What to use for an Epidendrum

[jbozzz]

Would it be ok if I use Orchid moss for an epidendrum radicans or would I need to use something else? Right now I have it sitting in a 6" wood basket with nothing in it, the roots are just sitting above water to get the humidty.

[kmarch]

Have you been growing your plant in this manner for any length of time (more than 6-8 months)? Is it growing for you, putting out new roots and growth? If the answer to these questions is yes, I'd apply the "If-it-ain't-broke-don't-fix-it." rule and let it be.

If it is declining or if you insist it must be potted in a more conventional manner, I'd pot it in a small-medium cattleya bark mixture in a pot only just big enough to get the roots in. Be careful not to overwater, especially since you may be potting roots that have grown exposed to the air.

Happy Growing!

[Cynthia, Prescott, AZ]

Reed-stemmed Epis are the weed of the orchid world. They will grow in almost anything. I would recommend a Cymbidium mix, or small bark. I grow them on the wet side. Watering them every day does not seem to hurt them. The only thing you should note about them is that if you give them high light to very high light, they will bloom on much shorter canes than if grown in heavy shade. If it takes twice the leaf area to produce flowers, they will grow twice as tall. Radicans, I believe, is the one with roots all along the canes. Other than that, it is hard to tell the difference in the reed-stems.