Part 2 of 3: Watering, Feeding, and Pruning Orchids
Related Question
How do you feed a potted orchid? (video)
What is the best fertilizer for orchids?
Orchids need to be fed regularly. Growers suggest using a "balanced" fertilizer such as 20-20-20 that includes all "necessary trace elements." Regardless of the fertilizer formulation you choose to use, it should contain little or no urea. via
How do you take care of an indoor orchid plant?
Place a water-filled saucer or tray of pebbles beneath plants, mist plants daily, or use a humidifier. Fertilize orchids weekly or bi-weekly while they are producing new growth and decrease to monthly or bi-monthly intervals once they mature. Discontinue altogether once the plants go dormant. via
What do you feed an orchid?
Choose a fertilizer that contains equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium (look for 20-20-20 on the label). Fertilizer should be used at half-strength, mixing it with an equal amount of water before applying it to your orchid. via
Are coffee grounds good for orchids?
Orchids require very low amounts of fertilizer when they are actively growing leaves and roots. Coffee grounds are an excellent fertilizer, especially for orchids and African violets. via
How do I force my orchid to bloom?
Help your orchids grow by providing plenty of indirect sunlight. Put your orchid in a cooler spot at night. Cooler nighttime temperatures (55 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit) help new flower spikes emerge. When a new spike appears, you can return your orchid to its normal setting. via
Do you water orchids from the top or bottom?
When you water, water thoroughly: The water should pour out from the bottom of the pot. Never let the pots of orchids sit in water for over a few hours: If the orchid pots have saucers, make sure to keep them free of water. via
Should you mist orchids?
Misting gives the orchid more humidity but does not create a soggy root environment. It is best to put your orchid where it will receive medium indirect sunlight. To ensure bright blooms and a healthy plant, use a potting mixture and a fertilizer that is specifically designed for orchids. via
What does Epsom salt do for orchids?
According to the Epsom Salt Council, the white crystalline “makes plants grow bushier, produces more flowers, increases chlorophyll production, and deters pests (including slugs).” Commercial orchid growers have been supplementing their feeding regimes for more than a century and cite noticeable improvement in the bud via
How long will orchids live indoors?
If you're planting orchids indoors, then it can last 10 to 15 years with proper care. Make sure you properly water the orchids as orchids can't live without water for too long, and in a week or two, the leaves start wilting and dying. In the wild, the orchids can last several decades up to a century. via
How do you keep potted orchids alive?
Should I water my orchid with ice cubes?
The short answer is: Yes! The results from the experiment show that ice cubes are a practical way to water Phalaenopsis orchids grown in bark media. The recommendation from Green Circle Growers, which we used during the experiment, was three ice cubes, once a week. via
Should I fertilize my orchid while it is blooming?
You can fertilize your orchid while it's in bloom, but it's really not necessary. Performing this step during the resting phase helps give your orchid extra nutrients for reblooming. via
How do you feed an orchid with a banana? (video)
Are eggshells good for orchids?
Eggshells are packed with generous amounts of calcium and potassium, which orchids need in order to thrive. Simply save eggshells and crush them using a blender or a mortar and pestle. via
Are banana peels good for orchids?
Orchid Food
Banana peels provide a natural way to give your orchids potassium, potash, phosphorous, nitrogen and magnesium, although not in huge quantities. Use the peels in between regular fertilizer treatments to give your orchids an added nutrition boost. via
What is the best thing to clean orchid leaves with?
You can use lemon (or lime) juice mixed with a bit of water. Lemon juice is acidic so it helps to dissolve the above mention residues. Simply take a cotton round and dip it in the juice and gently wipe off any spots you see. via