Plants need to be fertilized - almost everyone knows this, even beginner flower growers. The frequency and intensity of feeding is determined by the type of plant, as well as by what goals the owner pursues.
Most orchids are decorative flowering plants, that is, their main aesthetic value is in flowers. However, the leaf mass and root system are also important for plant he alth.
As a rule, orchid fertilizer contains 3 main components: potassium, nitrogen and phosphorus. Their percentage ratio is extremely important, since different combinations will affect the plant in different ways. Potassium and nitrogen stimulate the growth of the green part: leaves and roots, which is very important for decorative leafy plants. Phosphorus stimulates flowering. Orchid fertilizer can be organic or inorganic, it doesn't really matter. The type is also selected based on the preferences and convenience of the grower - sticks, pastes, liquid dressings, powders - the shape does not play a special role.
Fertilizer should be chosen based on the fact that it should contain more phosphorus than nitrogen and potassium, if the goal is to make the plant bloom. If fertilizerfor orchids with such a composition could not be found, you can purchase an option just for flowering plants, however, its concentration should be lower than according to the instructions, since most orchids have a very delicate root system.
Feeding for orchids should not be carried out too often, it is important not to overdo it in this matter. Many orchids have a dormant period, such as dendrobiums. At such a time, watering practically stops, and it is also contraindicated to fertilize the plant. Phalaenopsis, the most common orchid plants found in homes, do not have a dormant period, so they can be fertilized all year round, but in autumn and winter it is recommended to do this less often - once every 2-3 weeks. The main thing is to exercise moderation. In case of any doubt, it is better to consult more experienced growers.
Many orchid owners wait a long time for their wards flowers and smear their buds with cytokinin paste. You should not get carried away with this, it is better to think about it than to fertilize an orchid so that it blooms. If even some time after the start of feeding the plant does not want to bloom, you should be patient. This happens: the orchid seems to fall asleep: no new leaves, no peduncles. It is important not to overdo it in an effort to make it bloom, because this plant requires a lot of strength. You need to adjust watering if it occurs irregularly, and also continue to apply fertilizer for orchids in a suitable mode. After a while, the plant will "come to life".
There are also decorative foliage, socalled precious orchids - makodes, ludisia and
some more species that appreciate the beautiful leaf mass. They should do the opposite - they are more useful potash and nitrogen fertilizers for orchids, but flowering is undesirable, because after that new leaves can grow smaller.
Growing plants is a rather complicated, but also extremely interesting process. It is important to find suitable species for yourself that will be a pleasure to deal with. And orchids in this sense are one of the most popular and easy-to-care options.
