"Peanuts" in potting mix

[Carl Chapman]

Hi all -
I have been repotting many of my orchids. Some should have been done loooong ago. I have found pots from 3 different suppliers that had some of the styrofoam "peanuts" in the bottom. I assume this is to keep from having to use too much of the other mix. Is it OK? Could it do any harm?

Any suggestions will be appreciated. Thanks...

Carl (southern WV)

[Alice-NJ]

Orchid roots love packing peanuts. They make the mix light and airy, which roots love. Just make sure they aren't the kind that disolve in water. Test them first. Sometimes they're too big, in which case break them into smaller pieces. Not only are they good in the mix itself, they are good as a layer in the bottom of the pot for drainage. Often when I repot I find roots going right through them. Some people grow solely in the peanuts without any other media.

[Carl Chapman]

Thanks, Alice !! Sorry I didn't get back to you right away, but things have been a bit hectic. We were hoping to go to the beach next week, but this storm across the mid-south nixed that. Tought decision as we were looking forward to some warmth :-)

Take care...

Carl (southern WV

[jean2]

Orchid roots will grow right through the peanuts that were in the pot. They seem to be happy that way. Drainage is essential. If you don't want to fill up the pot with expensive orchid potting media, you can add broken clay pots or even styrofoam packing peanuts to the bottom of the new pot. Repotting shouldn't stress your plants, but set them up for a successful growing season and even better blooms.

[Alice-NJ]

You were going to go to the beach? You were looking for warmth? We're experiencing 16 degree mornings and anticipating several inches of snow
tomorrow! No beach towels for us. Sleds, maybe. Happy growing.