Orchid Cultivation Soil Ingredients
Nutrient Matrix: Restoring the Rainforest Layering Effect
Decomposed Leaf Soil: Natural Nutrient Reservoir
It is best to choose semi-decomposed leaf soil from the top 3cm of broad-leaved forest, with a stable pH value between 5.5-6.5. Sieve the soil before use to remove undecomposed impurities, and use high-temperature steam sterilization to eliminate the risk of eggs.
Bark: Slow-Release Energy Station
Pine bark needs to be naturally decomposed for more than 6 months, crushed to 0.5-1.5cm particles. Increase the amount to 30% in winter and reduce it to 15% in summer to prevent mold. Microwaving on medium heat for 3 minutes can replace the traditional sun-drying method.
Pine Needles: Trace Element Source
Fresh pine needles need to be composted and softened for 3 months, mixed with 1:3 decomposed sheep manure to enhance fertilizer efficiency. It is recommended to lay it on the surface of the growing media to form a biomimetic moisture layer.
Ventilation System: Constructing Root Respiratory Network
Ceramsite: Physical Support Layer
Ceramsite with a diameter of 8-10mm should be laid at a thickness of 1/5 of the pot height, mixed with volcanic rock 1:2 to enhance gas permeability. It needs to be replaced every two years to avoid salinization.
Peanut Shells: Three-Dimensional Ventilation Layer
Fresh peanut shells with red skins need to be boiled for 20 minutes to remove fat, then dried and crushed to the size of corn kernels. Control the addition amount to 10% or less during the rainy season to effectively prevent root rot.
Drainage Structure: Preventing Waterlogging Barriers
Orchid Stones: Water Conducting Media
Plant stones with a diameter of 3-5mm mixed with perlite at a ratio of 3:1, laid at the bottom of the pot to form a water-conducting layer. Flipping it over when repotting each year can extend its lifespan.
Activated Carbon: Double Protection
Experimental data show that following the golden ratio of 40% nutrient layer + 35% ventilation layer + 25% drainage layer, the growth rate of new orchid roots can double. Regularly observing the root condition to adjust the formula, and flexibly increasing or decreasing the organic matter content in response to environmental temperature and humidity changes is the key to maintaining healthy orchid growth.