Bark that is dry will keep pretty much forever. As for nutrients, the medium is not the source so it doesn't matter.

If a piece of root has a firm hold on a piece of bark and the choice is a clean but damaged root, I say let the root keep it. That being said, if there are still a lot of pieces, you may need to try again. Almost all of these pieces will come off without root damage.

You might try soaking the roots for a couple of hours in tepid water to see whether or not the bark can break loose. It should make the roots more flexible and less brittle. Easier to repot.

Try and disturb the plant as little as possible. Orchids do not need repotting often. If you are worried about the status of your bark - and it can harbor many bacterial/ fungal conditions - put the quantity you need in a plastic/glass container and microwave it for 3 minutes. That will get rid of most nasties.

Hi
Are you in Florida?? I almost never use bark due to the constant breakdown of the material . MY favs. for most epiphytes are either mounted, Tree fern or crushed lava rock
Contained in a pot of course Growing outdoors or indoors??
gary

gary,

I agree re: YOUR favorite potting media. Great for south Florida.

--Stitz--
(in Maryland)

Nope, I'm in California. I'll try soaking the roots. That may work somewhat, though it may also make the roots more vulnerable to breaking... but it's worth a try. Thanks for the responses everyone. I figured the bark would be okay, and it's been stored nicely.

chrysbiz