It doesn’t matter whether it’s hot or not, the phalaenopsis orchids grow in the most humid climates. These long-blooming orchids look great when they’re producing flowers.
But, even these plants require fertilization. Otherwise, they won’t grow or develop well enough. As if that isn’t worse enough, different problems like root rot can occur in the plants.
Hence, it’s more than important that you get the best fertilizer for phalaenopsis orchids. Even though there are tons of products, the best one is the one that’s completely urea-free.
Also, there are tons of options that maintain a good price-quality ratio. So, we’ve worked our fortune with these products. Finally, after testing 20 of them, we’ve published this guide with the best 6.
Lastly, there are some info points that’ll help in making everything clear. So, let’s get on with the guide, shall we?
1. Miracle-Gro Water Soluble Orchid Food
At A Glance
- Size: 8-Ounce
- Type: Water-Soluble
- NPK Ratio: 30-10-10
- Application Per Gallon: 1/4 Teaspoon
Say hello to our favorite product in this list- Miracle-Gro Water Soluble Orchid Food. We haven’t crowned it the best product for no reason. There’s a lot to look at here. So, let’s just begin-
When it comes to product uniqueness, this product has the highest percentage of nitrogen on the list. Yes, a completely different NPK ratio of 30-10-10 as well. Also if that matters, the product costs the lowest in this list.
The first thing to focus on with this product is the nutrient factor. Well, it contains a high level of nitrogen. It comes with 30% of nitrogen. And, nitrogen is essential for the growth of phalaenopsis orchids.
But, it doesn’t have urea nitrogen inside of it. Now, this is important for the phalaenopsis orchids. This is because urea nitrogen can harm your orchids. But, why? Well, the plants can’t convert this urea and get damaged easily.
So, it’s better if your fertilizers don’t have them. Luckily, this one doesn’t have urea inside of it.
Instead of harming the orchids, this fertilizer provides beautiful blossoms and richer color tones all the time. Furthermore, it even works at ensuring a stronger root development.
So, the orchids live well and have a great shine when you use this product on them. Speaking of applications, the product can be applied easily.
But you’ll need to mix it with water. To be precise, mix 1/4 teaspoon of fertilizer with a water gallon. After that, your fertilizer is ready, and start watering them over your orchids. Use this on indoor plants.
For the outdoor plants, you’ll need to add 1 tablespoon of fertilizer in the gallon. It adds a bit more and the outdoor plants do need a bit more fertilizer. Also, nutrients get absorbed in the soil as well in the outdoor plants. So, they require a bit more.
But, the thing that you’ll need to know about this fertilizer is the re-application hassle. Well, don’t get us wrong, it’s easier to apply this product. Perhaps, you don’t have much time in your hands.
And, if you’re a busy individual then the re-application process might annoy you. So, in this case, some don’t prefer fertilizers that need to be applied again.
But, for the best cause, apply this fertilizer every 2 weeks as it’ll ensure better growth. For the rest period, apply every 4 weeks.
Another best thing about this product is the cost. It’s the most affordable product on this list. And, the price-quality ratio is maintained throughout this product.
2. Sun Bulb Company 8305 Orchid Fertilizer
At A Glance
- Size: 16-Ounce
- NPK Ratio: 11-35-15
- Type: Water-Soluble
- Application Per Gallon: 1 Teaspoon
Runners Up Time! Trust us, things came pretty close. In fact, we were almost gravitating between this product and the previous one. Well, when it comes to the price-quality ratio, this one provides value as well.
But, when it comes to the unique feature, this product has 35% of phosphorus! This is the highest on the list. The presence of high-level phosphorus enhances and develops the roots. It even strengthens the roots, to some extent.
Other than that, there are other important features. So, let’s take a look at them-
Starting off, the product provides a high level of phosphorus. As a result, the elements make it easier for blooming. Plus, the bloom color is enhanced as well. And it doesn’t stop there. The fertilizer even maximizes the size of the bloom.
Another great thing about the products is the ingredient mix! Also, the nutrient mix makes the orchids bloom well. It even has a long-lasting bloom. Overall, this allows the orchid to have better growth and development.
And yes, this product doesn’t have urea presence inside of it as well. This is great for the overall growth of the orchids. All in all, this will be better for the orchids as urea could harm them easily.
In the end, the fertilizer does provide a lot of benefits for the price range. And, it provides a great deal for the price. So, you might want to give this product a closer look.
