How to Handle the Soil for newly bought Orchids
Orchids, as elegant ornamental plants, have special requirements for the cultivation substrates. The soil bought directly may cause root infections. Scientific handling can not only eliminate the risks of pathogens but also create an ideal growing environment for orchids. This article systematically analyzes the optimized use of newly purchased orchid soil, from substrate treatment to formula adjustment.
Ⅰ. Pre-treatment Standards for New Orchid Substrate
1.1 Differences between Packaged and Bulk Soil
Professional packaged orchid cultivation soil is treated with high-temperature sterilization and can be used directly after opening. However, bulk substrates are recommended to be disinfected again, as the market bulk soil is often stored in the open air, which is prone to breeding eggs and mold.
1.2 Double Scheme for Substrate Disinfection
Sunlight disinfection requires choosing consecutive sunny days, spreading the substrate in a 2-3 cm thick layer, and exposing it to strong sunlight for 6-8 hours at noon. The high-temperature stir-frying method requires preheating an iron pot to over 150°C, stir-frying no more than 1/3 of the pot each time, and maintaining stirring for 15 minutes.
Ⅱ. Professional Grade Orchid Substrate Formula
2.1 Special Formula for Terrestrial Orchids
Suitable for terrestrial varieties such as春兰 (Spring Orchid) and 蕙兰 (Huì Orchid): Decomposed leaf soil 40% + Red Jade soil 30% + Volcanic rock 15% + Pine bark 15%. This formula balances water retention and breathability, with a stable pH value between 5.5-6.5.
2.2 Customized Solution for Epiphytic Orchids
Recommended formula for epiphytic varieties such as蝴蝶兰 (Butterfly Orchid) and 石斛兰 (Dendrobium): Sphagnum moss 50% + Coconut shell 30% + Lightweight stone 20%. The substrate needs to be replaced every two years, and adding 5% bamboo charcoal granules can enhance antibacterial properties.
Ⅲ. Advanced Techniques for Substrate Treatment
After disinfection, the substrate needs to be left to sit for 24 hours to restore the balance of microorganisms. Before potting, spray it with water to reach a slightly damp state. It is recommended to add slow-release fertilizer granules (3-5 granules per liter of soil), and the mixing ratio of new and old substrates is suggested to be 1:4 for a safer transition period.
Properly handling the newly purchased orchid cultivation soil is the first step in healthy cultivation. Through scientific disinfection and reasonable proportioning, it can not only kill harmful pathogens but also create a suitable microenvironment for root development. Regularly observing the substrate condition and updating the substrate every 1-2 years can keep the orchids growing vigorously.