Phalaenopsis - on a tree?

[0rch1dman]

I am quite sure many people have either asked or tried what I am about to ask you all. Since Phals are epiphytes on trees, rock, etc would it be in its best interest to mount it on a tree, cork, or some other mounting device? And if so, would you just let the inflorescence do what it wants to do as well? Thanks for your help.

[Brutal_Dreamer]

I am quite sure many people have either asked or tried what I am about to ask you all. Since Phals are epiphytes on trees, rock, etc would it be in its best interest to mount it on a tree, cork, or some other mounting device? And if so, would you just let the inflorescence do what it wants to do as well? Thanks for your help.

It all depends on your taste and growing conditions, really. Here in Arkansas, I would not grow a phal on a mount because it would dry out way to fast in our summer heat. They do well for us potted in smaller bark mix. I have seen some mounted phals at shows that are just stunning, though. Those usually have the inflorescence hanging down as they would in nature. I really like the way they look, but I just do better with orchids in pots. My catts and phrags and paphs are the easiest for me. - all in pots.

Cheers,
BD

[Cjcorner]

Um...actually I have a phal mounted on a stick. I tied it down and dunk it along with my vandas. Because of the more natural position it doesn't matter that I dunk the whole plant....it seems to like it. But this particular Phal has been kind of funny about pots anyways. No matter how dry I let it get the roots kept rotting off. So, on the advice of a local nursery I stuck it on a nice rough stick with a couple nubs at the bottom for grip. It's doing famously and growing new roots. I stuck clumps of sphagnum between the green wrap tie stuff I used. I have to water it alot, but like I said, this one was weird anyways. Most people stick with pots as it is much easier like BD said. Besides, compared to BD, I am a rank amatuer and in time may take it off the stick, this is a new experiment for me.
Connie

[sadie]

In Ohio you are going to have to bring it in for the winter--phals don't really like snow. But inside, if you were willing and able to water it frequently, then it could probably work.

[0rch1dman]

Snow is coming again tonight so I better bring in my Dendrobium, as well! I am going to mount one and see how it goes. Thanks for all of your help.

[Gin]

I have quite a few mounted on slabs roots up leaves down to keep water from sitting in the crown, the roots are against the mount with some Spag. (over them ) I use strips of panty hose over the Spag. and roots until it attaches . Gin

[Molly Taco]

If you are willing to spritz and water you can mount your Phals I have several growing on trees, slabs and basket squares. I like to mount them so the crown in hanging down so they don't collect water.
Cin