3. Sun Bulb Company 8303 Orchid Fertilizer
At A Glance
- Size: 16-Ounce
- NPK Ratio: 20-14-13
- Type: Water Soluble
Presenting quite a similar product to the previous one! Yes, it’s from the brand Sun Bulb. So, back-back Sun Bulb Company products. But, there are differences in this one as well! So, let’s check it out-
When it comes to the unique feature of this product, this one contains fast-acting nitrate. And, this element ensures faster growth of the orchids in no time.
Other than that, it contains the necessary elements needed for better growth in the orchids. So, it doesn’t matter if you’re a professional or a beginner- this fertilizer won’t harm your orchids.
As it’s completely water-soluble, you’ll have an easy time mixing it with water. It even is better at applying directly to the orchids. Just mix it up with water and it’ll be ready.
Now, it does contain the elements needed in order to combat all the deficiencies. These could occur in many soilless mixes in the pots. So, it would tackle all the deficiencies and you won’t have to worry about much.
Speaking of worries, there’s no urea nitrogen in this product as well as the top two. So, your orchids won’t be harmed by the presence of urea.
You see, urea damages the orchids as the plants can’t convert them. In fact, it could even kill some varieties of orchids when applied to them. So, it’s better for the fertilizers do not to have them inside of them.
Otherwise, your phalaenopsis orchids won’t develop over time. But, you won’t need to worry as these fertilizers don’t even have urea nitrogen.
In the end, the product has plenty of nutrients that’ll tackle deficiencies. Also, it would even promote healthy plant growth all the time. Furthermore, not having the presence of urea will save your orchids from damages.
And, the best part about this plant is the price. It does come in a lower affordable price range. It still manages to provide a lot of benefits in the price.
4. rePotme Orchid Fertilizer
At A Glance
- Size: 8-Ounce
- Package Dimension: 4.02 x 3.74 x 3.46 inches
- Per Gallon Application: 3/4 teaspoon
- Best For Beginners
- NPK Ratio: 13-3-15
We’ve seen water-soluble products only till this point. So, let’s take a look at something completely different now. Yes, we’re talking about the next product on our list- rePotme Orchid Fertilizer.
Apart from being a completely different type of fertilizer, this option comes with a unique NPK ratio. Here, it has a ratio of 13-3-15. And, it’s great for ensuring a healthy growth for your Phalaenopsis orchid.
So, let’s start off with the other features of this product-
As this fertilizer has an abundance of potassium inside of it, the orchid plants will have plenty of energy. Potassium provides energy in orchid plants. So, this fertilizer ensures energy all the time.
Another thing that’s great about this product is the reverse osmosis process. Here, the fertilizer can be used with distilled or even rainwater due to the reverse osmosis process.
And, the best part about this application is that the fertilizer provides the best results with this water. So, you’ll have options open when mixing this fertilizer.
Speaking of mixing this fertilizer with water, you won’t need to mix much. To be precise, you can mix around 3/4 teaspoon of fertilizer with every water gallon. Then, the product will be ready for usage and you can water it.
Also, the 8-ounce size isn’t the largest one on the list. But, the product allows you to have around 64-ounces of liquid fertilizer ready after mixing. Honestly, that’s a lot of fertilizer to use, if you ask us.
Now, another thing is crucial for ensuring good health for the plants. And, the product does have a better NPK ratio that’ll ensure the orchid’s growth.
But, when it comes to phalaenopsis orchids, the presence of urea could be harmful. In fact, it could even kill those tropical plants if you add in urea fertilizers.
So, the urea nitrogen isn’t welcomed in the phalaenopsis orchids. But, you won’t have to worry about this product as it doesn’t contain urea. It’s completely urea-free and won’t harm your orchid’s growth.
Even though it has nitrogen present, it’s useful and will promote better growth. So, in all cases, your orchids will bloom and have better health.
So, in the end, this product is perfect if you’re starting new. Thus, give it a try as the mixing and application process is quite easier.
5. Grow More 5270 Premium Urea Free Orchid Food
At A Glance
- Size: 1.25-Pound
- Type: Water-Soluble
- NPK Ratio: 20-10-20
- Per Gallon Application: 1 teaspoon
If you’re looking for a premium option then this product is the one for you! Yes, we’re talking about the Grow More 5270 Fertilizer. Even though it’s the most expensive option on our list, there’s still a lot to know!
But, if you want to know what sets this product apart from the others, it’s definitely that NPK ratio. Yeah, we get it! Most products will have separate NPK ratios, but this one comes with a balanced percentage of nitrogen and potassium. And, that’s great for the orchid plants.
