March 18th, 2010
Our local orchid nursery has the most gorgeous, healthy plants I've seen anywhere, and they told me their secret is to use a small amount of laundry detergent when watering, because the phosphates in it encourage vigorous, healthy growth. They said it gives the blooms more color, the leaves are greener, and the plant grows more roots. So I was just wondering if anyone knows which brands are safe? Apparently it has to be something with phosphates...Does not sound right to me. The amount of phosphate in laundry detergent is tiny. Ever since the 1970's the amount has been reduced because it was causing algae bloom in waterways.
Use a commercial fertilizer. There are formulations to promote blooming that have higher phosphorous. Look at the numbers on the package. The middle number iis the Phosphorous. Why take chances? Unless you're a commercial grower, stick with fertilizers formulated for orchids. Buy them at garden centers. They also will contain the other nutrients orchids need. Phosphates alone will not product a healthy plant.#If you have any other info about this subject , Please add it free.# |
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