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Orchid potting mix


Question
Can you use the new 'Rubber Landscape Mulch' to repotting orchids without any harm to them?

Answer
Patricia, this may be a mulch similar to the ground-up rubber tire particles available several years ago.  I have a small quantity but have not yet used it.  I know many commercial and amateur orchid growers and not a single one uses it.  I don't know if it is not in use as an orchid potting mix because of cost, concern about toxicity, or the old addage "if it isn't broke don't fix it" since there are many orchid potting mixes created specifically for growing orchids that are tried and true.  Many years ago I was acquainted with a grower who maintained that you can grow orchids in anything.  As proof, he grew and flowered an orchid in shards of glass from a shattered glass door.  

I would be concerned about growing orchids in mulches not intended for that purpose unless you are the adventurous sort.  If you decide to try it, remember that it provides no nutrition so you will need to feed with every watering.  If you decide to try it, I would be interested in your experience.    Thank you.

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