Growing without flasks?

I was reading that an orchid growing in the wild seeds start by a fungus on the tree. That if you have a wild orchid that there is a chance that the fungus still exists on the roots then your seeds might start just putting them in the same pot. Well, Has anyone ever been successful with growing an orchid from seed with out using the flasking system? I have lots of wild orchids growing on my property. Can I just take seeds and place them in the same area as the Encyclia tampensis that are growing on the oaks. Here is a picture of the spot that I would like to try this at. If anyone can give me and tips on this subject I would greatly appreciate it. Thanks Brandan

I'd say give it a go ... what have you got to lose?
:)

What kind of orchid seed are your speaking of? Do you know the plants or parents? =0)

Give it a go! I've heard of people doing this on moss and or bark pieces but the moss and bark need to not dry out!

There is a seed grown Dendrochillum on a Cattleya. Weve watched it get bigger and bigger, hasnt bloomed yet. Anyways, you will probably only get a couple of plants to germinate if any. Do it though.

give it a go. Let us know if it works.

Brandan, this is an extremely interesting concept. I hope you try it with more than one type of seed, especially seeds from plants which suit that particular location. Give it a go and please keep us updated.

Best of luck.

go for it...I would use that mossy area next to Enc

I had some experiences growing a few orchid species naturally on the bark of driftwood in our ancestral home. This was a one-day Dendrobium Crumenatum. The seed pods had burst so I just ignored it. The weather was rainy and humid. I was surprised a few weeks later during a sunny day, I saw some green protocorms sprouting on different areas of the wood. I also saw some sprouting on the bark of the tree beside the driftwood where it was leaning against. They eventually grew into plantlets and I fertilized regularly and they grew into regular plants.