Orchids are a class of precious and elegant flowers that are loved for horticultural ornamentation. In order to guarantee the growth and health of orchids, it is crucial to choose the right soil for planting. Different types of orchids have slightly different soil requirements, and the following is an introduction to the most suitable soil types for orchid cultivation to help you better cultivate and care for these beautiful plants.
1.Orchids grow in a special environment.
Orchids usually grow on trees or rocks in nature, and the soil is relatively less nutritious. Therefore, the soil in the traditional sense is not suitable for orchid planting, and a special planting medium is required, and the commonly used planting media for orchids include the following:
Tree bark: such as pine bark, coconut shells, etc., they have good air permeability and drainage, which can simulate the situation of orchids in their natural growing environment.
Charcoal: Charcoal has better water absorption and drainage properties, and at the same time reduces the problem that the soil is prone to water accumulation.
Fern fibers: Fern fibers such as fern crucian carp, tree fern, etc., they have good water retention properties and can provide the water needed by orchids.
2.Soil rich in organic matter.
Although orchids do not depend on nutrients in the soil, the right amount of organic matter still plays a positive role in the growth of orchids. The addition of appropriate organic fertilizers can improve the water retention and fertility of the soil and increase the nutrient supply of the soil. Note: Organic fertilizers should use well-rotted compost or other organic matter, avoid using fresh fertilizers.
3.Good breathability and drainage.
Orchids have very high requirements for soil permeability and drainage, as their roots are very sensitive to aeration and water balance. Soil that is too moist will cause the root system to lack oxygen, which can easily lead to root rot; Soil that is too dry can lead to a lack of moisture, which hinders the normal growth of orchids. Therefore, the planting soil should have good air permeability and drainage
Adding porous materials, such as perlite, vermiculite, foam particles, etc., can increase the air permeability and drainage of the soil and avoid water accumulation in the soil.
Change the soil regularly: The roots of orchids are prone to accumulating residual salt, which can affect the growth of orchids. Therefore, it is very important to change the soil regularly to remove the accumulated salt.
4.value and orchid type.
Different types of orchids also have requirements for soil values. Generally speaking, orchids are more adapted to weakly acidic to neutral soils, with a general value of 55-6.5 is the best. However, there are some special types of orchids that have more specific requirements for soil values, so you also need to know the soil requirements of the orchid you are cultivating before planting an orchid.
5.A planting substrate made from a mix of materials.
According to the soil type and ratio principle mentioned above, different materials can be reasonably mixed to create the best soil environment suitable for the growth of different species of orchids. For example, here's a substrate formulation for growing orchids:
50% bark or wood fiber.
30% fern or coconut fiber.
20% perlite or vermiculite.
In order to ensure the quality and stability of orchid growth, it is important to check the soil moisture regularly, and replace and update the planting substrate as needed to ensure that the orchid root system receives sufficient oxygen and nutrient supply, which helps to promote its healthy growth and flowering.