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sterlizing maple bark

Discussion in 'Orchid Culture' started by jai, Oct 20, 2015.

  1. Oct 20, 2015 #1
    jai

    jai Orchid addict

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    I decided to pull off a couple sheets of bark of a half dead maple in my back yard. I was wondering what should I do to sterlize them so I could use for my orchids. I heard you can boil, bake in oven, microwave them, wash with hydrogen peroxide, ect. But I don't know what would be best.
    Any advice please
     
  2. Oct 21, 2015 #2
    DPfarr

    DPfarr Well-Known Member

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    I wouldn't use any bark from a half dead tree, no matter which sterilization protocol.
     
  3. Oct 21, 2015 #3
    Ray

    Ray Orchid Iconoclast Supporting Member

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    Agreed; it will deteriorate rapidly.
     
  4. Oct 22, 2015 #4
    Mikehitch

    Mikehitch New Member

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  5. Oct 22, 2015 #5
    Mikehitch

    Mikehitch New Member

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    If the bark is in good shape why would you want to sterilise it? To the best of my knowledge no commercially or home prepared orchid media is sterilised and even if it was as soon as it hits the air it would be invaded by fungal spore and other nasties.

    If you are going to use the bark and it is not currently in a state of decay hit it with a fungicide and perhaps an insecticide for the bugs and then use the bark as you would like.
     
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  6. Oct 22, 2015 #6
    jai

    jai Orchid addict

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    It is in good shape I just wanted to make sure thiers no bugs/pest so I can use it. I want to know the best way to prepare it for use as a mount.
     
  7. Oct 23, 2015 #7
    John Klinger

    John Klinger Active Member Supporting Member

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    To kill bugs ect, put it in a micro wave, 2 min should kill all funny little creatures.
     
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  8. Oct 23, 2015 #8
    jai

    jai Orchid addict

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    John Klinger, Thanks :)