How to Grow Orchids on Cork

Remove a potted orchid from its pot, leaving the roots intact. Weave moistened moss through the roots. A ball of moss about one-quarter the size of the orchid's old pot should suffice, according to author William Cullina. The moss makes the orchid easier to mount and provides extra moisture, which a previously potted orchid prefers.

Set the orchid flat on the cork and wrap fishing line around the roots and cork to attach them together. Make it snug enough to hold the orchid in place but not so tight that it cuts into the roots. Leave the green parts of the plant free.

Place the orchid in a south-facing window that receives plenty of indirect sunshine. Protect it from sunburn with a sheer curtain at midday.

Provide at least 40 percent humidity by turning on a humidifier or placing the orchid in a bathroom window that receives plenty of steam. While all orchids need lots of humidity, orchids planted on cork need an especially humid environment, according to David P. Bank's book, "Orchid Grower's Companion: Cultivation, Propagation, and Varieties."

Set the cork in a bowl of water and let it soak for several minutes, two to three times a week. Mounted orchids need more watering than other orchids, but the moss helps them retain moisture. Drain it before returning it to its display spot.

Add fertilizer to the bowl once a week when watering. A fertilizer with an equal ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, such as 10-10-10 or 12-12-12, is ideal for orchids, as long as you dilute it to one-half or one-quarter strength in the water.