Avoid this common mistake: Homemade fertilizer can harm orchids

Orchids grace many American homes. A certain mistake in their fertilization can result in the cessation of blooming and deteriorating stalks. Not every homemade fertilizer is suitable for supporting our orchids, and some can bring the opposite of the intended results.

Caring for an orchid may seem complicated, but by following a few basic principles, you can enjoy their beauty for longer. With the right practices, orchids can adorn our homes for many years.

What should you do when your orchid suddenly starts to wilt and no buds appear on its stems? It is very likely that this is happening because of... a popular homemade fertilizer.

Orchids are plants that grow on tree bark in their natural environment. Therefore, providing them with the right substrate at home is crucial. A common mistake is using regular soil for potted flowers. This type of substrate retains too much water, which can lead to root rot.

It's worth investing in a special orchid substrate that is light and permeable. A good choice is a mix of tree bark, coconut fiber, perlite, and charcoal. Ensuring proper air circulation and humidity is key to orchid health.

On various internet forums, you may find the "golden advice" to water orchids with a fertilizer made from diluted beer occasionally. Unfortunately, the effects of such a procedure can be disastrous.

It's hard not to notice that beer contains quite a bit of alcohol, which will not be to the liking of delicate and sensitive plants. Watering with beer can, at best, dry out their stems and, at worst, permanently damage them.

Experts from the portal mentioned emphasize that beer fertilizer can dry stems, preventing orchids from blooming. Although beer contains nutrients like yeast, hops, and barley malt, orchids do not favor this type of fertilizer.