The chips have high water-holding capacity and release water slowly. They can be used alone as potting medium for orchids (including Dendrobium and Oncidium), as mulch, or mixed with other media such as sphagnum moss and perlite. They create pockets within the potting mix, promoting drainage and aeration vital to the health of orchids and tropical plants. However they are used, it will be easier to rehydrate the chips if they are not allowed to dry out completely.