Sphagnum in Indoor Horticulture.

Sphagnum or Moss. 
Due to its unique properties sphagnum moss has been widely used in the indoor horticulture. 
Sphagnum does not contain nutrients, and it is acidic (pH approximately 3.0). The ability of the moss to absorb and retain water (some species of sphagnum absorb moisture in 20 times its own weight) helps keeping the necessary soil moisture. Chopped sphagnum used as a component of soil substrate, and as a cover of the surface of the soil, thereby, further increases the humidity around the plant.  Also moss absorbs excess salts, so it can easily be replaced by a fresh one because of the salinity of the current one.
Soil comprising sphagnum has a high air- and moisture permeability. As a result it does not form stagnant water in a pot. Substrate stays friable and lightweight for a long time. It is perfect for young plants to form new root system. Also, Sphagnum  helps to make a  slightly acidic soil, which is  important for growing such plants  as Gesneriaceae (violets). As a component of the substrate  can be used living and dry sphagnum. However, according my personal observations, plants grow better in living moss.

Sphagnum has excellent bactericidal properties. Because of special antiseptic substance sphagnum prevents rotting of the root system and development of disease-causing microbes in the soil and on its surface.
To keep sphagnum alive, I keep it in water approximate temperature of 45 degrees C for 30 minutes, then, put in plastic bags and stored in a cool place. Three or four months moss remains alive. Also, moss can be frozen without any harm to it. 

A potting Mix for Orchids.
Mix: Pine bark, charcoal, a little sphagnum, also recommend finely chopped fern roots. 
Put a large rough bark down, on the top put a middle bark. The mix should approach to the base of roots closely, but do not cover it.

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