inside the roots turn pale white and round- not a happy sight.

[Ross]

Originally Posted by R Srinivasan

Again on Phals and growing medium, I must add that they are one of the extreme form of epiphytic orchids as you can see the roots flattening themselves over the pot rim and when they grow on rafts. Only when they grow in deep pots with little light reaching inside the roots turn pale white and round- not a happy sight.

I VERY much agree! I love the sight of roots flattened against the pot/bark/mount - whatever and the sight of very green, healthy roots in a clear pot. That's the way Phals are supposed to grow

[Gladys47]

Orchid express. You are in my area. Houston/Galveston. You didn't say what you pot your Phals in.
I'm a Phal killer!!! I love Phals.
Gladys

[Alec]

Psst, don't tell anyone, but I grow a few of my phals in bonsai soil...they absolutely love it! It's super fast draining but will also hold on to moisture without bogging down. Also decomposes a lot slower than bark/peat orchid medium stuff you get at the store.

I tried growing the phals strapped to driftwood with sphagnum, but the near constant misting during the summer was quite a chore without an automated system. When I sensed that I was losing the battle I switched to bonsai soil and they perked right up and started pushing out new roots and leaves again. Proper and consistent moisture retention is the key - but this ultimately depends on the amount of flexibility you have in your watering habits.

A nice humidifier is also a good investment.

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