fertilizer questions

[clare]

I'm pretty confused about fertilizers. I have 2 oncidiums and 1 dendrobium, currently all in beautiful bloom. Should I be using a balanced fertilizer (20-20-20) or one with a high middle number? When they are done blooming, should I use a high nitrogen fert, or balanced? I understand that I should dilute the normal amount by 1/2 and should flush with plain water once a month, but want to know which to use. Also, how do you know when to repot? I can't really see the roots on these guys. Should I just yank 'em out to check? I'm in Fairbanks, Alaska and my orchids are in a south window. Thanks for any advice!

[Hummer344]

Welcome to the forum. You have asked the eternal unanswered question. Everyone has an opinion. In the spring I use a growth formula for two months(apr & May). High Nitrogen. Then its balanced formula the rest of the time. To confusing to figure out which plants need what and when. Others will have advise. You will have to expierment with your plants and see what works best.

[cym 1972]

i myself use worm liquid on my cymbidium and dendrobium orchids no problem with feeding them i use rain water

[Cynthia, Prescott, AZ]

Make life simple, just use a balanced fertilizer all the time, except that Dens should not get any nitrogen in winter, so I don't fertilize at all in winter as it is too difficult to feed some and not others. Most orchids are slow growing and have very low needs for fertilizer. At times I have gone years with almost no fertilizing, as others have also noted they have done.

[clare]

Thanks to everyone for the advice! I'm afraid my addiction is growing--I'm off to purchase a phal this afternoon. Help! I can't stop!

[articuno75]

Do be sure to post pics of your new purchase

Sorry, but coming from an orchid addict, the more the better!