This simple fertilizer will make your orchid bloom for a long time: what is the secret

An orchid is a houseplant that can delight with its blooms for a really long time, which is why it is so popular. But not everyone can make the flowers last for weeks or even months.

Gardening experts say that this is due to care mistakes, including improper fertilization. OBOZ.UA figured out how to fix them.

How often does an orchid bloom

The frequency and duration of orchid flowering depends on the type of flower. For example, the most popular phalaenopsis can bloom throughout the year. However, after that, they rest for several months. Some types of orchids can bloom for two to six months. The duration of flowering is determined, in particular, by how much nutrition the flower receives from the substrate and the environment. Its vitality depends on this.

How to determine if an orchid needs fertilization

The plant always needs to be fed during the growing season. The fertilizing season for an orchid is spring, summer, and the first half of autumn. At this time, it actively forms new roots and leaves, lays buds and develops. But when the plant is dormant or has already bloomed, it is better not to fertilize it as it can be harmful.

The easiest and most convenient way to add fertilizer to the orchid substrate is to do it during watering. It is also the most effective. But it is important not to overdo it. The orchid is adapted to receive a minimum of nutrients and does not tolerate an excess of them very well. The flower may even die.

Usually, an exotic flower is fed with ready-made mixtures that are sold in any plant store. They are easy to use and well-balanced. In addition, they contain detailed instructions with dosages. But you can also prepare the fertilizer yourself.

Homemade orchid fertilizer

Before proceeding to the recipe, we note that experts do not recommend feeding the flower with herbal infusions, manure, and other organic matter. It is too likely that the dose of nutrients in the resulting solution will be exceeded. In addition, this can infect the flower with harmful microorganisms.

Instead, watering the plant with rice water may be more suitable. In addition to containing a large list of trace elements necessary for the orchid (phosphorus, calcium, iron, zinc, potassium, etc.), this fertilizer is also a breeding ground for mycorrhizal fungi, which help optimize the condition of the substrate for the flower. It also optimizes the acidity level of the soil.

To prepare rice water, soak a handful of rice in 2 liters of water and lightly mash the cereal. When the grains release their starch and the water turns white, strain the liquid. The rice water is ready. You can feed the orchid with this fertilizer no more than once a month.

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