> ... we don't have too much fir bark to use for potting (not 'old' enough) > **************************************
... was mentioned by one of our Australian list members. I was surprised at that statement, just because we have so much of it around here (U.S.). Ours isn't the excellent grade I've been told used to be available in the past, but much is decent quality. What about using cococut husk chips (chunky or large pieces), along with some medium to chunky perlite (or just the cc husk chips)? Another thing that drains pretty well is volcanic media, something along the lines of the stuff that is often used in the bottom of gas-grills (or barbies). The coconut husk chips last quite a long time, and if the larger size is used, there is significant pore space between the chunks even though the cut ends do release a decent amount of water to the roots. Are coco husk chips or volcanic rock available in that neck of the woods? I have also read and been told that peat does have a tendency to collect organic wastes and become somewhat sour, often necessitating the need to change it more frequently, or to use less fertilizer when using that sort of mix amendment/more frequent flushing with plain water. Also for the Australian readers: There used to be a nursery there that sold Caladenia corms and such. Is this firm still in business and could someone send me their contact info? I had an old envelope that I had received from them, but it has become misplaced in the clutter and I don't remember their name either. thanks and regards, charles -- Charles Ufford Calen the Border Collie CGC - now in Heaven Oriskany, NY USA IPA, Central NY and Southern Tier Orchid Societies [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://www.paphiopedilum.net Http://www.geocities.com/charlesufford _______________________________________________ the OrchidGuide Digest (OGD) [email protected] http://orchidguide.com/mailman/listinfo/orchids_orchidguide.com
