How to Make and Use Organic Garlic Fertilizer for Orchids

Orchids are delicate plants that require proper nutrition and care to grow strong and bloom beautifully. One of the best natural fertilizers you can use for orchids is made from garlic and milk. Garlic contains essential oils that help fight fungi and pests, while milk provides calcium and other nutrients that strengthen orchids. In this guide, I will show you how to prepare and use garlic fertilizer effectively to enhance the health and growth of your orchids.

Step 1: Preparing the Garlic Fertilizer

To create this organic fertilizer, you will need the following ingredients:

  • 1 clove of garlic
  • 1 gallon (about 3.785 liters) of water
  • 2 tablespoons of milk

Instructions:

  1. Take one clove of garlic and crush it slightly to release its natural oils.
  2. Soak the garlic in warm water for 2 hours. This allows the nutrients from the garlic to infuse into the water.
  3. After soaking, strain the mixture to remove any solid garlic pieces.
  4. Add water to the solution until you have a total of 1 gallon (3.785 liters).
  5. Stir in 2 tablespoons of milk. Milk provides essential nutrients such as calcium, which is crucial for plant growth and resistance to disease.

Now your garlic fertilizer is ready to use! Below are three effective methods to apply it to your orchids.

Step 2: First Method – Cleaning the Leaf Surface

One of the best ways to use this garlic fertilizer is to clean the surface of orchid leaves. Keeping the leaves clean ensures better photosynthesis and prevents fungal and insect infestations.

Why This Works:

  • Garlic has natural antifungal and antibacterial properties that help protect leaves from disease.
  • Cleaning the leaves allows orchids to absorb more sunlight and perform better photosynthesis.
  • Milk provides calcium, which strengthens the leaf structure and keeps it healthy.

How to Apply:

  • Dip a soft cloth or cotton pad into the garlic fertilizer solution.
  • Gently wipe both the top and bottom surfaces of the orchid leaves.
  • Repeat this process 1-2 times per month to keep the leaves clean and healthy.

Step 3: Second Method – Spraying the Entire Orchid

Another excellent way to use this fertilizer is by spraying it directly on the orchid leaves, stems, and aerial roots. This method allows orchids to absorb nutrients quickly and prevents pest attacks.

Why This Works:

  • Garlic contains essential oils that repel insects and prevent fungal infections.
  • Spraying aerial roots helps them develop and absorb moisture effectively.
  • The milk in the solution nourishes the plant and promotes overall growth.

How to Apply:

  • Pour the garlic fertilizer into a spray bottle.
  • Lightly mist the entire orchid, focusing on the aerial roots and leaf surfaces.
  • Repeat this process once every two weeks for optimal results.

Step 4: Third Method – Watering the Orchid Roots

The final and most important method is watering the orchid roots with the garlic fertilizer. This ensures that the plant absorbs the essential nutrients directly from the roots.

Why This Works:

  • The milk in the solution provides natural calcium, which strengthens the roots and enhances nutrient absorption.
  • Garlic helps prevent root rot and fungal infections that can damage orchids.
  • Regular watering with this solution improves resistance to pests and diseases.

How to Apply:

  • Pour the garlic fertilizer gently onto the roots of the orchid.
  • Water the plant with this solution 1-2 times per month.
  • Avoid overwatering, as orchids prefer slightly dry conditions between watering sessions.

Step 5: Observing Results and Adjusting Care

After consistently applying this fertilizer, you should start seeing noticeable improvements in your orchid’s health.

Expected Results:

  • Stronger Root System: The roots will become more robust and resistant to diseases.
  • Greener, Healthier Leaves: The leaves will look fresher, shinier, and more vibrant.
  • More Vibrant Flowers: The orchid will produce larger, longer-lasting blooms with richer colors.
  • Better Resistance to Pests: Regular use of this fertilizer will help keep harmful insects away.

Additional Orchid Care Tips

  • Use in Moderation: Over-fertilizing can harm orchids, so stick to a schedule of 1-2 times per month.
  • Provide Proper Drainage: Ensure your orchid pot has good drainage to prevent root rot.
  • Maintain Optimal Light Conditions: Place orchids in a bright, indirect light environment for best growth.
  • Monitor for Pests: If you notice pests, increase the frequency of spraying with the garlic solution.

Conclusion

Using garlic fertilizer is an easy, natural way to improve orchid health and encourage beautiful blooms. By following these three simple application methods—cleaning the leaves, spraying the plant, and watering the roots—you can provide your orchids with the nutrients they need to thrive. With regular care and attention, your orchids will grow stronger, bloom more frequently, and remain resistant to pests and diseases. Try this method today and enjoy the beauty of healthy, flourishing orchids!

jardin