Fertilizing Orchids and Money Trees: Less Is More

Fertilizing Orchids and Money Trees: Less Is More

A reader has two baby Phalaenopsis orchids and a small Money Tree (Pachira aquatica). Orchid advice: fertilize every 2 weeks with 20-10-10 (growing) or 6-30-30 (dormant), keyed to daylight saving time. Question: Can the same fertilizers be used on the Money Tree?

Fertilizer Reality Check

Indoor plants use nutrients in tiny amounts. Over-fertilizing damages roots. Most houseplants thrive with little to no fertilizer.

Orchids (Phalaenopsis)

• No true dormancy. Use 20-10-10 at half strength every other week or quarter strength every watering.
• Before blooming, switch to higher phosphorus (e.g., 6-30-30) for a few months.

Money Tree

• Fertilize at half strength with 20-10-10 no more than once a month.
• Only when healthy and growing vigorously.
• Never after repotting.

What Matters More

Proper light and watering are far more important than fertilizer.

For detailed guides on orchid, money tree, and fertilizer use, email wcreed@HorticulturalHelp.com.