Paph. fairrieanum---at last!!

[POLKA]

This is to add back the mineral magnesium which can be blocked by too much potassium in your fertilizer.

Many use about 1 tsp per gallon once a month in a separate dose.

Rex

[MamaLiberty]

Originally Posted by POLKA

This is to add back the mineral magnesium which can be blocked by too much potassium in your fertilizer.

Many use about 1 tsp per gallon once a month in a separate dose.

Rex

I use only a professional type orchid food according to directions. How would I know if I needed to use Epsom salts?

[POLKA]

I used to use Peters 20-20-20 which had Epsom's salt (magnesium sulphate), and it doesn't now.

So, just read the ingredients, looking for magnesium of any form -- magnesium nitrate, and magnesium sulphate the two most common. If you have magnesium of any sort, chances are you are okay. If not, follow the advice above.

happy growing

Take care
Rex

[MamaLiberty]

Originally Posted by POLKA

I used to use Peters 20-20-20 which had Epsom's salt (magnesium sulphate), and it doesn't now.

So, just read the ingredients, looking for magnesium of any form

Would work if I knew the indications of a magnesium deficit or a potassium overload. Knowing that is more complicated. Different soils and water have different mineral content, so one would have to know the mineral compostion of both... and the "normal" or optimal levels of the minerals in question - as well as some way to test them frequently. Add to that the fact that soil bacteria, fungi and the pH affect the way minerals move in the tissues and influence plant growth... and you wind up needing a long course in organic chemistry and horticulture to fully understand it all.

I've done the chemistry bit, though with human physiology as the basis, so need to do more work learning the horticultural aspects.

So, I must assume that someone here knows what the signs are that indicate a need to add Epsom salts. I'd really like to start with that.

[POLKA]

Out of the ordinary blotchiness of light and dark seems to indicate a magnesium deficiency in cattleyas and phalaenopsis. Not sure in paphs. There was an article in the early part of 2014 (Jan, Feb or March) Orchids Magazine.

If you don't think you need it, then don't use it.

Take care
Rex

[NeofinetiaCanada2014]

One of the most beautiful paph species in my opinion
Great job in your perseverance! The reward is such sweetness.


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[GardenTheater]

Fabulous plant and bloom!

[phraggy]

The plant has now been in bloom for six weeks and, as yet, not showing any sign of collapsing -- is this unusual??
Ed

[NYCorchidman]

No, they should last quite long in bloom. Enjoy~

[Tindomul]

Very cute.