How to use Seaweed Extract to save struggling plants

[drtd]

I have a few sick orchids that are struggling to put on new roots and I was thinking about using seaweed extract to help things along. I just have a couple of questions about the application process.

1) Do I apply it to the media, or directly to the existing roots (of which there are very few)?

2) How often should I apply and at what strength?

3) Should I discontinue when I observe new root growth, or continue for a set period of time to ensure success?

Any input in this matter would be helpful as I have never used seaweed extract before. The plants that I am trying to save are a NoID Phal that has been struggling to put on new roots for a few months now, and a division of Ornithophora radicans (formarly Sygmatostalix radicans) that has been struggling a little since being divided from my mother plant a few months ago.

-Danny

[Orchids4ever]

Originally Posted by drtd

I have a few sick orchids that are struggling to put on new roots and I was thinking about using seaweed extract to help things along. I just have a couple of questions about the application process.

1) Do I apply it to the media, or directly to the existing roots (of which there are very few)?

2) How often should I apply and at what strength?

3) Should I discontinue when I observe new root growth, or continue for a set period of time to ensure success?

Any input in this matter would be helpful as I have never used seaweed extract before. The plants that I am trying to save are a NoID Phal that has been struggling to put on new roots for a few months now, and a division of Ornithophora radicans (formarly Sygmatostalix radicans) that has been struggling a little since being divided from my mother plant a few months ago.

-Danny

Hi
I can only tell you what i do
mix 1 teaspoon to a Gallon of water,then water your Orchids with it as you normally do.
I use it on my Orchids about every 2/3 Months.
At repotting Time -after i have taken of all the old bark -I soak them in seaweed for about 1/2 Hour before putting them into the new media
Hope this helps.

[JanS]

In addition to watering with the solution, you can also pour it or spray it on the leaves and stem. This increases absorption, especially for plants that don't have many healthy roots. I also use 1 tblsp per gallon, but I guess it depends on how concentrated the original extract is. The good news is that you can't burn the plant so there is a wider latitude with how much to use. I add it every 3rd watering with no bad results and lots of root growth.

[drtd]

Thank to everyone who responded! I am going to give it a try and hopefully save some beautiful plants! I will post updates on the progress!

-Danny

[orchidsarefun]

maybe you can topdress with some locally found seaweed ? I wonder how that is desalinated....

[drtd]

I live very close to the Pacific ocean (<60 miles) and could easily get some. I suppose multiple rain water rinses could desalinate it, but would it have the same effect as liquid application? Maybe over time as it breaks down, but I cannot see it having any immediate effects.

[orchidsarefun]

Originally Posted by drtd

I live very close to the Pacific ocean (<60 miles) and could easily get some. I suppose multiple rain water rinses could desalinate it, but would it have the same effect as liquid application? Maybe over time as it breaks down, but I cannot see it having any immediate effects.

maybe cut into the media too like a poor man's sphagnum. I wonder if anyone in your area has tried it.

[drtd]

Could be worth a try! About a year ago I switched from fir bark to Giant Sequoia bark with amazing success, so I am more than willing to think outside of the box