Mounted Orchid Growing — How to Grow Orchids on Wood, Cork & Tree Fern

Growing orchids mounted on bark or wood replicates their natural epiphytic lifestyle. Learn how to mount orchids, best mounting materials, watering techniques, and ideal species for mounting. This guide covers everything you need to know about this topic, including common causes, step-by-step solutions, and answers to frequently asked questions.

Here are the key things to understand: Mounted orchids grow attached to pieces of cork bark, driftwood, or tree fern fiber without any pot. This mimics how orchids naturally grow on tree branches in tropical forests as epiphytes. Mounted orchids need daily watering or high humidity (above 60%) since there is no potting medium to retain moisture. Best orchids for mounting include Phalaenopsis, Dendrobium, Oncidium, Bulbophyllum, and miniature species. Mounted orchids make dramatic wall displays and can produce larger root systems than potted specimens. Understanding these fundamentals will help you diagnose and resolve this issue more effectively.

The most common reasons this occurs include: Exposed roots get maximum air circulation which prevents root rot — the leading killer of potted orchids. Without restrictive pots, orchid roots grow freely in all directions as they would on a tree. Cork bark and tree fern provide textured surfaces that roots can grip and attach to permanently. Mounted orchids often produce more vigorous root growth and better flowering than potted specimens. Identifying the root cause is the first step toward finding the right solution.

To resolve this, follow these recommended steps: Choose a mounting surface — cork bark is the most durable and rot-resistant option for long-term mounts. Place a small pad of sphagnum moss behind the orchid roots to hold initial moisture during establishment. Secure the orchid to the mount with fishing line, plant ties, or pantyhose — not wire which can cut roots. Hang the mount in a bright humid location — bathrooms with windows are often ideal. Water by soaking the mount under a faucet or dunking in water for 1-2 minutes daily or every other day. If these steps do not resolve the issue, consider consulting additional resources or a qualified professional.

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