Can you over fertilize orchids?
Too much or too strong fertilizer can burn orchid leaves and roots. This helps reduce salt buildup and the possibility of root burn. Most vandaceous orchids do best with copious amounts of fertilizer, and during growth may benefit from dilute applications of fertilizer as often as twice a week.
When should you not fertilize orchids?
Many orchids need a period of dormancy—or rest—generally in winter. During this time, when you should reduce or stop fertilizing, plants strengthen their root systems, grow leaves, and stockpile energy for their next growth spurt and bloom. Typically, an orchid can rebloom every 8 to 12 months.
How often should you water and feed orchids?
Phalaenopsis Orchid Phalaenopsis orchids generally require brief dry periods between every watering.
Should you fertilize orchids when blooming?
Fertilizing: The When While your orchid is resting, aim to fertilize it at least once a month and at most every other week. 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.
How much fertilizer do orchids need?
Orchids will do far better with too little fertilizer than with too much. Many growers recommend the “weakly, weekly” approach, applying a dilute (1/4 strength) fertilizer each time they water, rather than applying a full dose once a month.
Can orchids survive without fertilizer?
Fertilizer. Orchids will grow and flower, given that their other requirements are met, for fairly long periods without fertilizer but you’ll get better results with some level of feeding (Figure 3). Typically plants are fertilized once a week during the summer and every two weeks in the fall and winter.
How do I keep my orchid blooming?
5 Ways to Keep Your Orchid Alive
- Let there be (bright, indirect) light! An east-facing window that gets morning light is ideal.
- Not too hot, not too cold. Phalaelnopsis are happy in the same temps we are: above 60º at night and between 70º and 80º during the day.
- Cut spent blooms.
- Remember food and water.
- Repot on occasion.
How do I get my orchids to bloom more?
Follow these simple steps to help reblooming begin.
- Continue to water your orchid with 3 ice cubes once a week.
- Fertilize your orchid once or twice a month using a balanced houseplant fertilizer at half strength.
- Help your orchids grow by providing plenty of indirect sunlight.
- Put your orchid in a cooler spot at night.
Should you water orchids while blooming?
Regularly water orchids that are blooming, growing new roots, or new leaves. While some orchids such as Cattleyas and Dendrobiums like to dry out between watering, others such as Phalaenopsis and Paphiopedilums like to remain evenly moist.