Can you get orchid bark? Many nurseries sell orchid bark or you could drop into an orchid society meeting and buy a large bag at low prices. You don't need to be a member.

I am sure you have orchid societies in your area and if you Google it, you can find out when they are having a meeting.

Orchid bark works well for 5.1.1. if you can get the small size. I use an easier route and add potting soil to orchid bark and am happy with the results for my container plants. I use small bark and regular potting soil.

Jane

Hello, Ezhilmalini - I think Jane means fir bark, which there should be an abundance of in your neighborhood. Also, fir bark DOESN'T work as well as pine bark for the 5:1:1 mix because the prescreened particles would have a tendency to allow the peat fraction to end up on the bottom of the pot as the sludge you're trying to avoid. Shasta Forest Products in Yreka, CA near Oregon's southern border is a huge producer of fir bark, so it should be widely available near you.

The gritty mix might be easier for you than the 5:1:1 mix, if pine bark is unavailable. If you have questions about that, just ask.

Al

Jane and Tapla

Thank you so much for your information.