GrowPharm Orchid Media - Medium Fir Bark

GrowPharm's Medium Fir Bark is recommended for a wide variety of orchids, such as Dendrobium, Cattleya, and mature or thick rooted orchids. The product has been packaged dry for long storage life. You must soak media in water for 2 to 24 hours prior to use. Drain the excess water prior to planting your orchid. 

Benefits of GrowPharm Medium Fir Bark

• Great Drainage – water runs through easily, so roots do not sit in soggy soil.

• Good Air Circulation – roots get more oxygen, which keeps them healthy.

• Perfect for Thick-Rooted Orchids – works well for Dendrobium, Cattleya, and other mature orchids.

• Long Storage Life – packaged dry, so you can keep it until you need it.

• Custom Mixes – can be combined with sphagnum moss, perlite, or charcoal for different orchid needs.
  
  

Why Orchids Need Fir Bark

In nature, many orchids grow on trees, not in soil. Their roots are used to being exposed to air and quick-draining rainwater. Fir bark copies this natural environment. It holds just enough moisture for the plant while keeping roots well-aerated. This helps reduce root rot, improves nutrient uptake, and supports regular flowering cycles.

How to Use

1. Place the bark in a clean container and fill with water.

2. Soak for at least 2 hours (up to 24 hours for best results).

3. Drain the water. The bark should feel moist but not wet.

4. Repot your orchid, gently filling bark around the roots. Do not pack too tightly.

GrowPharm Medium Fir Bark is a simple, reliable choice for orchid growers of all levels. Whether you are caring for one orchid on your windowsill or maintaining a collection, this bark gives your plants the healthy root environment they need to thrive.

Orchid Bark for Other Plants

Although orchid bark is specially made for orchids, many other plants benefit from it too. The chunky pieces of bark create extra airflow and drainage in the soil, which helps prevent roots from sitting in water and reduces the risk of root rot.

• Aroids – Plants like Monsteras, Philodendrons, Anthuriums, and Alocasias love bark mixed into their soil. It mimics the loose, airy forest floor they grow in naturally and helps them develop stronger root systems.

• Bromeliads and Tillandsias – Like orchids, many epiphytic plants grow attached to trees in nature. Bark provides a natural-looking base that keeps them supported while still allowing air around the roots.

• Succulents and Cacti – Mixed lightly into a cactus or succulent soil blend, orchid bark improves drainage and prevents water from collecting around roots.

• Terrariums and Vivariums – Bark is often used as part of bioactive substrates for microfauna cultures, because it helps regulate moisture and encourages beneficial microorganisms.

By combining orchid bark with other ingredients like perlite, charcoal, sphagnum moss, or potting soil, you can create custom mixes for many types of plants. This makes orchid bark a versatile choice for both houseplant enthusiasts and terrarium keepers.

Bark Origin

Fir bark is a by-product of the British Columbia logging industry and is not the primary purpose for cutting the trees. We purchase this bark and heat-treat it to kill any insects or fungus before packaging it in Alberta and selling it. You can feel good about this purchase because you are supporting job creation and utilizing the parts of the trees that are not useful for construction.