How to kick phal into root growth mode?

[ridethespiral]

AFAIK, you still have to supplement the fish tank water with nutrients. Generally my fish tank water is around 10-20ppm nitrate, and people are using around 100ppm nitrate to feed their orchids. I run a natural planted tank with dirt substrate and only do water changes twice a year (yes, you read that correctly) Here's a link to my tank log (I haven't updated it in nearly two years and will do so soon, bringing it back to full glory again)

75g D. Walstad inspired Natural Planted Tank !56k! [12/21/11]

I appreciate the links, and I will certainly look into local supplies. I was just pretty discouraged when I saw the prices at the hydro store I went to.

[Wild Orchid]

Originally Posted by ridethespiral

I appreciate the links, and I will certainly look into local supplies. I was just pretty discouraged when I saw the prices at the hydro store I went to.

How true - sigh!

Well, for a starter, seaweed from CT, epsom salts from London Drugs (1 kg for about $6) and good old Shultz fertizlier should meet your needs at least for a year.

There's an argument that orchids actually don't need much fertilizing if any, and that a good culture (temps, moisture, lighth level ) should be enough and that anything extra "made for orchids in mind" is just a marketing gimmic.

Not to get into an argument with anyone, as we agree to disagree..... but I hope this info would be helpful.

Happy growing!