Popular orchids such as Phalaenopsis or Epidendrum do not thrive in substrate in their habitat. In the rainforests of the tropics, the flowers sit high up in the branches of mighty jungle giants. In order to cultivate epiphytic orchids in a natural way, they are tied to a branch as houseplants. These instructions reveal how to do it right.
How do you tie orchids on a branch?
To tie orchids onto a branch, you will need a seasoned branch, nylon stocking strips, darning twine, sphagnum and stainless wire. Attach the moistened sphagnum to the branch, position the orchid on it and carefully tie the roots with nylon stocking strips. Then hang the branch.
Material list and preparatory work at a glance
So that your orchid feels in good hands at lofty heights, it is important to use the following materials:
- A well-seasoned branch of a type of wood that does not rot quickly, such as teak, oak or cherry
- A worn-out, skin-colored nylon stocking
- Stainless wire to hang the branch in the room
- Brown darning thread
- Sphagnum
- Spray bottle with lime-free water
Before you pot up the orchid, dip the root ball in a bucket of soft water so that the aerial roots are nice and supple. Then pull off the culture pot and remove all of the substrate. Cut the nylon stocking into 2 to 3 cm wide strips.
Instructions for tying on a branch
Place the moistened sphagnum on the branch and tie it with the darning twine. Position the substrate-free orchid on the moss in such a way that there is room for all the roots. While a helping hand holds the plant in place, tie the roots tightly with the nylon strips. It is important to note that you do not tighten the binding material too tightly so as not to injure the sensitive roots.
Finally, wrap the branch ends with wire and hang the orchid. The branch and plant should still be within easy reach so that you don't have to climb onto a chair or ladder for every care procedure.
Tip
If an orchid is tied to a branch, it has no substrate available to supply it with moisture. High humidity is of vital importance in this form of cultivation. Ideally, the epiphytic orchid is located in a warm, humid greenhouse or in the winter garden next to a humidifier. Spa rooms that are saturated with water vapor can also be considered, such as the bathroom or indoor swimming pool.
