Tiny orchids found their way to us from South and Central America. As epiphytes, the orchids, which are just a few centimeters tall, are ideal for cultivation on a bonsai. Read here which species are possible and how to properly tie up the plants.
Which orchids are suitable for bonsai and how do you attach them?
Masdevallia, Pleurothallis and Trichosalpinx orbicularis species are suitable for cultivating orchids on a bonsai. Place damp moss on a sturdy branch, place the orchid on top and tie it in place with nylon strips. Pay attention to high humidity and daily spraying with lime-free water.
These species thrive on a bonsai
The following orchid types meet all the requirements to form a harmonious partnership with a bonsai. They thrive epiphytically, like to root in moss and maintain their low height:
- Masdevallia species
- Pleurothallis species
- Trichosalpinx orbicularis
The orchid species mentioned may serve as your inspiration because they have numerous subspecies with other candidates for natural cultivation on a bonsai. For example, botanists assign more than 12 subgenera to the genus Masdevallia with countless species and varieties.
Preparation work and material list
Please first immerse the pot with the root network in lukewarm, lime-free water until no more air bubbles appear. Then place these materials within easy reach:
- Sphagnum or other moss
- An old nylon stocking or special binding material from a specialist store
- Scissors
- A spray bottle with soft water
Please cut the nylon stocking into small strips. Unpot the orchid to shake off the substrate or rinse with a gentle shower.
How to properly mount the orchid on a bonsai
Choose a stable branch on your bonsai as a location for the orchid, on which the flower stalks can grow unhindered. Place the damp moss there and place the orchid on it. With a good deal of sensitivity, tie the plant with the nylon strips on the side of the leaf bases. Place the binding material crosswise at least once to give the orchid more stability. Finally, spray the leaves and aerial roots with lime-free water.
Perfect for underplanting
If the delicate attachment of orchids to the branches of a bonsai is too delicate for you, use the tiny floral plants as decorative underplanting. Since the species recommended here also root diligently in loose substrate, this uncomplicated alternative is no less decorative.
Tip
When tied to a bonsai, high humidity is essential so that the small orchids do not dry out. Ideally, you should choose a bright, humid room as a location, such as the bathroom. In other living spaces, daily spraying with lime-free water is the most important measure in the care program.
