---
title: "Hey, I have just put Sphagnum moss just on the top of my orchid…"
description: "Hey, I have just put Sphagnum moss just on the top of my orchid that's in bark. I thought it would look nicer than bark when/if it starts growing. I am…"
url: "https://getplanta.com/community/JmTUi1iSQr6-tX35luAMXQ/iL1DPuYQRqenJgQQpTVQmA"
community: "The Orchid Oasis"
author: "Mia"
published: "2024-05-01T13:31:33.487407Z"
language: "en"
image: "https://images.getplanta.com/v1/resize/GuXLZcrEybg67MJXfA-7TF4wsrQGPEKzkCtWeKnGELM/o3Pc6ViJSm-GF0iiTHBczw.webp?size=large"
---

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# Hey, I have just put Sphagnum moss just on the top of my orchid…

_Posted by Mia on 2024-05-01_

Hey, I have just put Sphagnum moss just on the top of my orchid that's in bark. I thought it would look nicer than bark when/if it starts growing. I am wondering if anyone else has done this before or if anyone knows if it will work? Thanks!

![Attachment 1 of 1](https://images.getplanta.com/v1/resize/GuXLZcrEybg67MJXfA-7TF4wsrQGPEKzkCtWeKnGELM/o3Pc6ViJSm-GF0iiTHBczw.webp?size=large)

## 5 comments

### Dee commented on 2024-05-01

I do this! I use it to help me gauge when it is time to rewater! 😀

#### Mia replied on 2024-05-01

Oh that's good. I just look at the side of the pot and if there is condensation I don't water and also look at the roots.

#### Dee replied on 2024-05-01

I use it to retain a little moisture since orchid bark doesn’t always retain water the best, so I occasionally feel the moss and look at how the roots and leaves are doing

### Jen commented on 2024-05-01

Moss around the tops of the pot where new tips of roots emerge is a great idea to promote growth in those tender little guys- the only problem with it, is that because it’s exposed to the sun your moss may turn green with algae. That can develop cyanobacteria that will hurt the roots and ultimately halt development of your orchid. If you start to notice it turning green, I’d remove those portions of moss and shield it from the light- usually with a layer of bark.

#### Mia replied on 2024-05-01

Hmmm, ok. I will see how it goes as the window it's in only gets a few hours of evening sun. Thank you for your help

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