When do orchids fertilize in spring?
The aroma of orchids in early spring has not yet dissipated, and many flower friends have begun to worry about the nutritional supply of orchids. As a typical temperate plant, orchids have significant differences in nutrient needs during different growth stages in spring. Mastering scientific fertilization methods can not only promote the germination of new buds, but also accumulate energy for subsequent buds. This article will provide you with a detailed explanation of the golden rule for spring fertilization of orchids from three key periods. The spring orchid fertilization cycle is divided into early spring germination period (February-March). When the temperature stabilizes above 12℃, the orchid root system begins to be active. If the buds have not fully bloomed at this time, it is recommended to suspend fertilization. If fertilizer is needed under special circumstances, you can use 0.1% potassium dihydrogen phosphate solution for foliar spraying once every 10 days, paying attention to avoid petals. 5% bone meal can be mixed into the traditional plant material ratio as a slow-release fertilizer source. The mid-spring growth period (April) is the peak period of nitrogen demand. It is recommended to use special slow-release fertilizer for orchids (N-P-K=20-10-10), and add 5 grains per 10 cm of pot diameter. Organic fertilizer enthusiasts can use fermented bean cake water (diluted 1:50) to water it once every half a month. Combined with pine scale substrate, it can enhance breathability. Late spring differentiation period (May) summer flowering varieties enter the reproductive transformation period at this time. The high-phosphorus formula should be switched in time (N-P-K=10-30-20), and root topdressing should be combined with foliar spraying (0.2% superphosphate extract). Non-flowering varieties maintain balanced fertilizer (N-P-K=15-15-15), and note that Chunjian and Cymbidium should be treated differently. Guide to fertilizing orchids and avoiding pits 1. Stop fertilizer on rainy days to prevent rotten roots 2. Newly placed plants need to slow down for 1 month before applying fertilizer. Half the dosage for weak seedlings, and ban fertilizer for sick seedlings. 4. Stopping topdressing during high temperature periods (>28℃) can increase the growth rate of new orchid buds by 40% through precise fertilizer supply in stages, combined with substrate humidity and light control. Remember the principle of "applying thinly and diligently" to make your orchids burst into vitality in spring.