We've already broken the myth that you should fertilize orchids with coffee grounds. But what about eggshells? Can you use them when caring for popular houseplants and what should you pay attention to? In this article we explain the benefits of eggshells for orchids and how to use them correctly.
What are the benefits of eggshells for orchids?
Eggshells are rich in calcium, which can prevent root rot in orchids to some extent. An orchid that has higher calcium content is less susceptible to the negative effects of root rot. But be careful: no amount of calcium can have the effects of oneOverwatering the plantundo and the calcium itself is not a preventative against rot.
When in fine powder form, the water absorbs the calcium from the top of the pot and brings it into the substrate. In the orchid substrate, the calcium reacts with the excess salt and reduces the amount of sodium. This is particularly advantageous in the event of over-fertilization.
Eggshells can provide these nutrients to your orchid
Eggshells consist of almost 94% calcium carbonate, which is mainly pure calcium. When ground into a fine powder and sprinkled over the substrate, eggshells also provide numerous trace elements in smaller amounts: copper, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium and zinc. All of these elements can promote the growth of your orchid and are usually not included in commercial fertilizer. (Most store-bought orchid fertilizers typically have three ingredients in varying ratios - nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, but no calcium.)
But:Eggshells cannot replace commercial orchid fertilizer. However, they are well suited to supplementing the elements that are not contained in NPK fertilizer.
What are the signs of calcium deficiency in orchids?
Because of the way calcium is absorbed in the plant, calcium deficiency shows up first in the youngest leaves. You can tell your orchid needs more calcium if the leaf tips become deformed.
In addition, pseudobulbs, leaves and stems are no longer as plump and lush because growth is inhibited by the lack of calcium. The calcium deficiency in orchids leads to smaller plants and inhibits their full growth. If you take a look at the roots, you will still see brown and black roots, a clear sign of future (if not already present) root rot.
Once the calcium has settled in the cell wall, it strengthens it and makes it more resilient and stronger. This results in stronger leaves and, in the long run, a larger, fuller and more vibrant orchid.
Fertilizing orchids with eggshells: This is how it works
Well, if you already know that orchids will benefit from the nutrients contained in eggshells, we need to explain in more detail how you can make this natural fertilizer yourself. The possibilities are two:
- Grind eggshells into powder (use 1-2 times per year):Collect your eggshells (at least from 10 eggs) and clean them inside and out with warm water to make sure there is no white or yellow left. Then lay them out on a kitchen towel overnight or until completely dry. Once the eggshells are dry, place them in a food processor, blender, or coffee grinder and grind until they have the consistency of a grainy, somewhat coarse powder. To fertilize your orchid, mix a few tablespoons of eggshell powder into the substrate at the top of the pot. Do this immediately before watering as this will encourage fertilizer absorption.
- Make liquid eggshell fertilizer (apply once per month or every other month): Boil 12 to 24 eggshells in water for one hour. Let the shells rest in this water overnight. The next morning, take out the eggshells and use the water to water or mist your orchids. This is also an excellent way to remove the chlorine from the water as it evaporates when boiled.
Be sure to avoid an overdose
Eggshells have been proven to be beneficial for your orchid when used in sparing quantities. Don't use too much of it or the calcium will become harmful and even toxic.
In larger amounts, calcium will hinder the absorption of other nutrients by the plant. The excess calcium competes with the other nutrients and wins every time. The orchid will absorb not less phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, boron, copper, iron or zinc, but none at all.
If there is an excess, calcium takes over, even if these substances are present in the orchid soil. In other words, instead of using the crushed eggshells every other month, use them once or twice a year.
If you choose to use the water boiled with eggshells, you can do it once a month or every other month.
In summary about eggshells and orchids
A homemade egg shell fertilizer benefits your orchid by strengthening the orchid's cell walls, making it more resilient and less susceptible to external influences such as root rot. The calcium from eggshells also reduces salt formation and prevents chlorosis. The cells become more stable and stronger, and in the long term the orchid will grow larger and healthier.
Also interesting:Why are coffee grounds not a good orchid fertilizer?
