Homemade Orchid Fertilizer Recipes

Nitrogen

• The key to remember when making homemade fertilizers for orchids is that orchids need a fertilizer that is higher in nitrogen than ordinary plants. This is because orchids are not potted in soil. An orchid's potting medium usually consists of tree bark. The bark is home to nitrogen-loving bacteria that usually consume most of the nitrogen in fertilizers, leaving very little for the orchid itself.

Tea

• Used tea bags, which are high in nitrogen, are especially good for orchids. Compared to commercial fertilizers, tea bags contain organic matter that is nontoxic and does not smell bad. To use the tea bag, open it and empty the contents into the orchid pot. Apply tea once monthly in the spring and summer months.

Milk or Buttermilk

• Both milk and buttermilk are animal products that are high in nitrogen because of their protein content. Additionally, because most people use them in their homes, it is a product that is easy to find and use. To use milk as a fertilizer, take an empty milk carton, fill it with water and swish it around. The dregs of the milk will be transferred to the water. You can then water your orchids with the milky water.