What is the best potting mix for Paphs?
The one that works best for you and your conditions! You can grow Paphs in any number of different types of potting mix; you can even grow some of them mounted if you have the right conditions, although this technique is not suggested for beginners. The basic needs are ample ability for holding air and water, ability to stabilize the plant, and not too high a salt retention capability. The most traditional mixes for the past several decades have been based on fir bark, with various additives such as perlite, aliflor, stone, sphagnum moss or rockwool. Mixes utilizing coconut husk chips and lightweight aggregates are becoming more popular, and are our preferred mix. For more information see “Use of Coconut Husk Chips as a Potting Mix Base Superior to Bark”. Pure New Zealand Sphagnum Moss, loosely packed, is excellent for initiating new roots on plants, but is a difficult medium to use for long term culture.
