How should beginners start fertilizing?
Written by
Kiana Okafor
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.It may seem unsafe to start orchid fertilizing. Still, it can be simplified with an appropriate plan of action. I began with quarter-strength formulas on my first Phalaenopsis to avoid root burn. I also believed in watering the roots before fertilizing. I applied in the early morning hours when the plant is in a better state to absorb. Also, keep a record of how the orchid responds so that you can make adjustments in the future.
Essential Starting Practices
- Begin with quarter-strength balanced formulas
- Apply only to pre-moistened roots
- Use weekly weakly method consistently
- Flush monthly with pure water
Equipment Essentials
- Graduated cylinder for precise dilution
- Long-spout watering can for root targeting
- pH/TDS meters for water testing
- Notebook for tracking plant responses
Observation Milestones
- New white root tips within 3 weeks
- Uniform leaf color without spotting
- Firm plump pseudobulbs showing hydration
- Emerging flower spikes signaling health
From day one, use the weekly method. You'll want to dilute the fertilizer to quarter strength and apply it every seven days. Weekly applications will go a long way in preventing the build-up of salt, and are preferable to feeding monthly with full-strength fertilizer. You will want to water thoroughly first to protect the roots. I had excellent success with my beginner plants with this routine.
Make sure to flush every month before all else. That is to say, pour three times the volume of the pot that is full of pure water through that media. Continue letting it drain until the TDS level is lower than 100 ppm. This will excel in the removal of accumulated salts, protecting those sensitive roots. I keep mine on the first weekend of the month.
Maintain a designated growing journal at every step along the way, recording fertilizer amounts and dates, as well as general plant responses. Take photographs documenting new root growth and new leaves. Adapt to the observations you make, rather than adhering to a rigid schedule. From my notes, I discovered that Cattleyas needed considerably less nitrogen than Phalaenopsis, and this made a noticeable difference in new growth.
Proceed slowly as your confidence develops. After six months, try either half-strength formulas or no formula at all. Also, experiment with using natural ingredients, such as banana peel tea. Then, eventually, we make seasonal adjustments. Your orchids will tell you when they are ready by growing vigorously to reward each careful step taken.
Read the full article: How to Fertilize Orchids: Ultimate Guide
