Sphagnum Moss recycle?

[seetmei]

After repotting, can I recycle the sphagnum moss?

[BrianC]

I used used moss to plant tomato.

[gavstang]

Seet Mei, if you are asking if you can recycle the moss for use with other orchids, I would advise you against it..after a duration of time, the moss would have picked up all kinds of contaminants and other detritus not to mention the very real possiblity that if the original orchid was infected with something it could spread to another plant which you are now recycling the moss for. Remove the old spaghum moss and either throw it away or you can use it as part of your compost if you do your own compost but in my humble opinion never recycle old media..

[seetmei]

Many thanks for the advice, Brian and Gavin.

[catttan]

Seet Mei, if you are asking if you can recycle the moss for use with other orchids, I would advise you against it..after a duration of time, the moss would have picked up all kinds of contaminants and other detritus not to mention the very real possiblity that if the original orchid was infected with something it could spread to another plant which you are now recycling the moss for. Remove the old spaghum moss and either throw it away or you can use it as part of your compost if you do your own compost but in my humble opinion never recycle old media..

Well said, Gavin.

[Germinatorman]

I agree not to re-use. Also, I suggest changing sphagnum annually. Salt buildup from fertilizer can become significant.

[Brutal_Dreamer]

I too agree - I only use old media from my orchids in my flower and vegetable beds in the yard. The fertilizer that has been absorbed in the old bark along with the charcoal, etc... makes for some happy spring and summer plants.

Cheers,
BD