Ever wondered how to achieve a vibrantly lush orchid? Nurserymen employ this entirely natural method, and now you can too. Here’s how to do it.
Growing Lush Orchids Orchids, with over 25,000 species, were once considered plants for the elite but are now common in many homes due to their adaptability. With a few simple care techniques, you can keep your orchids flourishing continuously.
Essential Care Tips for Orchids Before diving into the specific natural method used by nurserymen, it’s important to cover some fundamental care tips to ensure your orchid thrives. Orchids need a stable environment free from drastic temperature changes and direct sunlight, which can harm the leaves and flowers. It’s also crucial to avoid placing orchids near frequently opened windows or radiators.
Watering your orchid properly involves immersing it in a basin of water for about half an hour, allowing the plant to absorb the necessary moisture. This routine ensures the orchid remains hydrated without overwatering.
The Secret to a Thriving Orchid While proper temperature control and watering are vital, the secret to promoting robust growth and prolonged blooming lies in an effective, homemade fertilization method.
Using Walnut Shells as Fertilizer Walnut shells are rich in nutrients beneficial for orchids, promoting growth and helping to repair damaged plant tissues. They can also be used to enhance soil drainage, similar to expanded clay.
Here’s how to create a walnut shell fertilizer:
- Place the shells of about 20 walnuts in a pot.
- Cover them with 1 liter of water and bring to a boil.
- Simmer for about 20 minutes with the lid on; this process will release a nutrient-rich oil from the shells.
- After cooling, filter the mixture to separate the liquid from the shells.
- Dilute this dark liquid with water at a ratio of one part walnut solution to two parts water.
Your homemade orchid fertilizer is now ready to use. Apply it to the soil around the orchid roots, being careful to avoid the leaves. The nutrients in walnut shells, including fibers, amino acids, alkaloids, organic acids, and proteins, will significantly enhance your orchid’s lushness and overall health.
