Hanging orchids can transform indoor and outdoor spaces, adding dynamic visual interest. This method offers practical advantages, optimizing growing conditions for many varieties and efficiently utilizing vertical space.
Why Hang Orchids
Hanging orchids offers several advantages for their health and display. Many orchid species are epiphytic, naturally growing on other plants, and hanging mimics this habitat. This method significantly improves air circulation around the roots, preventing root rot and promoting robust growth. Improved airflow also helps dry excess moisture, discouraging fungal and bacterial issues. Hanging allows for better light exposure, beneficial for epiphytic types thriving with filtered light, and provides a space-saving solution that enhances a room’s aesthetic appeal.
Popular Hanging Methods
Several popular methods allow for creative and effective display of hanging orchids. Each method offers unique characteristics for different orchid types and aesthetic preferences.
Mounted Orchids
Mounting orchids involves attaching them to a rigid surface like cork bark, driftwood, or plaques. To mount an orchid, roots are typically wrapped in sphagnum moss for moisture retention, then secured to the surface using floral wire, fishing line, or non-biodegradable twine. This method benefits orchids preferring excellent air circulation around their root systems, such as Dendrobium and Vanda varieties. Roots eventually attach to the mount.
Hanging Baskets
Hanging baskets offer a versatile option for many orchid genera. They come in materials like wire, plastic, wicker, or wood slats, with wire baskets often featuring coco husk liners. Orchid potting mixes fill the baskets. This method provides superior drainage and air circulation compared to traditional pots, suiting orchids that prefer well-draining conditions. Wooden slat baskets are popular for orchids like Vandas, which benefit from abundant airflow around their roots.
Macrame Hangers
Macrame hangers offer an artistic and adaptable way to display potted orchids. Crafted from cotton cord, these decorative hangers accommodate various pot sizes, providing aesthetic appeal and structural support. Macrame allows growers to use their preferred orchid pots while achieving a hanging display. They add a bohemian touch to indoor spaces and can be customized in length and design.
Kokedama (Moss Ball)
Kokedama, a traditional Japanese gardening technique, involves encasing a plant’s root ball in a soil sphere, then covering it with moss. This moss ball can be suspended for a unique display. For orchids, the root ball is prepared with a suitable potting mix, then wrapped tightly in sheet moss and secured with twine or fishing line. Kokedama allows for good air circulation around the roots and presents the orchid as a living sculpture.
Choosing the Best Spot
Selecting the optimal location for hanging orchids involves careful consideration of environmental factors. These factors are crucial for the orchid’s health and successful blooming.
Light
Orchids require bright, indirect light to thrive and bloom. Direct sunlight can scorch their sensitive leaves. East-facing windows are ideal, providing gentle morning light. South-facing windows may work in climates with less intense sunlight or when diffused with sheer curtains.
Air Circulation
Good air circulation is important for orchid health, preventing stagnant, damp conditions. Hanging orchids naturally benefit from increased airflow around their roots and leaves. Avoid placing orchids directly in strong, constant drafts from vents or open windows, which can dry them out too quickly. Gentle, wafting breezes are best.
Temperature and Humidity
Orchids prefer daytime temperatures between 70-85°F (21-29°C) and a slight drop at night. Humidity levels between 50-70% are recommended for optimal growth. Hanging orchids, especially mounted or in open baskets, may dry out faster than potted ones. Maintaining adequate humidity is important, which can be achieved by placing them near a humidifier or grouping them with other plants.
Adapting Orchid Care for Hanging
Adjusting standard orchid care routines is necessary for the continued health of hanging plants. These adaptations ensure optimal growth and prevent common issues.
Watering
Hanging orchids, especially mounted or in open-slat baskets, require more frequent watering than potted orchids due to increased air exposure. While general recommendations suggest watering once a week for indoor orchids and twice a week for outdoor ones, frequency depends on the environment and potting medium. Methods include thorough soaking of the entire mount or basket until saturated, or daily misting for mounted plants. Allow the medium to dry slightly between waterings to prevent root rot.
Fertilizing
Hanging orchids benefit from regular, dilute fertilization during active growing periods. Apply a balanced, liquid orchid fertilizer every one to two weeks, or with each watering. Foliar feeding, spraying a diluted solution directly onto leaves, can also supplement nutrient intake. Reduce or cease fertilization during the orchid’s dormant phase.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance of hanging orchids includes checking the stability of mounts and hangers. For orchids in baskets, occasional repotting may be needed as the potting medium degrades or the plant outgrows its container. Observe the orchid for signs of stress, like shriveling pseudobulbs or discolored leaves, to make timely adjustments to watering, light, or humidity.