TheNaturePlanet

As we all know, Phalaenopsis orchids are particularly beautiful, with their flowers resembling butterflies gracefully dancing, and their colors are diverse. Many people consider them their "white moonlight" and place them in the most prominent spots in their homes to enhance the decor.

However, when it comes to actually caring for Phalaenopsis orchids, many people face challenges, such as choosing the right potting medium. Some gardeners recommend sphagnum moss, while others suggest using pine bark. From the moment of purchase, the florist has already prepared pine bark for the orchid. Does this need to be changed? What is the purpose of adding pine bark to the orchid pot?

Before answering, I must commend this gardener for such a detailed question. Taking care of orchids involves not only watering and fertilizing but also choosing the right growing medium, which is just as important. So, is pine bark suitable? Should it be changed? My answer is that there’s no need to change it, as the florist’s choice likely has a good reason, considering regional differences. Pine bark, also known as pine mulch, generally contains nitrogen and potassium fertilizers. Especially when it’s from older trees, the decomposed bark can provide nutrients for the plant. Additionally, it has antibacterial and insect-repellent properties, making it less likely for plants to suffer from pests and diseases.

So, what does adding pine bark to the bottom of the orchid pot do? First of all, it’s a common organic material that provides the necessary air circulation and water retention for orchids. Adding it in moderation can be beneficial for the plant's roots.

However, not all gardeners should use it. For example, in the southern regions, where the surrounding environment is relatively humid, it’s better to use more sphagnum moss and less pine bark. Excess moisture can clog the moss’s ability to absorb water, leading to poor ventilation, and the pine bark may develop small white bugs. In contrast, for drier regions, such as the northern areas, it’s advisable to increase the amount of pine bark and reduce the use of moss to help retain humidity in the soil.

Additionally, when purchasing pine bark, ensure that you buy fresh bark without any fungal growth. Bark with fungal threads cannot be thoroughly cleaned, and using it later may result in yellow residue sticking to the pot, which can be unpleasant.