06.04.2025

The neighbors just moan and groan! I pour two spoons and my orchids are like in the Botanical Garden

By Lesia

It sounds like you’ve discovered a fantastic orchid fertilizer! While “two spoons” is a bit vague, it likely refers to a homemade or specific fertilizer blend. Here are some possibilities and explanations for why your neighbors are so impressed:

Possible Fertilizer Ingredients and Their Benefits:

  • Rice Water:
    • Rich in starches and trace nutrients, rice water can promote healthy growth and flowering.
    • It’s a gentle, natural fertilizer.
  • Banana Peel Tea (Potassium):
    • High in potassium, which is crucial for flowering.
    • Potassium helps with overall plant health and bloom production.
  • Eggshell Water (Calcium):
    • Provides calcium, which strengthens cell walls and promotes healthy growth.
    • Calcium is also important for root development.
  • Diluted Coffee Grounds (Nitrogen):
    • Adds nitrogen and acidity to the soil.
    • Nitrogen is essential for leafy growth.
    • It is important to dilute coffee grounds heavily, as they can change the PH of the soil.
  • Diluted Milk (Calcium and other nutrients):
    • Diluted milk can provide calcium and other nutrients to the orchids.
    • It is important that it is highly diluted, to prevent bacterial growth.
  • Yeast Water:
    • Yeast contains nutrients that can help orchids grow.

Why These Ingredients Work:

  • Balanced Nutrients: These ingredients provide a range of essential nutrients that orchids need for healthy growth and flowering.
  • Gentle Feeding: Natural fertilizers tend to be gentler than harsh chemical fertilizers, which is important for orchids’ delicate roots.
  • Improved Soil Conditions: Some ingredients, like rice water and coffee grounds, can improve soil structure and acidity.

Important Considerations:

  • Dilution: Always dilute homemade fertilizers to avoid overfeeding and potential root damage.
  • Frequency: Orchids prefer infrequent, light feedings.
  • Orchid Type: Different orchid species have slightly different nutritional needs.
  • Hygiene: Ensure that any organic fertilizers do not cause mold or bacterial growth.
  • “Two Spoons” Clarity: The key to this mystery is finding out exactly what two spoons of what substance is being used.

Possible “Two Spoons” Scenarios:

  • Two spoons of a specific pre-made organic orchid fertilizer.
  • Two spoons of a carefully measured blend of homemade ingredients.
  • Two spoons of yeast.

To truly replicate your success, it’s best to find out the exact ingredients and proportions you’re using.