Crafting a captivating Orchid Arrangement: Detailed Instructions for Creating Mesmerizing Displays
**Mounting Orchids: A Guide to Creating a Wild, Natural Display**
For those seeking to create a unique and captivating orchid display, mounting orchids might just be the answer. This technique not only adds an elegant touch to any space but also mimics the natural growing conditions of many orchid species.
**Suitable Orchid Types for Mounting**
Phalaenopsis, with its common and well-suited nature for mounting, especially smaller varieties, is a popular choice. Another striking option is Vanda coerulea, the blue orchid, which grows naturally on tree branches and can be mounted on decorative logs or other structures to mimic its epiphytic habitat.
Renanthera monachica, miniature and small-sized orchids from regions such as Malaysia, the Philippines, Ecuador, and various parts of Central and South America are also suitable for mounting, particularly those adapted to warm, humid, or tropical environments.
**Suitable Materials for Mounting Structures**
Wooden boards, tree branches, or cork bark are popular choices for mounting structures. They provide a natural look, retain some moisture, and offer a rough surface for roots to attach. Cork bark slabs, with their porous nature and resistance to rot, are preferred, while tree fern fiber slabs offer good moisture retention and aeration.
Decorative logs or driftwood can be used for larger orchids or for a more aesthetic display. Plastic mesh or baskets are occasionally used but are less common for epiphytic species, being more suitable for semi-terrestrial varieties.
**Mounting Techniques**
Orchids are attached to the exterior surface of the mount, allowing roots to grab onto the rough texture. In some mounts, there is an opening or cavity where the plant can be placed, helping to keep the roots moist and protected.
**Caring for Mounted Orchids**
Mounted orchids dry out faster than potted plants, especially when placed outdoors or in heated homes. When watering a mounted orchid, the entire mount should be soaked in the sink for several minutes, and it's best to water in the morning. It is not recommended to use treated wood or walnut for mounting orchids.
Mounting an orchid produces a wild, natural display, especially for epiphytic orchids that grow in tree crotches and rock crevasses. By selecting the right orchid and mounting material, you can create a stunning display that not only adds elegance to your space but also provides an environment that closely mimics the natural growing conditions of these fascinating plants.
Home-and-garden enthusiasts may find mounting orchids a suitable way to incorporate a touch of nature into their lifestyle, particularly in the home-and-garden category. For instance, Vanda coerulea, the blue orchid, is an eye-catching option that mimics its natural growing habitat when mounted on decorative logs or other structures.
