Media for a Phaius?

[Kmac]

I have a small Phaius that has been in semi-hydro, but it is not growing that well. So, I am thinking to remove it from that....but unsure what to put it in. Anyone grow these and have a suggestion?

Thanks!

[Tropic]

I have a number of Phaius growing successfully in straight sphagnum moss. Main thing is to have a damp medium with very good drainage. A slow release pellet fertilizer like Dynamite or Nutricote 13-13-13 added to the surface works fine for both the species and hybrids. Replanting every year also is a must to keep the plants in a fresh non-compacted medium.

[zainal abidin]

I agree with Tropic Phaius is terrestrial orchids they love good drainage medium, here in Malaysia I used coconut husks and fern roots so far they do well for me loo at the photo below.
Another way you can go to virgin forest than get the top soil (make sure is not contaminated) also they like it cause of rich in humus

[Kmac]

Hhhmmm. No forests near me, but I do have fresh humus-y compost, and sphagnum. So, both of those are possibilities.
Thanks!!!

[Tropic]

Kathi ... here is a photo of a Phaius in live sphagnum moss.

[Kmac]

That looks very happy!!! I have a bulbo that came in live spaghnum, and it seems to love it too. I may have to look into that next time.

I potted mine up yesterday in a nice humus-y compost, and we will see how it does. Poor thing had lost a lot of roots, but still has some...so I will hope for the best!!

[Halloamey]

Kathi, I like to plant mine in a mix meant for the seedlings, which is a mixture of fine charcoal (5 mm), perlite and coconut husk chips, it ensures good drainage yet a moist medium, that terrestrials like. And my Phaius are huge, they will put multiple growths and also flower with huge inflorescences.