Today we cleaned up the ‘hapuu forest’ and I planted about 10 orchids. I recently learned a new trick to secure orchids on trees using pantyhose. As the orchid slowly establishes itself and latches on to the tree the panty hose disintegrates away.
Most orchids are epiphytic and dont require any soil. They enjoy latching on to wood bark and having good drainage. The aerial roots can absorb moisture from air too. Some orchids like to dry out completely before getting watered again, others like consistent moisture, each type is different. So the environment and growing media varies wildly.
After growing orchids casually for several years Im getting more and more into it… But there are way too many species and so much more to learn!
Originally posted on 2021-02-06, part of the daily planting journal behind Ha’a Chocolate’s food forest on Hawai’i Island.