Orchids grow in different parts of the world. They are one of the most beautiful flowers on the planet, which is why they have become so popular among gardeners.
If you want to grow them at home, you need to study the requirements for maintenance and care. And one of the features of these plants is that they do not need a substrate.
This property is often used by orchid collectors, growing them in pots without filler, or even without pots at all. To repeat this amazing method, you first need to take a short excursion into the wild.
A little about natural growing conditions
Orchids come from wild tropical regions. One of the most popular species Phalaenopsis migrated to our windowsills from South America. This species was discovered in the 19th century. Since then, it has become very popular among gardeners around the world.
In tropical forests, this plant attaches itself to snags and ledges, and its roots hang freely in the air, absorbing water and nutrients from the environment.
Thanks to tropical rains and high air humidity, this is possible. Therefore, the roots do not tolerate dense soil. In home gardening, bark, sphagnum moss, and coconut substrate are used to fill the pot. But you can do without them.
It is enough to simply imitate natural growing conditions.
How to Grow an Orchid Without Substrate
Growing orchids without a substrate is an interesting experience for plant lovers who can devote a lot of time to their wards.
Here are some steps to help you do this fun experiment at home.
1. Find a suitable container.
Choose a transparent container that has drainage holes. This will allow the orchid roots to receive the necessary amount of air and water.
2. Prepare the stones.
Place rocks in the container to create a drainage layer. You can use different types of rocks, such as pebbles. The rocks should fill the bottom of the container. They will act as a weight so that the pot does not tip over.
3. Place the orchid on a layer of stones.
Make sure the roots are free to grow.
The second option for growing is on bark. You need to find a suitable piece of bark, drill two holes in it so that you can pass a wire through them and secure the orchid. Make a hole at the top, in which a loop is made. On this loop, a piece of bark is hung on a window or in a lighted place.
Care
When growing in this way, it is necessary to spray the roots and leaves of the orchid with water at least once a day, alternating clean water and a fertilizer solution. You can spray several times a day. In rooms with dry air, this should be done more often.
To help the orchid survive without a substrate, its roots must receive moisture regularly. For this, you can use a container with water, which will be located next to the container or bark. Evaporating, the water will imitate the high humidity of the tropical forest.
Growing orchids without a substrate is practiced by collectors, but these people know everything about representatives of different species and varieties.
It is important to remember that each orchid is unique and may require an individual approach to care. Do not immediately transfer all flowers to such cultivation. Do it gradually, starting with the most unpretentious species.
