Home Remedy for Orchid Fertilizer

The elegant, eye-catching flower of an orchid in bloom never fails to impress.

Orchids have a reputation for being finicky and complicated to grow, which deters many people from trying to cultivate them. However, for most plant lovers, the breathtaking beauty of the exotic orchid blossom more than makes up for any additional gardening effort. While the specific growing requirements vary from species to species, all orchids will grow faster and bloom sooner if they are fertilized on a regular basis.

Nitrogen

Orchids require a plant food that is high in nitrogen in order to develop their lush, green leaves. This is because orchids are routinely potted in shredded bark. Most types of tree bark house nitrogen-loving bacteria that compete with the plant for nutrients. An orchid that is low on nitrogen will display yellow leaves and stunted growth. To add more nitrogen to an ailing orchid, open a bag of black tea and sprinkle the contents around the base of the plant. Tea is naturally rich in nitrogen and can be safely given to orchids once every four weeks.

Phosphorous

Phosphorous is necessary for the production of healthy roots and flowers. Orchids planted in a phosphorous-deficient medium display purplish leaves and stems or foliage streaked with yellow. Give orchids a phosphorous boost by adding eggshells to the soil. Crush 2 dozen eggshells and place the pieces in 1 gallon of hot water. Boil the shells for 20 minutes, remove the pan from the heat and allow the mixture to soak overnight. Filter out any solid pieces of shell and apply the remaining liquid to the orchids once a week until the orchid's foliage returns to its normal color.

Potassium

Orchids need potassium to develop their eye-catching blossoms. Without it, a plant may grow, but it will refuse to bloom. Potassium levels can be easily increased by pushing 1-inch pieces of banana peel into the soil. Alternatively, a solution made from 1 tsp. of black strap molasses and 1 qt. of water can be used as part of a normal watering routine. Regular use of this simple sugar-water concoction will ensure potassium levels remain high.

Multi-Purpose Fertilizer

Many orchid plants require more than one nutrient at a time to remain healthy. Milk is a natural source of nitrogen, calcium, magnesium and potassium. This combination of nutrients promotes flowering while encouraging the growth of both foliage and roots. To make a milk-based plant food, pour 1 cup of milk into 1 qt. of water and use the solution to water the plant. This fertilizer can be safely applied twice a month.

References

• Beautiful Orchids: Orchid Care Tips: Fertilizer
• "The Gardener's Handbook"; Peter McHoy; 2001
• "New Complete Guide to Gardening"; Susan A. Roth; 1997
• Organic Gardening Tips; Homemade Orchid Fertilizers, The Smart Way of Orchid Caring; Uno Birawan