Among many ornamental plants, the Phalaenopsis orchid has become a favorite of flower lovers in recent years. The reason is simple: first, its “flower language” carries auspicious meaning, symbolizing a bright future; second, its uniquely elegant blooms can instantly elevate the look of any home décor no matter where you place it.
Some people think caring for orchids just means giving them a bit of water from time to time. In reality, during the growing season, if you want the blooms to last longer and have more vivid colors, you need to apply fertilizer properly. So, when exactly should you fertilize, and what kind of fertilizer should you use? There is actually quite a bit of know-how involved.
Fertilizing Principles
Phalaenopsis orchids grow relatively quickly, so they do require proper fertilization during their growth period. The general rule is to fertilize frequently but lightly — in other words, always dilute the fertilizer before using it, and avoid strong, concentrated fertilizers. You can follow the dilution instructions on the product you purchase.
Typically, from June to September, Phalaenopsis enters its peak growth period, producing new roots and leaves. During this time, you can fertilize once a week, using a liquid fertilizer diluted 1:2000 with water, spraying it on the leaves and the potting medium. However, if summer temperatures exceed 30 °C, skip fertilizing for two or three cycles, as extreme heat causes the plant to slow down or go semi-dormant.
When October arrives and temperatures cool, growth slows compared to summer. At this stage, reduce the amount of fertilizer applied — too much fertilizer can lead to excessive leaf growth at the expense of flowers, which would be a pity.
When to Avoid Fertilizing
There are several times when you should not fertilize Phalaenopsis orchids:
Winter and while the plant is blooming, as the roots are less active and fertilizer can easily burn them, leading to root rot.
Immediately after repotting, as the roots are still recovering. Fertilizing at this time adds unnecessary stress. Regular watering and care are better to help the plant re-establish.
Monitor Plant Response
After fertilizing, observe the plant closely. If the leaves turn a richer green and the flowers become more vibrant, your fertilization is working well. If the leaves turn yellow or curl, it could mean overfertilization or fertilizer that is too strong. In that case, flush the potting medium thoroughly with clean water to wash away excess fertilizer, then stop feeding for a while to avoid further root damage.
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