Now, let’s move on to the other features-
Most importantly, this product doesn’t have a urea presence inside of it like the previous product! And, that’s what you really want in fertilizer as urea harms your orchid plants.
Furthermore, urea tends to even kill orchids. So, it’s better you stay away from them as much as possible. You’ll be glad that this one doesn’t contain any urea nitrogen.
But, it does contain a healthy amount of nitrogen and potassium. Here, both combined promote healthy growth and sufficient energy for the orchid plants!
On top of that, the product is perfect for terrestrial orchids with an exposed root system. Here, it’ll just go in and provide all the necessary growth and development to your orchids.
Moving on, let’s talk about the application process. Well, it is water-soluble like the top two products in this list. So, you’ll get similar benefits here as well. Just mix it up and it’ll be ready to use.
And, if you’re wondering about the numbers, well, you’ll be needing 1 teaspoon per gallon. So, it’s easy to mix and even easier to apply. Apply every 14 days to get the best results!
That said, it does come with a premium price tag and it’s a bit expensive, in our eyes. But, we also believe that it’s a worthy investment as it’ll provide tons of benefits. So, gardeners if you have the money then go for it!
6. The Grow Co Orchid Plant Food
At A Glance
- Size: 5-Ounce
- NPK Ratio: 13-4-14
- Application Per 2-Inch Pot: 1/4 teaspoon
- Nutrient Stay: 6 months
Down to the last product, eh? Well, we’re glad that you’ve stuck with us, till this part! It’s been an absolute pleasure. So, have a look at one of our favorites as well.
Even though it’s down at the bottom of the list, we still loved every bit of the product. Yeah sure, it contains some things that we didn’t like. So, we nitpicked and made it our last. That said, it’s still better than most of the competition in the market.
And, the standout feature of this product is the fertilizer type. It comes in fertilizer pellets that come with a slow-release formula. This means the nutrients stay in the soil for long and you won’t have to apply them frequently!
Now, let’s take a look at what the product has to offer besides the unique standpoint-
Well, the product comes with all the micronutrients and the macronutrients you need. Sure it doesn’t have the best of the ratios compared to the last product.
But, the NPK ratio still provides healthy growth in the phalaenopsis orchids. Plus, it even works at ensuring better health development in the orchids as well.
It’s not about nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium only! Here, the product comes with the presence of sulfur, magnesium, and calcium. All of this is essential for the growth of phalaenopsis orchids. And, this product ensures all of the nutrients in here.
Speaking of nutrients, the product doesn’t have urea nitrogen in them. Well, if you’ve followed our list, you’ll know it’s a good thing. In fact, it’s great that this product doesn’t have urea. This is because it causes harm to the orchid.
So, you’ll have to stay far away from urea when it comes to orchid development.
Another great thing about this fertilizer is the slow-release formula. Here, the fertilizer slowly releases all the necessary nutrients in the soil. This is why the nutrients stay in the soil for a long.
There are products which require re-application after 2 weeks. But, that’s not the case with this product. You’ll just need to use it every 6 months. This saves you the hassle of applying.
But, if you ask us, it’s easy to apply. That said, you’ll need to follow some steps for the application. First, sprinkle the pellets on the surface. For every 2-inch pot width, use 1/4 teaspoon of fertilizer.
Next, mix the fertilizer in a potting medium. Here, the medium needs to have a depth of 1 inch! Then, water the orchid. And, that’ll be all!
How Should You Conduct the Process of Fertilizing?
As there are different types and mixes of fertilizers, you’ll need to decide the fertilization process, beforehand. Also, you’ll need to prepare and follow the instructions before starting as well.
On the other hand, you’ll need to know that orchids behave differently on their own. So, decide what factors are needed to focus on.
But, as we’re here for the phalaenopsis orchids, make sure the fertilizers are free from urea. Also, follow the balanced NPK ratio for ensuring the best growth and healthy development.
That said, potting mixes show different outcomes. These mixes show the result based on different factors like present condition.
However, most of the processes you’ll follow will have their formula mixed in water. Then, the formula will be poured into the soil. And, you can use the formula over the root as well.
With that said, you’ll need to ensure that the formula doesn’t hit the stem or leaves in any case. And, why is that? Well, if the formula hits the stem/leaves, it’ll cause burns in them.
Whereas, there are fertilizers that won’t cause burn when you apply them over the plants. Here, the mists can be sprayed easily. But, don’t provide them over the flowers as they’ll cause burns on them. Other than that, you’re safe to go.
