The Harm of Nitrogen Fertilizer to Phalaenopsis and Precautions for Using Urea

Friends who love growing flowers and plants certainly all hope their plants will look better and better the more they are grown, and when they bloom, they will burst the pot with flowers. However, sometimes in plant care, some good intentions may instead turn into poison, and this is especially true for the relatively delicate Phalaenopsis (moth orchid). It originally grows in tropical rainforests, and both its leaves and root system are relatively sensitive. If at this time the fertilizer you use when fertilizing is urea fertilizer, it may be a major taboo.

As is well known, urea fertilizer is rich in nitrogen, and it can promote plant growth, so it is also one of the fertilizers commonly used by flower growers. However, for Phalaenopsis, urea is actually a double-edged sword. Although it can promote its growth, if used excessively, it will cause damage to the leaves and fine roots of the Phalaenopsis, just like administering poison to the Phalaenopsis.

Generally speaking, using urea may cause damage to the root system of Phalaenopsis, yellowing of leaves, stunted growth, and so on. The reason is that urea will decompose in the soil to release ammonia gas. If the ammonia concentration is not properly controlled, it will enter its stem system, and afterward corrosion will occur, causing the stem system to rot and turn black directly. If used excessively, it will cause its leaves to lose the balance of absorbing water and nutrients, resulting in conditions such as leaves becoming yellow, dull, and lusterless. In severe cases, it will directly cause the plant to stop growing, and afterward the Phalaenopsis will simply die.

So, how can we avoid urea becoming poison to Phalaenopsis in daily care? First, pay attention to controlling the dosage. When using urea fertilizer, you must read the instructions carefully to avoid excessive use. Generally speaking, adjust the amount of fertilization according to the growth condition of the Phalaenopsis and the air permeability of the soil. Second, it should be diluted before use. When adding it, in order to reduce harm to the Phalaenopsis, it is best to mix it with water at a ratio of 1 to 3 for irrigation. Finally, in terms of care, you can choose to use it in an appropriate amount during the growth period of the Phalaenopsis, while in the cold winter, when the plant enters dormancy, reduce the frequency of fertilization or even stop fertilizing.