How to choose an orchid-mount and then grow healthy Phalaenopsis Orchids on it

4 min readMar 1, 2021

Ever considered growing orchids in a mounted space — just like might have grown in their tropical habitat? It’s a great idea, provided you have a little space to try this will-not-fail experiment. After all, most orchids are epiphytic plants that live on a host tree. This keeps them raised, and away from nibbling predators and accessible only to pollinating insects.

As a first step, pick an orchid variety that grows in the nooks of trees in their natural habitat. These have better chances for survival on a mount in your home. Phalaenopsis orchids are just what you are looking for.

The right mounts for your Phalaenopsis Orchids

Coco husk fibre plaques which hold sufficient moisture make ideal mounts

Tree-bark slabs are ideal mounts for Phalaenopsis that are kept outdoors. The wood resists decay in humid environments

Driftwood with tree-fern fern plaques offer unusual shapes that add character to the mount. Tree fern plaques are soft, shaggy, moisture retentive and durable.

Mounting process

Wrap the mount with thick twine, rope or floral wire with enough length to create a loop on which to hang it

Soak the mount in warm water for a few hours

Soak the orchid roots in water for 20 minutes to make it pliable

Gently remove all potting media from the plant’s roots. Snip off dead roots carefully, with a sterilised scissor

Pack moist moss around the orchid’s roots to reduce transplant shock while the orchid familiarises itself with its new home.

Attach the moss-wrapped root ball to the mount using floral wire, fishing line, or another non-biodegradable string. It’s important that the string remains intact while the roots secure themselves on the mount.

Mounted Phalaenopsis Orchid care

With a mounted Phal, you don’t have to worry about giving it too much moisture. It will never have soggy roots. At the same time, you need to be careful about providing a humid environment for your orchid. Water the plant really well at least three times a week, and increase the ambient humidity through evaporation.

In some time, the moss you applied to the roots will drop off. In its place, new orchid roots will start exploring their mount, developing the characteristic flattened shape that helps the orchid live out its epiphytic life