What Kind of Stones to Use for Growing Orchids
This article introduces the types of stones suitable for growing orchids and recommendations for stones that are ideal for orchid cultivation. Let's dive into the details presented by the editor.
Orchid roots require breathing and are fleshy. Potting mix needs to be ventilated and breathable, preferably with some water retention capacity but not waterlogging. Stones can be used to grow orchids, with good choices including perlite, volcanic rock, weathered rock, and植金石 (植金石, a type of stone). Secondary options are cobblestone, pond stone, red jade stone, oatmeal stone, and floating stone. Let's discuss these in detail.
I. Perlite
Perlite has good ventilation and water permeability, with a stable structure, uniform particles, lightweight, and clean. It can be used solely as a planting medium. However, since perlite does not provide nutrients, fertilization is necessary during routine maintenance. It's best to combine it with other substrates, such as mixing it with vermiculite and fine river sand in a 1:1:1 ratio, or mixing it with leaf mold soil in a 1:1 ratio.
II. Volcanic Rock
Volcanic rock is a porous and lightweight inorganic particle. It can be soaked in a nutrient solution containing nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium for 3 to 5 days before use, then dried before planting. This way, the nutrient solution can be slowly released after each watering.
III. Weathered Rock
Weathered rock is a type of stone flake that falls off from shale after weathering. It has a lot of micropores, providing excellent breathability. Using weathered rock is beneficial for root growth.
Use stones with a diameter of 0.5 to 2 centimeters and wash them first. Perlite can be used alone, placing stones from coarse to fine from the bottom to the top of the pot. It can also be combined with other substrates, such as mixed with ceramsite and willow bark in a 1:1:2 ratio, with weathered rock placed only at the bottom of the pot.
IV.植金石 (植金石)
植金石 has good drainage and breathability, and is very lightweight. As a porous material, it has some water retention and fertilizer retention properties. It should be soaked in water for 2 days before use and then dried. During routine care, a nutrient solution can be watered to supply nutrients to the plant, maintaining a slightly moist state at all times. Avoid dry soil, as植金石 will absorb moisture, causing the plant to lack water.
V. Precautions
Choose stones without sharp edges and avoid using stones with high density and weight. Although cobblestone has a smooth surface, is relatively clean, and does not easily breed bacteria, it is heavy and can hinder the growth of new buds, causing the plant to grow crooked and affecting overall aesthetics. Pond stone should not be used as it can burn the roots. If used, it can be placed at the bottom or pressed on the surface of the pot.
Compared to using soil or stones alone, a better choice is to combine organic substrates such as soil, inorganic materials like stones, and plant-based substrates. Stones should account for 20% to 40% of the mixture.
The above information on the types of stones to use for growing orchids and recommended stones for orchid cultivation is intended to provide you with some helpful knowledge. We hope this article is beneficial to you!