When Should I Fertilize My Orchids Once They Bloom?

Fertilizing orchids is crucial during the growing season, typically from spring to fall. Over-fertilization can lead to dry leaf tips and burned root tips, while unfertilized orchids are smaller, with fewer flowers, and less vigorous growth. To correctly fertilize, start in early spring when new growth is noticed. Fertilize weekly during growth and every other week when dormant.

Timing is essential when it comes to orchid care, and a 20-20-20 NPK blend should be used “weekly, weakly” at a diluted solution. Proper fertilization, light, temperature, and humidity promote growth and blooming throughout the orchid’s lifecycle. Choosing the right orchid fertilizer is essential, and it is important to choose the right all-purpose liquid, granular, or urea-free fertilizer.

Fertilizing orchids during periods of active growth, such as during the warmer summer months and rainy season, is recommended. Water your orchids with pure water before fertilizing them, and avoid fertilizing every fourth watering. The best time to fertilize orchids is during their active growing phase, usually during spring. Orchids with dormancy, like dendrobium, do not fertilize.

Fertilizing Phalaenopsis orchids once every other week or at least once a month after its blooms have dropped is recommended. To promote flowers, use a higher phosphorous fertilizer such as 3-12-6. As a general rule, fertilize orchids every 2 weeks during peak growth (spring and summer) and once a month during dormancy (fall and winter). During the dormant period after blooming and the growth period leading up to blooming, fertilize your orchid about once every other week.