Orchid Hanging Ideas and How to Display Them

Hanging an orchid saves valuable shelf space and replicates the plant’s natural growing conditions. Many orchids are epiphytes, meaning they grow on other plants like tree branches instead of in soil. Suspending them in the air respects this growth habit and promotes better air circulation around the roots, creating a vertical accent in any room.

Popular Hanging Methods

Hanging Baskets or Pots

Displaying an orchid in a hanging basket is a popular method. Vanda orchids are often sold in open-slatted plastic or wooden baskets that allow their root systems to dangle. For other orchid types, a standard pot can be placed inside a decorative macrame hanger, offering a bohemian aesthetic while keeping the plant secure. Wire baskets lined with coconut fiber or sphagnum moss are another option that provides good drainage. These basket methods are versatile and accommodate a wide range of orchid species.

Mounted on Surfaces

Mounting an orchid directly onto a surface like cork bark, driftwood, or a tree fern plaque mimics its appearance in nature. This method provides excellent aeration for the roots and reduces the risk of root rot. The plant must be tied securely to the mount with fishing line or floral wire until its roots have firmly attached themselves. While this method requires more initial effort and ongoing maintenance, the result highlights the orchid’s epiphytic nature.

Kokedama (Moss Balls)

Kokedama is a Japanese technique where an orchid’s roots are enclosed in a ball of moss and substrate, then bound with string. This “moss ball” can be hung to create a floating, sculptural display. The moss retains moisture, providing a humid microenvironment for the roots while allowing for air exchange. Creating a kokedama involves making a special soil mix, packing it around the bare roots, and then wrapping the sphere with sheet moss secured by twine. Watering is done by soaking the entire ball in water until it is saturated.

Step-by-Step Hanging Guide

First, prepare the plant. Gently remove the orchid from its nursery pot and inspect the root system, using sterilized scissors to snip off any that are brown, mushy, or dead. Healthy orchid roots are firm and green or silvery-white.

For basket hanging, place a layer of appropriate orchid potting mix in the bottom of the basket. Position the orchid in the center and fill around the roots with more mix until the plant is stable. For mounting, place a pad of moistened sphagnum moss on the cork or wood. Splay the orchid’s roots over the moss and secure the plant to the mount with fishing line, making sure it is snug but not cutting into the roots.

Select the hardware for hanging. Heavy-duty ceiling hooks screwed into a joist are the most secure option for supporting the weight of a watered plant. For lighter displays, a sturdy wall bracket can be used. Choose a location that provides the orchid with appropriate light. Ensure the location is away from drafts from vents or windows.

Caring for a Hanging Orchid

The primary change in care for a hanging orchid is the watering routine. Due to increased airflow, hanging orchids dry out much faster than potted ones, especially when mounted. The most effective method is to take the entire basket or mount to a sink. Thoroughly soak the roots and media with lukewarm water, or submerge the entire setup in a bucket of water for several minutes until saturated.

Location is another important factor. Hanging allows you to position the orchid to receive the bright, indirect light most species prefer. An east-facing window is often ideal, providing gentle morning sun. Avoid direct southern or western sun, which can scorch the leaves; use a sheer curtain to diffuse harsh light.

While air circulation is beneficial, it can lower humidity. Orchids thrive in humid conditions, so you may need to compensate. Grouping hanging plants together can create a humid microclimate, or you can hang them in naturally humid rooms like a bathroom or kitchen.

Best Orchid Types for Hanging

Some orchid species are better suited for hanging due to their growth habits. Vanda orchids are a prime example, with long, dangling roots and upright growth that are ideal for slatted baskets. They are accustomed to high air circulation and bright light, conditions easily met with a hanging display.

Species with a trailing nature, like many Cattleya and Brassavola, are also good candidates. Their pseudobulbs and flower spikes will cascade over the side of a basket or mount, creating an elegant display. The common Phalaenopsis (moth orchid) can be hung by mounting it sideways. This orientation mimics its natural habit and prevents water from settling in its crown, which can cause rot. Miniature orchids, such as Oncidium or Neofinetia, do well in kokedama or on small mounts.