From moss to bark mix

[Peter T]

I have a couple of Oncidium(now Psychopsis) papilios growing extremely well in moss but soon they will have to be potted on. I have no moss only a good quality bark mix which I use for the rest of my collection. Is there likely to be a problem in making the switch, any tips would be much appreciated. Peter T.

[Orchidementia]

Keep in mind I've only been not-killing orchids for about a year and half:

I don't like moss. I also have quite a few Onc Alliances (no Psychopsis, though). If I get a plant in moss, I almost immediately repot in bark mix. I recently repotted a Vuyl from moss to bark mix and it perked up noticeably.

The only exceptions to my no-moss are my little Japanese orchids; the grower recommended moss and I don't have enough experience with them to experiment.

[patticake]

to what Orchidementia said!

[Orchidementia]

Originally Posted by patticake

to what Orchidementia said!

)))))faint((((((

[Andrew]

Sphagnum is an excellent medium for orchids. Bark is also just as good. It all comes down to knowing how/when to water the two properly. If all of your other orchids are in bark, I'd recommend repotting your Psychopsis into bark. It will simplify your watering regime.

[Hummer344]

I find that moss is very hard to work with & it rots roots very quickly if left to wet. I repot all my orchids into a bark mix as soon as possible, adjusting the mix to the watering needs of the species, ie: finer mix for those that require more water to a medium mix for those that require less water. This way I can, generally, keep the watering needs of plants to my routine, not the plants.

[hera]

My Psychopsis is in bark and a clay pot. I left the medium more open in the middle to dry out faster. As far as moss....fugedaboudit.