| People mount on all sorts of things. Hardwood, logs, branches, clay pots, lava rock, cork, epiweb, driftwood, trees, etc.
What you need to look for are the following:
1) Softer woods decompose quicker. Since roots stick to the surface of the mount, it makes it prohibitive to transplanting. The longer the mount lasts the better. Of course inorganic materials won't have this problem. Pick dense woods or those naturally resistant to rot like cedar.
2) Orchids with thin roots like oncidiums do better with rough surfaced mounts. The nooks and crannies help the orchid get a grip. Those with thicker roots do better with smoother surfaces.
3) Know how the orchid grows. Certain orchids are climbers and do better with tall mounts.
Regardless of what you pick you want to make sure its prepped correctly. Cleaning and removing salts is critical.
Expect to water frequently unless you live in a high humidity area or you grow in a GH. They can dry out quite fast. |