Orchiata Bark Production Process
New Zealand Pinus radiata is a hard and stable bark compared to other pine species; however, it needs to be processed from its raw state. Our unique natural process creates a high-quality, stable, long-lasting, toxin-free, consistent growing substrate available in different sizes for your specific growing needs.
Our process allows Orchiata to hold water and nutrients on the outside layer of each chip, as well as creating a slightly rough surface for roots to anchor to. Pathogens do not survive this process, however beneficial micro-organisms remain.
- Manufactured from bark from Pinus radiata trees. The trees are cultivated in man-made, renewable forests.
- Raw bark is crushed and fines (0-3mm) are removed by a screening process.
- The bark is naturally dried and the optimum moisture content is 40%. Temperatures reach up to 80°C during the process.
- Processing/drying takes place undercover and takes about 8-10 weeks.
- Final processing of the bark takes place in a large building with a concrete floor.
- Finished bark is stored on concrete floors, with concrete walls, under a roof.
- Containers are loaded on a concrete pad. Containers are inspected prior to loading.
