TheNaturePlanet

Phalaenopsis orchids have an elegant posture and gorgeous flower colors. To make them grow vigorously and bloom smoothly, precise fertilization is crucial. Here, we will explain the key points of fertilization for phalaenopsis orchids at different stages.

**Seedling Stage**:
To lay a solid foundation during the seedling stage, sufficient nutrients are required. At this stage, nitrogen and potassium fertilizers are mainly used, and compound fertilizers can also be applied. In the early stage, apply a thin solution of nitrogen and potassium fertilizers, diluted 3000 - 4000 times. Since the root system of phalaenopsis orchids has weak absorption ability, it is advisable to water with clear water twice and apply fertilizer once to prevent "root burning".

**Growth Stage**:
During the growth stage, the demand for nutrients of phalaenopsis orchids increases and becomes more diverse. Nitrogen fertilizer remains the main source of nutrients. Fertilizers such as urea and cake fertilizer are excellent choices for nitrogen fertilizers. At the same time, phosphorus and potassium fertilizers as well as calcium fertilizers should be applied appropriately. For phosphorus and potassium fertilizers, potassium dihydrogen phosphate can be selected and applied after being diluted 3000 times. During this period, the fertilization concentration of nitrogen and potassium fertilizers can be increased appropriately, diluted to 2000 times, and applied at a frequency of watering with clear water three times and applying fertilizer once, which helps the phalaenopsis orchids to have broad leaves and strong stems.

**Flower Spike Emergence Stage**:
The emergence of flower spikes is a crucial stage. It takes about three months from the emergence of the flower stalk to the swelling of the flower buds. At this time, phosphorus and potassium fertilizers and balanced fertilizers should be used alternately, and calcium fertilizers should be applied appropriately. Dilute the phosphorus and potassium fertilizers 2000 - 3000 times and apply fertilizer once every three times of watering with clear water; apply a solution of chelated calcium diluted 3000 times once. If there are 2 - 3 flower buds, apply phosphorus and potassium fertilizers until the first flower blooms; if there are more than 5 flower buds, stop fertilizing when half of the flowers have bloomed.

**Post-flowering Stage**:
After the flowers wither, phalaenopsis orchids are greatly weakened and need to replenish nutrients in a timely manner to regain their strength. At this time, balanced fertilizers and nitrogen fertilizers should be applied. A small amount of controlled-release fertilizer can be sprinkled on the surface of the planting medium to continuously provide nutrients for the plants. In addition, pay attention to the temperature when fertilizing. The most suitable temperature is between 15°C and 30°C. Especially in winter, it is advisable to fertilize at noon, and the water temperature should be close to the room temperature to prevent the root system from being frostbitten. Finally, don't forget to trim the withered flowers. Cut them off 2 - 3 cm above the root of the flower stalk to reduce nutrient consumption and prepare for the next blooming.

In conclusion, when fertilizing, follow the principle of "applying thin fertilizers frequently" to avoid damaging the roots with concentrated fertilizers. At the same time, combine it with maintenance conditions such as watering, light, and temperature, so that phalaenopsis orchids can thrive.