Nurturing orchids: Home-made nutrients for year-round blooms

Orchids are among the most beautiful potted plants found in Canadian homes. Their care, while not overly complicated, can be simplified with home-made nutrients. Natural care solutions are not only cheaper than store-bought fertilizers but also more environmentally friendly.

Orchids require not just regular watering and a suitably sunny location, but also good nourishment. That's why it's useful to know about a home-made nutrient that provides everything they need. It is both inexpensive and simple.

To create the nutrient, you only need a litre of boiled water and a teaspoon of Epsom salt. After mixing these ingredients, you'll have a nutrient with which the plant should be watered once a week. This will encourage abundant blooming. Epsom salt contains magnesium sulfate, which aids in the production of chlorophyll and boosts the plant's immunity.

Red onion, a common kitchen staple, can also benefit orchids. It's rich in calcium, magnesium, potassium, and antioxidants. To prepare this nutrient, place a large onion in a container and cover it with hot water, sealing it tightly. Allow the mixture to stand in a cool, shaded place for three days, then strain the liquid through gauze. Watering orchids with this solution once a week will quickly show results - the leaves will become lush and fleshy.

Banana peels are also useful for orchid care. Rich in phosphorus, potassium, and calcium, these peels can be soaked in water and set aside in a dark place. After a few days, the resulting liquid will be an excellent fertilizer, not just for orchids but also for other flowers. Watering orchids with this mixture once a week will strengthen them and ensure a healthy appearance.