Many gardening enthusiasts have claimed that using rice water on orchids can help them grow better, but not everyone is convinced by the unusual home remedy
Orchids, with their wild, delicate, and exotic charm, are surprisingly low-maintenance as houseplants, particularly the popular phalaenopsis, also known as moth orchids, which boast flowers on arching stems resembling a flutter of moths in flight. Yet, getting these indoor beauties to re-bloom can be a challenge, as they typically flower just once annually.
Amid the plethora of commercial orchid fertilisers, homemade solutions have sparked interest among green-fingered buffs, with rice water emerging as a hot topic, reports the Express. Intrigued by its potential benefits, Mariaan Oden queried: “I have read about rice water for orchids. Is it really good for them?”
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The response from fellow enthusiasts was overwhelmingly positive. Sanele Mageo confirmed: “Yes, it works. I just started using it and my house orchids love it. And I have 15 in total.”
Arpita Ghosh endorsed the practice, adding: “Water after washing rice is not only good for orchids but you can use it for other plants too. I have seen my mom always save that water for plants.”
Annemie Dingenen shared her long-term success story: “Using rice water for years now. My orchids are big, solid, and flowering. Lots of healthy roots. Even recovered my sister-in-law’s orchids this way. I can only recommend it.”
Julie Claire Donn remarked: “I use the water I’ve washed rice in, my orchids haven’t complained. Far from it, flourishing with huge flowers.”
Sofia Garcia Del Blanco shared her experience by stating: “My mother used to water her plants with rice wash and the three orchids bloomed effortlessly.”
Yet, some gardening aficionados expressed opposition to this method, with Tanya Hardy weighing in: “Just my opinion, but food items should stay in your kitchen and off your orchids. This is a recipe to invite unwanted rot and pests.”
TF Biggs offered a word of warning, advising: “All of these home remedies are not worth risking the longevity and health of your plants. They attract pests.”