Is moss in your orchid pot, good or bad?

[rosie]

Hi, this is a question I am asking the experts. We have had a lot of rain over here in Oz. in the last 6 months. Because my potting mixes contain a lot of coconut husk, moss is forming on the surface. Is this detrimental to the mix? Also some weeds pop up from time to time. These can be removed easily, but my concern is the moss. Any help?

[abiom]

So far,moss doenst do any damage to my orchid esp the one grow by itself. I used to see many orchid grow with moss in jungle. but this is a no expert tip though

[kiwiorchids]

Hi Annette, i never have any trouble with moss, infact it grows on most epi/lithophytic orchids' roots anyhow. It serves as a mulch in winter, and a water retainer in summer. Just remember to water less than you normally would for the winter period.

[catttan]

Like Abiom's, moss doesn't seem to do any harm to my orchids. In the wild we often see orchids thriving on branches covered with moss and fern. The Paph callosum here grows in living sphagnum next to running streams on our hills.

[Brutal_Dreamer]

I think some moss on the orchid pot adds character to the display too.

Cheers,
BD

[panam]

Rosie, can we see it?

[rosie]

Rosie, can we see it?

As we are having a dry spell now, the luxuriant moss doesn't seem to be flourishing as it did last month. But it is looking healthy, with new roots.

[panam]

I agree with Bruce - the moss adds to the plant. It might help keep the roots moist, too.

[rosie]

Thanks Jordan, it's always good to hear from you. How is the shaky Isles going?

[kiwiorchids]

oh not too bad, im actually most likely going down there to NZ top agricultural and horticultural university actually FINGER CROSSED!
they had a 5.2 a few days back but nothing serious, and someone decided to torch a building that had almost finished repairs.

Now i cant wait till saturday! anyone with worldy possesions they dont want if they are going to rapture are welcome to call me! be it money, cars, homes etc..... i will gladly pick up! My phone number is.......