Alternative substrates to the sphagnum moss in the acclimatization of arundina graminifolia “alba”(Orchidaceae)

Abstract

The Arundina graminifolia, is popularly known as bamboo orchid, by having their stems quite extensive. It is widely used in the business landscape, with a very rustic plant. Sphagnum moss is the most widely used substrate in the acclimatization of orchids, but environmental issues have led to an increase in the search for alternative substrates. The objective of this study was to evaluate substrates that can replace all or part of the use of sphagnum moss on the acclimatization of A. graminifolia. The substrates used were: sphagnum moss, rice hulls, rice hulls + coir 1:1 (v / v) sphagnum + carbonized rice husk, 1:1 (v / v). Seedlings were kept in a greenhouse and after seven months were evaluated for survival rate (%), shoot height (cm), average root length (cm), number of leaves and roots, dry leaves, pseudobulbs and roots (g) and leaf area (mm2). Also evaluated were pH, conductivity (uS.cm-1), density (g.cm-3) and water holding capacity (mL.L-1) were evaluated. The results showed high levels of survival (80%) and the number of leaves (4.3) grown plants in rice hulls + coconut fiber 1:1 (v / v). The same with respect to pH (5.9) within the optimal range of nutrient availability. It is concluded that the mixture of rice hulls + coconut fiber 1:1 (v / v), is a suitable substrate for plant growth A. graminifolia during the acclimatization phase, which may replace the sphagnum, and the use of carbonized rice husk alone unfeasible during this period.