Second Method: Lemon Water Fertilizer for Root Health
In addition to cleaning the leaves, using lemon-infused water as a natural fertilizer helps strengthen the orchid’s roots and promotes flower production. To prepare this fertilizer:
Slice a lemon into thin pieces.
Place the slices in 1 liter of water.
Let the mixture sit for 2 hours to allow the water to absorb the lemon’s nutrients.
Remove the lemon slices and use the water to nourish your orchids.
Since lemon water contains high levels of vitamin C and antioxidants, it helps boost the plant’s immunity. For best results, pour about five tablespoons of this solution into each orchid pot once a month.
Third Method: Controlling Pests Like Thrips and Mealybugs
If you notice sticky droplets forming on orchid leaves, along with rapid leaf softening and halted growth, check the undersides of the leaves. This often indicates an infestation of thrips, which are tiny insects that hinder the plant’s development. Thrips and other pests, such as mealybugs and scale insects, create sticky residues and cause damage to the leaves and flowers.
To eliminate these pests effectively, prepare a simple spray solution:
200 ml of water
20 drops of moisture oil
Mix the solution well and pour it into a spray bottle. Spray the mixture thoroughly on both the upper and lower surfaces of the orchid leaves. It is crucial to repeat this process twice a week until the infestation disappears. Additionally, spray the mixture on the top layer of soil and the stems of the orchid (avoiding the flowers) to ensure comprehensive protection.
If water collects in the leaves’ crevices, remove it immediately. Standing water encourages fungal infections, which can further harm the plant. Using a small cotton pad to absorb excess moisture can help prevent fungal diseases.
Additional Tips for Orchid Health
