How to Care for Bark Orchids

In nature many orchids grow on trees, which is why orchid growers use bark as a medium to grow orchids. Orchids planted in fir bark are sometimes called bark orchids and can be subtropical or tropical orchids. You easily grow orchids if you understand the type of orchid care they need to survive.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Use small fir bark pieces to prevent stress on the orchid's roots. Larger pieces of fir bark prevent the roots from working around them and are too heavy for the roots.

2. Place fir bark pieces on top of a piece of styrofoam and fill the pot to the base of the lowest leaves on the orchid. You may need to use less bark for shallow pots.

3. Mix organic compounds like peat moss, perlite or charcoal in with the fir bark pieces. You want the materials to drain quickly but retain the moisture from watering.

4. Put the oldest part of the plant toward the rim of the pot. This allows the orchid to grow for 2 to 3 years without the need for repotting. When you repot the plant, make sure the orchid finished blooming for the season and cut off any dead roots.

5. Place the orchid in a sunny location but not in direct sunlight, which burns the leaves. A cooler location prevents dehydration and requires less water.

6. Water the orchid once every 5 to 12 days and before fertilizing. Use a fertilizer designed for orchid care on a monthly basis to promote growth.

7. Keep the pot off the ground if you put the orchid outside during the day or raise it in a greenhouse. Slugs and insects damage the plant and can kill it if left untreated.