So, that leaves you with the last bit of type- fertilizer spikes. Now, let me clear something out these fertilizers are quite effective.
This is because they have the slow-release formula that stays in the soil for a long. Added to that, the fertilizers are easier to apply as well.
Orchid Fertilizing Time: Why and How Often?
That’s correct, you’ll need to know the time of applying the fertilizers for your orchids.
While there are some slow-release fertilizers that don’t require re-application, most need to be applied again. Now, this could be a hassle for some people.
On the other hand, some people just don’t have much time to conduct the process again and again. Well, don’t get us wrong, the application process is quite easy.
After all, you just need to mix the fertilizer in water and spray it off, right? Well, things won’t be that easy.
So, let’s clear it out you’ll need to do the re-application depending on the fertilizer itself!
Some people say that you can fertilize them weekly in smaller amounts. The others suggest you take a two-week approach in large amounts.
Well, the choice is yours really! But, if you want our advice then let’s clear it out-
Orchids don’t have the ability to absorb large amounts of nutrients. As a result, they won’t be able to convert them. So, you’ll have a bad result when applying fertilizer in large amounts.
On top of that, the plants might even die when you’re using excess fertilizer too frequently! Overfeeding isn’t a great idea, right?
So, fertilize your plants in a two-week approach. And, apply the fertilizers as instructed by the manufacturers. Only then, you’ll get a great result from the orchids.
On the other hand, you can switch things up sometimes as well. So, notice if the plants respond well when you’re taking the two-week approach. Otherwise, you’ll need to change it up, too.
Best Time for Orchid Fertilization
Simple answer! You’ll just need to focus on the three periods when growing orchids. So, let’s take a look-
Dormant Period
First of all, there’s a dormant period for the orchids. Here, the start of the period occurs in the fall. And, it’ll last at the start of spring!
It’s called the dormant period because the internal process of the orchids slows down. And, on top of that, the orchids don’t bloom much and stop growing at a rapid pace.
Hence, it’s better to fertilize the orchids every other week during the dormant period. This will cause them to bloom once again.
Growth Period
Similar to the dormant period, there’s a growth period for the orchids as well. Here, the period begins in early spring and will finish in late fall. To be precise, it starts in March and will end in October.
This is the time when the orchids start to bloom and grow at a rapid pace. And, the period is quite important as the orchids have that growth this time.
So, you’ll need to provide tons of nutrients to them as they’ll need them. Here, they’ll wake from their dormant side and will start blooming again.
The time for fertilizing in this period should be once every week. However, you can stop fertilizing and have a pause in the third week.
Blooming Period
We’ve seen the two types of the period in the orchid. Also, we’ve even shown how you’ll need to fertilize them in this period. That said, do you even need to fertilize the orchids during the blooming period?
Well, if you ask us, no, you don’t really need to do any fertilizing. In the blooming period, the orchids will bloom themselves.
And, they won’t really have any growth in this period. As a result, it’s quite futile if you’re planning to do the fertilizing during this period. So, you don’t need any!
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: Is there a specific NPK ratio for the phalaenopsis orchids?
Answer: No, there isn’t any specific NPK ratio. However, phalaenopsis orchids grow well in a balanced out NPK ratio. So, try to find an equal amount of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium when looking at fertilizers.
Question: Will the phalaenopsis orchids require fertilizers regularly?
Answer: No, phalaenopsis orchids don’t require regular fertilizer application. However, they will require a weekly fertilizer application after their bloom has dropped down.
Question: Will Urea nitrogen harm the phalaenopsis orchids?
Answer: Yes, urea can harm the phalaenopsis orchids. It can even cause damage to the orchids. This is because the orchids can’t convert the urea nitrogen. As a result, they get damaged easily.
Question: Can coffee grounds help orchids?
Answer: Yes, coffee grounds act as great fertilizers for the orchids. So, you can use coffee grounds on the orchids.
Final Words
That’s it, gardeners! Hopefully, we’ve made everything clear about the best fertilizer for phalaenopsis orchids. This has been quite the wild ride.
As there is tons of information available in this guide, check the info sections. It’ll provide a clear idea about what you’re dealing with.
And, as far as the review section goes, you’ll know what product you’ll like. We’ve provided a slight comparison between all of them. So, check it out in case you’re feeling lost.
Do leave a comment down below. We’d love to talk to you! Good luck!
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Miracle grow (#1) DOES have urea.