This pantry staple can help your orchids bloom longer

Unlike many houseplants, orchids require specific nutrients to stay healthy.

Orchids need more than just light and water

In addition to nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, they need magnesium, a mineral that helps produce energy and sustain vigorous flowering.

Without it, blooms may fade quickly, and roots can weaken.

The secret is in your rice pot

According to Mark Curran, founder of Heavenly Orchids, the secret to stronger orchids may already be in your kitchen: rice water.

“It’s a simple, gentle fertilizer that gives orchids the nutrients they need naturally,” Curran said, per The Mirror.

Rice water — the starchy liquid left after soaking or cooking rice — contains small amounts of minerals and carbohydrates that orchids can easily absorb.

Why rice water works so well

Rice water provides trace nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and magnesium, which are essential for growth and flowering.

The natural starches in rice water also feed beneficial microorganisms in the potting medium, improving nutrient absorption and root health.

Best used during flowering

Curran recommends using rice water most actively when orchids are in bloom.

“Regular use during the flowering phase can lead to larger, more colorful blooms without synthetic fertilizers,” he explained.

This makes rice water a perfect eco-friendly option for those who want to avoid chemical plant food.

How to make rice water at home

You can make rice water easily with uncooked or cooked rice:

1. Place a handful of uncooked rice in a bowl of water and let it soak for about 30 minutes.
2. Strain the water through a sieve.
3. Pour the liquid into a clean jar or bottle and let it ferment for about one week in a cool, dark place.

Alternatively, you can save the water used to cook rice, cool it, and ferment it the same way.

Store it properly

Do not seal the container tightly — gases form during fermentation.

Cover it with a clean cloth or rest the lid loosely to let air escape. Keep the jar out of direct sunlight to prevent spoilage or strong odors.

How to use rice water on orchids

After one week of fermentation:

• Dilute the rice water with an equal amount of fresh water (1:1).
• Pour into a spray bottle and lightly mist the leaves and root area.
• Apply every two weeks during the growing season, and once a month during dormancy.

Avoid spraying the crown to prevent rot, and stop using it if leaves develop spots or the solution smells sour.

The bottom line

Rice water is a budget-friendly, natural fertilizer that supports orchids’ long-term health and enhances blooming.

With just a bit of kitchen waste and patience, you can help your orchids grow stronger, bloom brighter.

This article is made and published by Camilla Jessen, which may have used AI in the preparation