What Type of Fertilizer is Good for Orchids
Do you know this? For knowledge about orchid fertilization, please see the detailed introduction below.
What Type of Fertilizer is Good for Orchids
Orchids can be fertilized with a moderate amount of inorganic fertilizer, which needs to be diluted with water. After dilution, spray the fertilizer solution once every ten days or so. Orchid-specific slow-release fertilizer can also be used, but the amount should not be excessive. Phosphorus and potassium fertilizers like monopotassium phosphate and Huaduo No. 2 can be used during flowering. Once the flowers fade, stop using phosphorus and potassium fertilizers and switch to a multi-element fertilizer during the bud growth stage.
Overview of Orchid Fertilization
Orchids are heat-tolerant but not cold-tolerant, preferring a warm and humid environment. Different varieties have different cold and heat resistance, but most orchids grow slowly below 5°C and above 35°C.
Orchids can be fertilized with a moderate amount of inorganic fertilizer, which needs to be diluted with water. After dilution, spray the solution once every ten days to make the leaves denser and greener. Orchid-specific slow-release fertilizer can effectively promote root growth, but the amount should not be excessive, as it can burn the roots and affect the normal growth of orchids.
What Type of Fertilizer is Good for Orchids
1. Orchids require phosphorus and potassium fertilizers during flowering to help them bloom quickly, such as monopotassium phosphate and Huaduo No. 2. Stop using phosphorus and potassium fertilizers after the flowers fade.
2. When orchids enter the bud growth stage, use a multi-element fertilizer or a fertilizer with a high nitrogen content and other essential elements to promote rapid bud and leaf growth.
3. For orchid foliar application, an inorganic fertilizer can be used, but it must be diluted first before spraying on the leaves. This should be done about every ten days to keep the leaves green.
How to Fertilize Orchids
In spring and autumn, when the leaves are growing, use fertilizers containing nitrogen and potassium, such as urea, to make the orchid cells expand, promote stem and leaf growth, and make the leaves lush and dark green. Fertilization should be done on sunny days, and avoid fertilizing when the temperature exceeds 30°C.
Spring Fertilization: When the average daily temperature reaches 10°C in spring, orchids can start to grow. The best time to fertilize is when the average daily temperature is above 15°C for five consecutive days. A mixture of organic fertilizer and a high-nitrogen compound fertilizer can be used for root application.
Summer Fertilization: In summer, orchids enter a dormant period, so their fertilizer needs are low. It is advisable to stop fertilizing to protect the orchids better. If the indoor temperature can be controlled around 30°C, a light foliar fertilizer can be sprayed.
Autumn Fertilization: The best time for autumn orchid fertilization is from late August to early October, as the nutritional needs are high. A diluted fertilizer or decomposed liquid fertilizer can be used to supplement the need for nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium fertilizers.
Winter Fertilization: Winter base fertilizer is used to meet the nutritional needs for bud morphological differentiation and the basic nutrients for the entire growth period. Fertilization can be carried out just as winter begins.
Key Points to Note When Fertilizing Orchids
1. When fertilizing orchids, organic fertilizers must be fully fermented, and inorganic fertilizers should be kept away from the roots, as proximity can severely burn the orchid. Both organic and inorganic fertilizers need to be highly diluted when used.
2. If root burning occurs during orchid fertilization, the damaged roots should be cut off cleanly. After pruning, the roots should be thoroughly disinfected before being replanted.
3. If the orchid leaves turn yellow due to excessive fertilization, promptly wash away the fertilizer in the soil with water. If caused by strong sunlight, place the orchid in a shaded position.
4. Orchids prefer a semi-shaded environment and are sensitive to strong sunlight. After fertilizing, place them in a diffused light environment, as excessive light can affect plant growth.
The above information provides a comprehensive guide to orchid fertilization. Green plant enthusiasts can refer to this for guidance.