How do natural fertilizers compare?
Written by
Kiana Okafor
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.Natural fertilizers provide distinct benefits over synthetic fertilizers for caring for orchids. After witnessing the damaging effects of chemical fertilizers on my collection, I now exclusively use natural fertilizers. Eggshells give native calcium. Banana peels provide a natural source of potassium. Coffee grounds offer a natural source of nitrogen. Each of these fertilizers provides plants with nutrients through a slow-release method, which matches the improved absorption rates of orchids.
Nutrient Profiles
- Eggshells: 95% calcium carbonate strengthening cell walls
- Banana peels: 42% potassium boosting disease resistance
- Coffee grounds: 2% nitrogen promoting leaf development
- Fish emulsion: Balanced NPK with trace minerals
Preparation Methods
- Eggshells: Rinse, dry, grind to powder, steep 48 hours
- Banana peels: Dry, chop, steep 3 days, dilute 1:4
- Coffee grounds: Triple rinse, sun-dry, apply monthly
- Fish emulsion: Dilute 1:4 with water before use
Application Timing
- Apply during active growth phases only
- Use monthly for continuous nutrient release
- Combine with pure water irrigation first
- Suspend during dormancy periods completely
Carefully apply the natural fertilizers. Start by thoroughly watering the roots with pure water. Carefully pour any solutions or powders directly onto the potting media, ensuring that you avoid spraying any onto the leaves. I recommend using eggshell powder at a monthly frequency during the spring growth stages. Also, during each flowering season, I would use banana tea. For the balance of nutrients, I rotate these options every quarter.
Pay attention to your orchids' behavior. Dark green leaves are signs that your orchids are receiving adequate nitrogen from coffee grounds. Long and strong flower spikes denote good potassium from banana peels. Thick and healthy roots indicate the benefits of calcium from eggshells. Reduce the application when you notice brown edges on the leaf tips to be sure your orchids are not overfed.
Natural alternatives offer sustainable and superior options to traditional chemistry. With care in preparation, they will never burn or kill roots. Over time, natural alternatives improve soil structure. They are a great way to recycle kitchen waste. My orchids have now started blooming longer with thicker petals, ever since I've been using solely organic nutrition for the last three years.
Read the full article: How to Fertilize Orchids: Ultimate Guide
