r/Epiphytes • u/Fluffy-Biscotti5763 • 3d ago
Are dry oak branches suitable for mounting epiphytes?
Hello everyone!
I recently got some dry oak branches that were cut from an ancient dead oak tree that had become a safety hazard in a city park. My brother who gave them to me works as a park arborist, so I know the wood hasn't been treated with any chemicals. The branches have also been sitting in my garage for quite a while, so I'm pretty confident any insects or other critters have already moved out.
I've arranged them in a terracotta pot in my room and was wondering if they'd be suitable for mounting some plants. I have a few orchids and a beautiful Platycerium superbum that was given to me as a gift, and I thought they might look great on the branches.
Would oak be a good wood for mounting epiphytes? If so, what's the best way to do it? Should I mount the plants onto bark or a moss backing first and then attach that to the oak branches, or mount them directly onto the wood?
Also, how does watering work with this kind of setup? Do you just soak the moss, mist regularly, or take the plants off to water them?
I'd really appreciate any advice, tips, or links to good instructional videos. Thanks!