Orchids are special in many ways, and one of the most surprising facts is that many species can live just fine without potting soil. In fact, for some orchids, potting soil is actually unsuitable. But what exactly is this about?
Origin: epiphytic survivors
Most orchids that you encounter in the living room, such as Phalaenopsis, Cattleya and Dendrobium, are originally epiphytic. That means that in nature they do not grow in the earth, but on trees, rocks or other surfaces. They use their roots to attach to bark or moss, and get water and nutrients from rain, humidity and organic matter that accumulates where they grow.

No soil, but a medium
When you buy an orchid, it is usually in a pot with an aerated substrate, such as bark or coconut chips. This is not potting soil in the traditional sense. It provides enough air around the roots and prevents them from rotting. So you can keep an orchid just fine without soil, as long as the medium it's in is airy, quick-draining and slightly moist.

Orchids on a piece of bark or wood
You can go one step further and keep your orchid completely without a pot. Some enthusiasts attach their plants to a piece of cork bark, tree disk or driftwood, just like in nature. Not only does this look decorative, it is also very natural for the plant. However, this way of keeping does require a different approach in terms of care:
- You have to spray or dip more often, because there is no substrate that retains moisture.
- The humidity can be quite a bit higher, especially in dry indoor air.
- The plant needs a little more shelter from direct sunlight and drafts.
Semi-hydro and hydroponics: without substrate, with control
There are also methods where you keep orchids in water or a water reservoir, as in semi-hydroponics. For example, you use leca (clay pellets) in a pot with a water reservoir underneath. The roots then grow partly in the moisture and partly in the air. This requires a stable climate and good monitoring, but can work surprisingly well - especially with people who like structure and regularity.

Conclusion: Yes, but choose what suits you
So an orchid does not need potting soil - or even a pot at all - to grow well. You can choose an airy medium like bark, a natural attachment on wood or a modern hydroponic method. As long as you provide adequate air circulation, moisture and light, an orchid can do just fine without soil.
Want to experiment with orchids on wood or in semi-hydro yourself? Then be sure to choose a strong species that can handle some changes, such as a Phalaenopsis or a small Cattleya. And keep in mind that you will have to adjust the care a bit.