As we all know, Phalaenopsis orchids have an elegant appearance, and when they bloom, they look like fluttering butterflies — a sight that leaves a lasting impression. This unique orchid is quite different from ordinary flowers, especially in terms of its growing medium: it needs a substrate that is both well-aerated and highly water-retentive. Using regular garden soil is likely to suffocate the roots and kill the plant.
So how should beginners choose a potting medium for Phalaenopsis orchids? In most physical stores, the medium used for potting is typically sphagnum moss.
Sphagnum moss is a type of natural moss that grows in tropical and subtropical wetlands or marshes at high altitudes. It feels soft to the touch and has exceptional water-absorbing capacity — it can hold several times its own weight in water — which means it retains moisture for a long time, making it a popular choice for growing Phalaenopsis orchids. However, sphagnum moss has one drawback: it contains very little natural nutrition, so you need to regularly supplement the orchids with fertilizer. It is also relatively expensive, which slightly increases growing costs.
There are generally three types of sphagnum moss available on the market:
Domestic (locally cultivated) sphagnum moss
This is not the same species as imported moss. It is more affordable — around a dozen RMB for a large bag — and feels loose to the touch. Many domestic growers use it in their greenhouses. However, it contains more fine debris and impurities, and the quality can sometimes be inconsistent.
Chilean “Caterpillar” sphagnum moss
This imported variety is nicknamed “caterpillar moss” due to its shape and comes in “five-star” and “seven-star” grades, which function similarly but differ in appearance. Its biggest advantage is that it is clean and sterile. When used for Phalaenopsis, it provides excellent aeration and moisture retention, allowing roots to spread out freely and grow more vigorously. Its main drawback is price — about twice as expensive as domestic moss — but it is highly recommended for home growers because of its quality.
New Zealand sphagnum moss
This type is characterized by longer fibers and a softer texture compared to both domestic and Chilean moss. It is the most expensive of the three, roughly four to five times the price of domestic moss (3A and 5A grades can cost over 200 RMB for 40 liters).
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