How to Grow Orchids on Trees: A Complete Guide to Epiphytic Beauty

Discover the natural beauty of orchids growing on trees, just as they do in tropical forests around the world. Approximately 70% of orchid species are epiphytes, meaning they naturally grow attached to trees rather than in soil. This guide will show you how to recreate this stunning natural display in your own garden, with step-by-step instructions for selecting, mounting, and caring for orchids on trees. Whether you’re an experienced orchid enthusiast or a curious beginner, growing orchids on trees offers a rewarding way to showcase these exotic blooms in their natural habitat.

Understanding Epiphytic Orchids and Their Natural Habitat

Epiphytic orchids have evolved to thrive above ground, using trees merely for physical support rather than extracting nutrients from them. Unlike parasitic plants, orchids don’t harm their host trees. Instead, they’ve developed specialized adaptations to collect water and nutrients from the air, rain, and organic debris that collects around their roots.

In their natural habitat, these orchids grow in the canopies of tropical and subtropical forests. They’ve evolved to escape the intense competition for light and space on the forest floor by moving upward. This evolutionary strategy allows them to access better light conditions while avoiding ground-dwelling predators and pathogens.

The specialized root system of epiphytic orchids serves multiple functions. The thick, fleshy roots not only anchor the plant to the tree but also absorb moisture and nutrients from the air. Many species have a spongy outer layer called velamen that quickly absorbs water when available and provides a silvery protective coating when dry.

Understanding these natural growing conditions is key to successfully growing orchids on trees in your own garden. By mimicking their natural habitat, you’ll create an environment where your orchids can thrive and display their exotic beauty as nature intended.

Best Orchid Species for Tree Mounting

Not all orchids are suitable for growing on trees. The best candidates are those that naturally grow as epiphytes in the wild. Here are some excellent species to consider for your tree-mounting project:

Shade-Loving Orchid Species

If your garden has limited direct sunlight, consider these shade-loving orchids:

• Phalaenopsis (Moth Orchids) – Perfect for branches near the trunk where they’ll receive filtered light through the canopy.
• Paphiopedilum (Lady’s Slipper Orchids) – While technically terrestrial, some varieties can adapt to mounting in very shaded, humid conditions.
• Bulbophyllum – These diverse orchids generally prefer shaded conditions and high humidity.

Sun-Loving Orchid Species

For sunnier locations in your garden, these orchids will thrive:

• Vanda – These vigorous growers love bright light and can often handle direct morning sun.
• Dendrobium – Many varieties thrive in bright light conditions, especially the harder-caned types.
• Brassavola – Known for their fragrant white flowers, these orchids enjoy bright light conditions.

Ideal Tree Species for Hosting Orchids

Not all trees make suitable hosts for orchids. The ideal trees provide the right balance of light filtration, bark texture, and moisture retention. Here’s what to look for when selecting a tree for your orchids:

Bark Texture Comparison

The best trees for mounting orchids have rough-textured bark that provides crevices for roots to attach and helps retain some moisture. Tropical hardwoods like oak, mango, and avocado are excellent choices. Palm trees also work well, especially for sun-loving orchid species.

Climate Zone Considerations

In cooler climates (zones 5-8), consider growing orchids on trees seasonally and bringing them indoors or providing protection during winter months. In zones 9-11, you can grow most tropical orchid species on trees year-round with minimal protection.

Step-by-Step Guide to Attaching Orchids to Trees

Successfully mounting orchids on trees requires careful preparation and technique. Follow these steps to ensure your orchids establish themselves properly and thrive in their new home:

Step 1: Choose the Right Location on Your Tree

The location on the tree is crucial for your orchid’s success. Consider these factors when selecting the perfect spot:

• Light requirements – Match the orchid species to the appropriate light conditions on the tree
• Branch orientation – Horizontal branches provide better support and water retention
• Branch thickness – Choose branches thick enough to support the orchid but not so thick that they won’t receive adequate light
• Direction – North or east-facing positions often provide ideal light conditions while avoiding harsh afternoon sun

For shade-loving orchids like Phalaenopsis, choose spots closer to the trunk where the canopy provides protection. For sun-loving varieties like Vanda, positions toward the outer branches or on palm trees may be more suitable.

