How to Grow Orchids on Tree Fern

Growing orchids on tree fern mounts is a fantastic way to mimic their natural habitat and create a stunning display. Tree fern provides excellent support, aeration, and drainage for orchids, making it an ideal medium for epiphytic species. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps and considerations for successfully growing orchids on tree fern, ensuring your plants thrive and flourish.

Why Choose Tree Fern?

Tree fern fiber, derived from the trunks of tree ferns, is a popular mounting material for orchids. Here are some reasons why it’s an excellent choice:

• Natural Habitat Simulation: Orchids naturally grow on tree trunks and branches. Tree fern closely mimics this environment, providing a familiar growing surface.
• Excellent Drainage and Aeration: Tree fern allows for superior air circulation and drainage, preventing root rot and promoting healthy growth.
• Durability: Tree fern is long-lasting and doesn’t decompose quickly, providing a stable growing medium for your orchids.

Selecting the Right Orchid Species

Not all orchids are suited for growing on tree fern. Here are some ideal candidates:

• Phalaenopsis (Moth Orchid): These orchids thrive on tree fern mounts due to their epiphytic nature and preference for airy, well-drained environments.
• Cattleya: Known for their stunning blooms, Cattleyas benefit from the excellent drainage and aeration provided by tree fern.
• Dendrobium: These hardy orchids adapt well to tree fern mounts and enjoy the stability and support it offers.
• Oncidium (Dancing Lady Orchid): Oncidiums appreciate the moisture retention and airflow provided by tree fern.
• Vanda: Vandas thrive in the open, airy environment tree fern provides, allowing their roots to breathe and grow healthily.

Preparing Tree Fern for Mounting

Before mounting your orchids, it’s essential to prepare the tree fern properly:

• Cutting: Cut the tree fern into appropriately sized pieces for your orchids. Ensure the pieces are thick enough to provide support but manageable for handling.
• Soaking: Soak the tree fern pieces in water for a few hours to overnight. This helps to soften the material and make it more pliable for mounting.
• Sterilizing: While optional, sterilizing the tree fern by soaking it in a mild bleach solution (1 part bleach to 9 parts water) for about 10 minutes can help eliminate any pests or pathogens.

Mounting Orchids on Tree Fern

• Gather Materials: You’ll need your prepared tree fern pieces, orchid plants, fishing line or plant ties, and sphagnum moss (optional).
• Positioning: Place the orchid on the tree fern mount, positioning it so the roots make good contact with the surface. Ensure the plant is stable and upright.
• Securing: Use fishing line or plant ties to secure the orchid to the tree fern. Be gentle to avoid damaging the roots or plant. Wrap the line around the mount and the base of the plant, ensuring it is snug but not too tight.
• Adding Moss: If desired, place a small amount of sphagnum moss around the roots. This helps retain moisture while the plant acclimates to its new mount.
• Watering: After mounting, water the orchid thoroughly to help it settle into its new home.

Caring for Orchids on Tree Fern

• Watering: Orchids on tree fern mounts typically need more frequent watering than those in pots, as the medium dries out quickly. Water your orchids when the tree fern feels dry to the touch. In hot or dry conditions, you may need to water daily.
• Humidity: Maintain a humidity level of 50-70%. Use a humidity tray, mist the plants regularly, or use a room humidifier to achieve the desired humidity.
• Fertilizing: Use a balanced orchid fertilizer at half strength every two weeks during the growing season. Orchids on mounts benefit from regular feeding, as nutrients can leach away more quickly than in pots.
• Light: Provide bright, indirect light. Most orchids prefer filtered sunlight or artificial grow lights. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
• Air Circulation: Ensure good air circulation around your mounted orchids to prevent fungal and bacterial issues. Use fans or ensure the growing area is well-ventilated.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Root Desiccation: If the roots are drying out too quickly, increase the frequency of watering and misting. Adding a layer of sphagnum moss can also help retain moisture.
• Mold or Fungal Growth: Ensure good air circulation and avoid overwatering. Remove any affected plant parts and treat with a fungicide if necessary.
• Weak Attachment: If the orchid is not securely attached to the mount, adjust the ties or add additional support. Ensure the plant is stable but not constricted.

Seasonal Care Adjustments

• Winter: Reduce watering frequency during the winter months when orchid growth slows. Maintain adequate humidity and light levels.
• Summer: Increase watering and humidity during the hot summer months. Ensure the orchids receive sufficient light without being exposed to direct sunlight.

Long-Term Maintenance

• Repotting: Unlike potted orchids, mounted orchids don’t need regular repotting. However, if the tree fern mount starts to decompose or the orchid outgrows its mount, consider remounting it on fresh tree fern.
• Pruning: Trim dead or damaged roots and leaves to maintain plant health. Regularly remove spent flower spikes to encourage new growth.

Case Study: Successful Mounting on Tree Fern

A hobbyist orchid grower decided to experiment with mounting her Phalaenopsis and Cattleya orchids on tree fern. She carefully prepared the tree fern, mounted her orchids securely, and adjusted her care routine to accommodate the new setup. Within a few months, she noticed that her orchids were thriving, with healthy root growth and vibrant blooms. The tree fern provided excellent support and aeration, mimicking the orchids’ natural habitat and enhancing their overall health.

Conclusion

Growing orchids on tree fern mounts is a rewarding way to cultivate these beautiful plants in a manner that closely mimics their natural environment. By selecting suitable orchid species, preparing the tree fern properly, and adjusting your care routine, you can create a thriving display of mounted orchids. With attention to detail and regular maintenance, your orchids will reward you with stunning blooms and healthy growth, adding a touch of exotic beauty to your home or garden.