Fertilising your orchids through growth phases

Orchids are known for their beauty and grace, but they require precise care to flourish. Liqua Nutrients Orchid Grow 12-2-8 and Orchid Bloom 10-3-14 are specifically designed to cater to the unique needs of orchids during their vegetative (growth) and reproductive (flowering) phases. With over 30 years of research backing their formulation, these products ensure your orchids thrive throughout the year.

 

The Two Phases of Orchid Care

Orchids have two primary growth phases, each requiring specific nutrients and care.

Vegetative Phase (Growth)

During this stage, orchids develop roots, leaves, and pseudobulbs. Using a fertiliser with higher levels of Nitrogen is required during this vegetative phase. Nitrogen drives growth and is used to produce chlorophyll and proteins, which serve as the building blocks for plant cells and enzymes, etc.

Using Orchid Grow 12-2-8, which has a high nitrogen content, is ideal for the orchid vegetative phase and prepares the plant for the flowering phase.

In New Zealand, this phase generally occurs from around August through to November.

PS: Orchid Grow can also be used to promote the growth of orchid seedlings.

Reproductive Phase (Flowering)

The focus shifts to reproduction during this phase, as orchids prepare to and produce their stunning blooms. To support this transition, use a fertiliser with lower nitrogen and higher phosphorus and potassium levels:

• Phosphorus stimulates root growth and signals plants to transition from the growth phase to the reproductive phase.
• Potassium promotes strong stems, enhances water movement, and ensures vibrant, long-lasting flowers.

Orchid Bloom 10-3-14 is enriched with these elements to deliver the nutrients your orchid needs for flower development.

The Importance of a Rest Phase

In the above image, there is a 4 to 6 week rest period between the growth and flowering phases. The purpose of this phase is to ensure healthy development and optimal flowering. Here's why this break is essential:

1. Depletes Excess Nitrogen: During the growth phase, orchids are fed a nitrogen-rich fertiliser to support root, leaf, and pseudobulb development. However, excess nitrogen can interfere with flower bud formation, leading to reduced or poor-quality blooms. The rest period allows the plant to metabolize and use up residual nitrogen, creating a more favourable internal nutrient balance for flowering.
2. Encourages the Transition to Flower Bud Formation: Orchids naturally shift their energy from vegetative growth to reproduction (flowering). The rest period signals this transition by limiting nutrient input, helping the plant redirect its focus toward forming flower buds instead of continuing vegetative growth.
3. Mimics Natural Growing Conditions: In nature, orchids often experience a seasonal rest period when nutrient availability and environmental factors change. Replicating this rest period in cultivation helps align with the plant’s biological rhythms, ensuring healthier and more predictable blooming cycles.
4. Prepares the Plant for Optimal Blooming: This pause allows the plant to shift its energy reserves, prepare its reproductive structures, and recover from the vigorous growth phase. The result is a stronger, healthier orchid capable of producing vibrant and long-lasting flowers during the flowering phase.

 

Application Tips

New Growth Phase (Aug – Nov)

• Mix 15 ml of Liqua Nutrients Orchid Grow solution with 10 litres of water (or 1.5 ml/litre).
• Apply every second watering or at least once weekly.
• Encourage growth immediately after removing blooms.

Flower Bud Formation (Dec)

• Stop fertilising entirely to deplete nitrogen reserves.
• Maintain a 10–12°C temperature differential between day and night. If needed, water plants at night to achieve this.

Flowering Phase (Jan – Jul)

• Resume fertilising with Liqua Nutrients Orchid Bloom to support flower development.
• Mix 15 ml of Liqua Nutrients Orchid Bloom solution with 10 litres of water (or 1.5 ml/litre).
• Water less frequently as temperatures cool.

 

Dilution and Frequency Recommendations

• Higher Nitrogen Needs: 2 ml/litre (EC ~ 1.0 mS/cm or CF 10).
• Higher Nitrogen Needs: 1.5 ml/litre (EC ~ 0.8 mS/cm or CF 8).
• Lower Nitrogen Needs: 1 ml/litre (EC ~ 0.6 mS/cm or CF 6).

For best results, apply weekly. If fertilising twice a week, halve the concentration for each application.

Essential Care Practices for Thriving Orchids

Watering

• Adjust frequency based on the season: more often in summer, less in winter.
• Avoid overwatering. Ensure the potting mix is moist but not soggy, and never let plants sit in water.

Potting Mix

• Use a free-draining mix and remove all dust to prevent compaction and ensure root health.

Lighting and Temperature

• Keep orchids in a brightly lit, frost-free location with good air circulation. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.

Supplementary Feeding

• Use a quality seaweed product once a month as a root drench to enhance overall plant health & growth. 
• Seaweed supplies many of the nutrients missing from mineral fertilisers.
• Seaweeds contain growth promoting compounds that encourage root, shoot and flower development.

 

An easier method.

The above might require too much effort for you to follow. The majority of the home orchid growers I know use Liqua Nutrients Orchid Bloom all year round and grow amazing plants. It has a good balance of nutrients to support both leaf and flower development.

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Providing the right fertilisation throughout the different growth phases of your orchids is crucial for their health and vibrant blooms. With the right care, including proper watering, lighting, and supplementary feeding, your orchids can thrive year-round and reward you with stunning blooms.