Best fertilizer for phalaenopsis?

[Plant Happy]

NYCorchidman, do I understand you correctly that you soak your orchids in a weak fertilizer solution every time versus watering, say with a watering can?

Also have a question about premixing the fertilizer solution. If I mix a weak solution, do I need to use that solution all at once or can it safely remain in a container for later use without degrading?

Thanks for your wonderful help!

PS My one and only Paphiopedilum is getting ready to open its bloom. Once I figure out how to post a pic I'll share its glory like the proud Gramma I am, but in the right forum (of course).

[DavidCampen]

Originally Posted by Jungeoma

...If the community has water that is not 100 % good and has a lot of bacteria in it it is best to have RO water for drinking.

Then the water is not in compliance with mandatory Federal standards.

[Orchid Whisperer]

Originally Posted by DavidCampen

Then the water is not in compliance with mandatory Federal standards.

Quite true David. A community water supply with "a lot of bacteria in it" is in violation of USEPA and state Primary Maximum Contaminant Levels and gets shut down. You might get this situation in a private single household domestic well, but not a community water supply.

[Jungeoma]

AOS has a Webinar entitled "It's all about the roots" which is free for everyone, meaning non-members. All one has to do is sign in. It is extremely detailed and gives tips on how to water and fertilize.

[Plant Happy]

Jungeoma, thanks! I'll check it out~

[Jenzinger]

Originally Posted by Orchid Whisperer

Orchid fertilizer does not need to be urea-free. The notion got started back when poorly manufactured urea fertilzer sometimes contained high levels of biuret. Biuret can be harmful at high concentrations. With modern fertilizer production methods, biuret is not a concern.

A scientific study a few years ago proved that orchids use urea quite effectively. That study was performed with Phalaenopsis orchids.

Thank you for this post - here is the link to the study. I think it is important that people start looking at scientific evidence rather than continue promoting ideas based on hearsay...

Plant and Soil
June 2009, Volume 319, Issue 1-2, pp 95-100
Phalaenopsis can absorb urea directly through their roots
Martin Trépanier, Marie-Pierre Lamy, Blanche Dansereau