Orchid substrate

The right substrate for orchids is key to their health and successful growth. It is not just soil in which the plant grows, but a specially selected mixture that helps maintain optimal moisture, air permeability, and root structure for orchids. In this article, we will go into detail about how to choose, prepare, and use substrate for orchids, as well as which materials are best suited for different orchid species.

What is orchid substrate?

Orchid substrate is a mixture of various materials that serves as the base for growing orchids in a pot. It should provide good drainage, moisture retention, and oxygen flow to the plant’s roots. This is especially important for orchids such as phalaenopsis, cattleya, dendrobium, and others, which naturally grow on trees rather than in soil.

Orchid substrate can be purchased at specialized stores or prepared yourself using various components.

Composition of orchid substrate

The composition of orchid substrate depends on the species of orchid as well as the growing conditions. Here are the main components used in orchid substrates:

1. Tree bark — one of the most popular materials for substrate. It provides excellent air permeability and stable moisture levels. Bark is commonly used for phalaenopsis and other orchids that require a well-drained, airy mixture.
2. Coconut substrate for orchids — an eco-friendly material that is becoming increasingly popular. Coconut chips or fibers hold moisture well while allowing air to reach the roots. It is ideal for orchids that need increased humidity.
3. Sphagnum moss — used to retain moisture and create a soft, loose environment around the roots. Moss is perfect for young orchids or to improve the moisture-retaining properties of the substrate.
4. Perlite and vermiculite — both materials provide additional looseness to the substrate, helping to retain moisture and preventing it from compacting.
5. Charcoal — sometimes added to orchid substrate to prevent root rot and improve aeration.
6. Foamed glass — also used to improve drainage, particularly when mixed with other organic materials.

How to choose the best orchid substrate?

Which orchid substrate is the best depends on the type of orchid and the conditions in which it will be growing. Here are a few tips:

• Phalaenopsis — this orchid species is best with a substrate made of tree bark, with added sphagnum moss or coconut fibers. It is important that the substrate is light and well-draining.
• Cattleya — this orchid prefers larger pieces of bark and slightly drier conditions. Coconut substrate can be used in combination with other components to improve the structure.
• Vandas — these orchids are often grown without substrate on their roots, but if you prefer to use a mixture, choose a substrate with excellent drainage and minimal organic material.
• Dendrobium — this orchid requires a substrate that doesn’t retain too much moisture, as dendrobiums prefer relatively dry conditions.

How to use orchid substrate?

1. Choose the right substrate — consider the specific needs of your orchid. It’s often better to choose a special substrate that already contains the necessary components for your type of orchid.
2. Repotting orchids into new substrate — when your orchid outgrows its pot or the substrate starts to break down, repot the plant. This is typically done every 1-2 years.
3. Component ratios — when making your own orchid substrate, it's important to maintain the correct proportions of components. For example, for phalaenopsis, you can use 70% bark and 30% moss or coconut.
4. Moisturizing — after planting your orchid in a new substrate, make sure to water it well to establish contact between the roots and the substrate.

Making your own orchid substrate

If you want to save money or create a custom mix for your orchid, you can make your own substrate. Here's an example of how to do this:

1. Coconut substrate for orchids: 40% coconut fiber, 40% tree bark, 20% perlite or vermiculite.
2. For phalaenopsis orchids — 60% finely chopped bark, 30% sphagnum moss, 10% perlite.
3. For dendrobiums: 50% bark, 30% charcoal, and 20% perlite.

Benefits of premium orchid substrate

Premium orchid substrates, such as bona forte substrate, offer excellent drainage, long-lasting moisture retention, and reduce the need for frequent repotting. These substrates are specially designed to provide optimal conditions for orchid roots, helping them adapt quickly to new conditions and grow healthily.

Where to buy orchid substrate?

You can buy orchid substrate at specialized plant stores and online retailers such as wildberries, ozon, and others. It’s important to pay attention to the composition of the substrate and choose trusted brands that offer high-quality materials.

Conclusion

Choosing and using the right substrate for orchids is a crucial part of orchid care. Coconut substrates, bark, sphagnum moss, and other components help create the perfect conditions for orchid growth and flowering. Don’t forget about regular repotting, proper watering, and maintaining the right humidity, and your orchids will thrive and bloom beautifully for years.