Orchids are one of the most appreciated plants by gardening enthusiasts due to their beauty and elegance. However, their cultivation can present certain challenges, especially when it comes to their nutrition. Using a natural fertilizer for orchids helps these plants grow healthy and bloom more frequently, without having to resort to chemicals.
If you want to know How to make and apply this type of fertilizersIn this article we will explain everything you need. We will see the most effective types of fertilizers, their preparation, the best ways of application and some key tips to ensure optimal growth of your orchids.
Types of natural fertilizer for orchids
The Orchids have particular nutritional needs, so not any fertilizer will serve for their correct development. Below, we show you the best homemade fertilizers which you can use:
- Dry yeast: Rich in nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, it helps the growth of roots and flowers.
- Coffee and black tea: They contain minerals that strengthen the plant and stimulate its flowering.
- Organic commercial fertilizers: They are a safe alternative if you prefer a ready-made product.
How to make natural fertilizer for orchids
Here are several alternatives:
Preparing yeast water
Dry yeast is an excellent homemade fertilizer that provides essential nutrients. To prepare it, follow these steps:
- dissolve 7 grams of dry yeast in 100 ml of hot water.
- Add 2 liters of cold water and mix well.
- Let it sit until the mixture is completely cool.
This fertilizer is ideal for terrestrial orchids and should be applied every Two or three weeks during the flowering phase.
Using coffee and black tea to fertilize orchids
Coffee and black tea contain nutrients that can benefit orchids. To use them correctly:
- Coffee: Mix 100 ml of brewed coffee with 2 litres of water. Make sure it is cold before using.
- black tea: Prepare an infusion with 250 ml of water and mix with 2 liters of cold water.
Both fertilizers should be applied every Two or three weeks and always in small amounts to avoid excess acidity in the substrate.
How to apply fertilizer to orchids
Applying fertilizer correctly is just as important as choosing the right one. Follow these recommendations to avoid problems:
- Immerse the pot with the orchid in a container with the selected fertilizer.
- Let it soak for a few minutes so that the substrate absorbs the solution.
- Remove the pot and let excess water drain before replacing it.
This process ensures that the plant receives the nutrients optimally without damage to the roots.
When to fertilize orchids
It is essential to know the right time to fertilize orchids, since doing so at the wrong phase can harm their growth:
- During the growth phase It is the best time to fertilize, especially when new leaves appear.
- Orchids have a latency period (usually in winter), during which they should not be fertilized.
- If the plant is in poor condition, avoid fertilizing it until it recovers.
Respecting these cycles helps to achieve abundant flowering and keep the plant healthy throughout the year.
Using natural fertilizers for orchids is a sustainable and economical way to provide them with the necessary nutrients. You have already seen that products that you can have in the pantry such as dry yeast or coffee are strategic allies in the cultivation of these plants. If you follow the application recommendations and respect the fertilization times, you will get your orchids to bloom more frequently and maintain a healthy look and vibrant.
