how do you store bark?

[neophyte]

Sort of a silly question, but how do you store bark? I only really used sphagnum before and bought some fine bark recently. The bark in the bag is slightly damp, which is nice for potting, but won't it mold or be host to a bunch of bacteria if it stays in the bag for a while?

[Ray]

It is better to store it dry, in my opinion.

[Dr. Dave 4u]

I'd spread it out and let it totally dry, then store it...

[Roberta]

I have had small bark (seedling bark) that was wet when it got it, and it turned into a mold factory. So if wet, dry it out. I have never had that problem with Orchiata, only with the "generic" seedling bark.

[rbarata]

Bark should be stored dry. If not, it will decompose in the bag.
Regarding potting, I prefer to do it with dry bark because it will get into the voids in the medium with the help of gentle taps to the pot (which will be more difficult when wet).

[Orchid Whisperer]

I agree with dry storage. Open the bag spread it out if possible and let it dry a couple days or longer. If spreading it to dry is not an option, just store with the bag wide open in a place where it won't be disturbed.

I always find it amazing how much water bark can hold, even after being left to dry for as long as a month.

When "dry enough" store in a closed bag, I recommend the zipper seal types.

[Keysguy]

Another vote for dry.
I am in a VERY humid environment and I go through at least 2 huge bags of bark every year and hardly ever have any left over. When I do though, I store it over in a sealed plastic bin. Otherwise it would just end up as a massive science experiment.

The reason that doesn't happen in pots is because it is exposed to light and the air. It does actually happen but it just takes much longer.

[DirtyCoconuts]

I will make one slightly contrasting take.

I rarely use bark. It is only to add to my normal mix when I want some thing to stay a bit wetter longer. I now only use orchiata and the Power size.

I like the bark not bone dry. If it is it stays that way too long and doesn’t do the job I ( and possibly uniquely I) want it to

So, I get food grade five gallon buckets for $3 at firehouse subs and store the bark in there with maybe a half cup or a cup of water. It lives outside but in the shade but sealed and the bark is always good.

I guess the lack of air and light makes it less hospitable but it is still MY experience