VERMICOMPOST FOR ORCHIDS

[nynighthawk]

Thanks so much for this discussion, folks.

I have a worm bin at home and have been adding some of the leachate to my watering (2 turkey-basters-full to a gallon of water) and fertilizing. But I'm a newbie orchid addict and don't have any long-term comparison between plants with and without this additive. I just figured that it would add beneficial microbes and nutrients and enzymes to the plant medium. It's interesting to hear all your comments and experience.

You guys are the best!

I hope there will be followup on this thread from time to time with additional examples of how this additive works for you.

I feel better about how I've been using the leachate and may try adding some to my foliar spray for its insecticidal benefits.

When I repot my cymbidiums, I'll be adding a little vermicompost to the mix. I had suspected that it'd be a good addition, but I'm glad to see Lemonchan's comment that it's been beneficial.

Thanks again.

[orchidsamore]

Tropic

I missed seeing your post asking for more info on Bracillus.

There are several beneficial bacillus bacteria with Bacillus subtilis GB03 being the main ingredient in the product I use (Companion brand made by Growth Products.

A quick search on the INTERNET will produce a number of scientific studies.

I have approached my use on experience rather than theory. I find that my plants using the three products Worm leachate, Companion Brand Bacillus and Essential brand gibberetic acid greatly speeds the growth of my orchids when young.

I can take a seedling and grow it into a 2 inch pot root bound in 6-8 weeks. 4-6 months is the usual time without the solutions.

[sleepy]

where do you get the Bacillus and the Gibberetic acid

[orchidsamore]

They are both commercial agricultural supply products mad by Growth Products. They are only sold in large quantites.

I made a deal witht he manufacturer to be able to repackage in smaller quantities for hobbists and always have it available.

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