Step 2: Prepare Your Orchid

Proper preparation of your orchid is essential for successful mounting:

1. Carefully remove the orchid from its pot
2. Gently clean all potting medium (soil, moss, bark) from the roots using lukewarm water
3. Trim away any dead or rotting roots with sterilized scissors
4. Allow the roots to dry slightly before mounting
5. Identify the pseudobulb (the thickened portion at the base of the stem) which will need direct contact with the tree bark

Step 3: Gather Your Mounting Materials

You’ll need the following supplies to securely attach your orchid:

• Natural fiber string – Jute, cotton string, or strips of pantyhose work well
• Sphagnum moss (optional) – Can help retain moisture during the establishment period
• Gardening gloves – To protect your hands
• Scissors – For cutting string and trimming if necessary

Step 4: Mount the Orchid

Now it’s time to attach your orchid to the tree:

1. Position the orchid against the tree bark with the pseudobulb making direct contact
2. Spread the roots against the bark surface, maximizing contact
3. Ensure the growth point faces upward and leaves aren’t pressed against the bark
4. Begin wrapping the string around both the orchid and branch, starting at the base
5. Wrap firmly but not so tight as to damage the plant or restrict growth
6. Secure with several passes, ensuring the orchid is firmly attached
7. Tie off the string with a secure knot

If using sphagnum moss, you can place small amounts around (but not covering) the roots to help retain moisture during the establishment period. Don’t cover the pseudobulb or crown of the plant with moss, as this can cause rot.

Step 5: Initial Care After Mounting

The first few weeks after mounting are critical for establishment:

• Water daily for the first two weeks, ensuring the roots and surrounding bark become thoroughly moistened
• Gradually reduce watering over the next few weeks (every other day in week 3, every third day in week 4)
• Mist the roots during dry periods to maintain humidity
• Avoid fertilizing until the orchid shows signs of new growth
• Monitor closely for signs of stress or dehydration

After about a month, your orchid should begin establishing itself on the tree. You’ll know it’s successful when you see new root growth attaching to the bark and eventually new leaf or pseudobulb growth.

Seasonal Care for Tree-Mounted Orchids

Caring for orchids on trees requires adjusting your maintenance routine throughout the year. Here’s a seasonal guide to keep your tree-mounted orchids thriving:

Spring Care (Growing Season)

Spring is typically the active growing season for most orchids:

• Watering: Increase frequency as temperatures rise, typically 2-3 times per week depending on rainfall
• Fertilizing: Begin regular fertilizing with a specialized orchid fertilizer diluted to half strength
• Pest monitoring: Check regularly for pests as they become more active in spring
• Growth observation: Look for new roots and growth points developing

Summer Care (Peak Growing Season)

Summer brings heat and often the need for increased attention:

• Watering: Increase to 3-4 times weekly during hot periods, preferably in early morning
• Heat protection: Consider temporary shade cloth for orchids in positions that receive intense afternoon sun
• Humidity: Mist orchid roots and surrounding bark during particularly dry periods
• Fertilizing: Continue regular feeding every 2-3 weeks

Fall Care (Slowing Growth)

As temperatures begin to cool, adjust your care routine:

• Watering: Gradually reduce frequency as temperatures drop
• Fertilizing: Reduce or stop fertilizing as growth slows
• Blooming: Many orchids set flower spikes in fall – avoid disturbing developing spikes
• Winter preparation: Begin planning winter protection for orchids in cooler climate zones

Winter Care (Dormancy Period)

Winter care varies significantly depending on your climate zone:

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Growing Orchids on Trees

Detailed Explanation of Common Mistakes

1. Improper Mounting Materials

Using metal wire or plastic zip ties can damage both the orchid and the tree. Metal wire can heat up in the sun and burn the plant, while plastic ties don’t degrade and can eventually girdle the growing branch. Always use natural, biodegradable materials like cotton string, jute, or strips of pantyhose.

2. Incorrect Light Exposure

One of the most common mistakes is placing orchids in inappropriate light conditions. Research your specific orchid species and match it to the appropriate location on your tree. Shade-loving orchids placed in direct sun will quickly burn, while sun-loving varieties placed in deep shade will fail to thrive and bloom.

3. Insufficient Initial Watering

Newly mounted orchids need consistent moisture until they establish. Many beginners underestimate how much water is needed during the first few weeks. Daily watering is essential during the establishment period to prevent dehydration and encourage new root growth.

4. Leaving Potting Medium on Roots

Failing to thoroughly clean potting medium from roots before mounting can lead to rot and prevent proper attachment to the tree. Take time to gently remove all moss, bark, or soil from the roots before mounting.

5. Mounting in the Wrong Season

Timing matters when mounting orchids. The best time is typically in spring as the growing season begins. Mounting during extreme weather (mid-summer heat or winter cold) puts additional stress on the plant and reduces success rates.

Embracing the Natural Beauty of Orchids on Trees

Growing orchids on trees connects us to the natural way these fascinating plants grow in the wild. By following the guidelines in this guide, you can create a stunning display of epiphytic beauty in your own garden. Remember that patience is key—it takes time for orchids to establish themselves on trees, but the results are well worth the wait.

Start with easier species like Dendrobium or Brassavola before attempting more challenging varieties. Experiment with different mounting positions and tree types to discover what works best in your specific environment. With proper care and attention to seasonal needs, your tree-mounted orchids will reward you with years of exotic blooms and a truly unique garden feature that showcases these remarkable plants as nature intended.