What kind of soil should you use to plant an orchid?

Plant both types of orchid, terrestrial and epiphytic, in a free-draining potting medium that allows for air to reach the plant's root system, such as orchid bark, perlite, charcoal or sponge rock. Free-draining mediums are used to create and maintain the best air-to-moisture ratio for the plant.

Plant the orchid in a container with good drainage, and water it by flushing it with tepid water. Allow the plant to dry completely between waterings to discourage fungal growth. Flowering orchids need slightly more water than non-flowering plants. Maintain a comfortable temperature, and provide a temperature drop of 10 degrees Fahrenheit between night and day.