Watering orchids with acids

Watering orchids with acids is a popular method to maintain the health of these plants. The most commonly used acids are succinic, citric, and boric acids. In this article, we will discuss in detail how to water an orchid with succinic acid, citric acid, and boric acid, as well as learn about the benefits they provide to the plant and how to use them properly.

Succinic acid for orchids: application and proportions

Watering orchids with succinic acid is one of the most effective ways to stimulate plant growth and flowering. Succinic acid is a natural biostimulant that improves metabolism, enhances the plant's resistance to stress, and promotes root system development.

How to dilute succinic acid for watering orchids?

Succinic acid is available in tablet or powder form, and it is easy to dilute for preparing a solution. You will need:

• Succinic acid tablets (500 mg) or powder.
• Water — 1 liter.

To prepare the solution, take one tablet (or 1 gram of powder) of succinic acid and dissolve it in 1 liter of warm water. Mix well to ensure the acid is completely dissolved.

How to water an orchid with succinic acid?

Watering can be done in two ways:

1. Root watering. Water the orchid in the usual way, evenly distributing the solution over the surface of the substrate. Make sure that all excess water drains out to avoid stagnation.
2. Spraying. The succinic acid solution can also be used to spray the leaves and aerial roots of the orchid. This is particularly useful for stimulating new shoot growth.

Watering orchids with succinic acid tablets is a convenient way to provide the plant with beneficial nutrients. How often to water an orchid with succinic acid? It is recommended to do this treatment no more than once a month to avoid overfeeding the plant.

Watering orchids with succinic acid after transplanting

After transplanting, orchids especially need support, as the process can be stressful for the plant. Watering orchids with succinic acid after transplanting helps to strengthen the root system and accelerate the plant's adaptation to the new substrate.

Citric acid for watering orchids

Citric acid is a simple and affordable solution that helps maintain the optimal acidity level of the substrate and improves the overall condition of orchids. Its use is particularly relevant for plants grown in conditions with hard water rich in minerals.

Benefits of Citric Acid for Orchids

1. Regulates Water Acidity:
   Citric acid lowers the pH level, making the water more suitable for orchids, which prefer a slightly acidic environment.

2. Enhances Nutrient Absorption:
   An optimal acidity level improves the roots' ability to absorb macro- and micronutrients.

3. Removes Salt Deposits:
   Regular use helps dissolve salt build-up in the substrate caused by hard water or over-fertilization.

4. Stimulates Growth:
   Normalizes the substrate's microflora, positively affecting root development and the plant's overall health.

How to Prepare a Citric Acid Solution?

1. Solution for Watering:

   • Dissolve 1–2 grams of citric acid (approximately 1/3 teaspoon) in 1 liter of water.
   • Use soft water (e.g., rainwater or filtered water) for better results.

2. Solution for Spraying:

   • Prepare a weaker solution for spraying: 0.5 grams of citric acid per 1 liter of water.

How to Use Citric Acid for Orchids?

1. Watering:

   • Water the orchid with the citric acid solution once every 2–3 weeks.
   • Ensure that water drains completely from the pot to avoid stagnant moisture.

2. Spraying:

   • Spray the leaves and aerial roots with the citric acid solution once a month to enhance nutrient absorption.

3. To Remove Salt Deposits:

   • Pour a slightly more concentrated solution (2–3 grams per 1 liter of water) over the substrate to dissolve accumulated salts.
   • Afterward, rinse the substrate with clean water.

Precautions

• Do not exceed the dosage: Excessive concentrations can damage the roots and leaves.
• Use only as needed: Citric acid is suitable for orchids growing in hard water conditions or with visible salt build-up.
• Do not mix with fertilizers: Use citric acid separately from feedings to avoid chemical reactions.

When to Use Citric Acid?

• When using hard water: To reduce the level of minerals and deposits in the substrate.
• After repotting: To prevent salt accumulation in the new substrate.
• If root condition deteriorates: When roots appear dry or there are visible white salt deposits on the substrate.

Boric acid for watering orchids

Boric acid is a valuable microelement for orchids that promotes their growth, flowering, and overall health. It is an affordable and effective way to meet the boron needs of orchids—a trace element essential for metabolic processes, root system development, and flower formation.

Benefits of Boric Acid for Orchids

1. Stimulates Growth:
   Boron promotes active cell division, supporting the growth of leaves, stems, and roots.

2. Enhances Flowering:
   Regular use improves flower quality and encourages abundant blooming.

3. Improves Nutrient Absorption:
   Boron aids in the efficient uptake of essential nutrients like calcium and potassium.

4. Strengthens the Root System:
   Boric acid ensures the development of healthy and strong roots, which is particularly important after repotting.

5. Boosts Plant Immunity:
   Orchids treated with boric acid become more resistant to stress, diseases, and unfavorable conditions.

How to Prepare a Boric Acid Solution?

1. Concentration for Watering:

   • Dissolve 1 gram of boric acid in 1 liter of water.
   • For better solubility, use warm water initially, then allow the solution to cool to room temperature.

2. Concentration for Spraying:

   • Use a weaker solution for spraying: 0.5 grams of boric acid per 1 liter of water.

How to Use Boric Acid for Orchids?

1. Watering:

   • Water orchids with the boric acid solution once every 3–4 weeks during active growth.
   • Avoid getting the solution on the flowers to prevent damage.

2. Spraying:

   • Use the solution to spray the leaves and roots, which facilitates faster boron absorption.

3. For Repotting:

   • During repotting, soak the orchid roots in the boric acid solution for 15–20 minutes to stimulate root development.

Precautions

• Follow the dosage: Excess boron can cause leaf burns and slow down plant growth.
• Avoid frequent use: Boric acid should be applied no more than once a month.
• Store safely: Keep boric acid out of reach of children and pets.

When to Use Boric Acid?

• During active growth: To speed up the development of leaves, stems, and roots.
• Before flowering: To stimulate bud formation and more abundant blooming.
• After repotting: To strengthen roots and help the plant adapt.

General recommendations for watering orchids with acids

1. Use acids in moderate amounts. Excess acid can lead to root burns and deteriorate the plant's condition, so it is important to strictly follow the dosage recommendations.
2. Alternate acids and fertilizers. Succinic, citric, and boric acids are not complete fertilizers, so for comprehensive orchid nutrition, use specialized fertilizers, alternating them with acid watering.
3. Do not water with acids too often. How often can you water an orchid with succinic acid? No more than once a month to avoid overfeeding the plant and causing an imbalance in the substrate.

Conclusion

Watering orchids with acids is an effective way to maintain plant health and stimulate growth and flowering. Succinic acid helps strengthen the root system and improve metabolism, citric acid regulates ph levels, and boric acid replenishes boron deficiency. With proper use of these treatments, your orchids will delight you with their beautiful and healthy flowers for a long time.