Slow release fertiliser pellets

[Suresh Kalyanpur]

I just bought a couple of Paphs - the first time I 'm trying this variety of orchids. The nurery has suggested using slow release fertiliser pellets. Could someone throw some light on this. Are there many types? What is the composition of these pellets? Any names/brands that you could recommend? Are they expensive and roughly what do they cost? If one uses this form of feed, does it mean that you do not have to give the plant any other form of fertilisers? Need some guidance.
Thanks in advance

[orchidsamore]

There are two major types. Temperature released like Osmocote, which is released when temperatures are over 75 degrees and water released like Nutracote (Dynamite brand).

I do not recommend the temperature release for orchids and use only the water release.

It comes in a pellet to release with each watering. It can be bought to cover a specific period of time like 3 or 6 months. Theoretically you do not need to do any other fertilizing.

Problems are that it is easier to burn roots with overdoses and some just never dissolves so you can under fertilize as well. With outdoor growing in Florida the release can be shorter than rated from all the summer rains.

It is of course easier than regular application of liquids.

[Suresh Kalyanpur]

Thank you Jerry