Kitchen secrets: Two‑ingredient boost for blooming orchids
Many people dream of seeing their orchids finally bloom. Sometimes, proper care alone is not enough. The right fertiliser can help. Interestingly, we can create a fertiliser using just two common ingredients in most kitchens.
27 November 2024 18:01
Orchids grace many Polish homes. Not only are they beautiful, but they also boast a lengthy blooming period. However, caring for them can be quite an art that not everyone can master. We offer some advice on how you can achieve this with ease.
How to care for an orchid?
Orchids require the right environment to thrive. A crucial factor is maintaining a temperature range of 15 to 25 degrees Celsius. This is why they flourish in home settings. Many people are unaware that these plants are quite sensitive to light. They adore bright rooms, but ensuring that sunlight doesn't fall directly on their leaves is vital, thereby reducing the risk of leaf burn.
No less important is the correct watering of orchids. The water should be lukewarm and preferably settled. Avoiding excessive moisture can lead to root rot. Many gardeners recommend placing the plant pot in a water container for a few minutes, allowing it to absorb as much water as it needs.
Homemade orchid fertiliser
When orchids have the ideal conditions, they often reward us with lush blooms. However, if they still fail to produce new buds, it's worth considering adding a fertiliser. Instead of purchasing one, you can make it at home with ingredients you likely already have.
First, we'll need about 470 millilitres of water. It's best if the water is slightly settled, allowing some of the chlorine to evaporate. Next, simply squeeze about 5 drops of lemon juice into the water and stir. Finally, water the plant with the mixture, and you're done. It's recommended to repeat this treatment every 3 to 4 weeks.
The prepared solution will help lower the pH of the soil in which the orchid grows, facilitating the absorption of nutrients necessary for proper growth. Additionally, this mixture can bolster the plant, as lemon juice is rich in vitamins and minerals.