I'm not sure that I've ever seen fir bark anywhere. Would that be in the mulch section of most garden centers? In my area it is usually just cypress mulch.
Also, do you think I could substitute Texas grit for the lava rock? It is about the same size as the lava in the photo. I've only seen lava rock finely crushed or in large pieces around here.
You could substitute crushed toilet seats and chopped up pallets if you wanted. I took the time and made the effort to find exactly what I was told to try, I am glad I did.
I get the fir bark at a local bonsai shop in large bags, it may take some shopping and effort but it can be found. If all else fails, fir bark is the usual ingredient in any orchid mix, which can be found, at a higher price, in most box stores.
Lava rock is great, it's porous and shaped roughly so it holds not only water, but allows for air as well. Again, it may take some effort to find but it is well worth it. The brand I use is from the Colorado lava rock company in Colorado, you can find them on-line.
Will