Orchids............magnesium def in Phals

[@phillipabond260]

Hi Rick, your research and observations, having more time for the love of your plants, you have become an amazing TEACHER that we all can understand, everyone of us are learning how vital it is to actually see what our plants are telling us, THANKYOU for your guidence and allowing us all to be your students.

[@rickl.orchids]

...touches my heart......thank you .....very kind.

[@plips71755]

So sorry to hear your Parkinson’s issues You have great looking plants and you sound just fine to me. Thank you so much for sharing with us.

[@kimberland8910]

Oh Mr.Rick it breaks my heart to hear of your health issues, I pray that you can continue to be able to do what you love to do. I will definitely keep you and your family in my prayers. You are just a fountain of information and I learn so much from you, I am so blessed to have found your channel. Thank you so much for posting your videos. I only have two phals, lol but I love them and want to enlarge my collection but, I am new to the orchid growing and there's no much information that is not accurate and that cost alot if money, I am thankful for you and your no nonsense approach to growing. Much love from Noryh Florida!!

[@rickl.orchids]

…...very kind thank you...….

[@claudiastage5921]

You're handling your illness well, never a hint of weakness, love is with you!

[@mrzredbadger7848]

Rick you always sound great to me my Friend...You have taught so much ... How not to fear and Trust myself...My Plants are looking better and better...and I just Dx's my plants...Thank you ...AGAIN!... any way we all are pulling for ya... Blessings and keep growing On!

[@rickl.orchids]

.....we are both fans of each other..........thank you

[@mowisocram667]

Your voice is ok Rick, you talk very nice and clear, no worries and be happy :) the best teacher. Thanks for sharing and for your help, you are great.

[@miss30427]

Rick L., Oh, yeah, we can see the mottling very clearly. Thank you for the demonstration and exploration of the leaves. Giving the hands-on demos always help me absorb the information and understand your points so much better. God bless "Camera Girl!" Thank you. Date: June 5, 2018

[@fishyplantman4982]

Your so close to how I am doing things. Your plants don't look like they could be doing any better. But I think you will agree when I say. The funniest part of gardening is always trying to get the plant to do better. Love how you spot problems so quickly and fix it almost before the plant knows something is wrong.

[@rickl.orchids]

.....we could sit and talk for hours Victor.....Diagnosing is one of those things that is hard for everyone.......myself included, but more imprint than anything else.....

[@Zapton5]

+Rick I'd love that maybe over a game of chess. If only we was Neighbors or at least lived in the same county.

[@PIAMUSA]

This video is so helpful...I do have a couple orchids that have the same symptoms I will try giving them epson salt...it seems that the leaves are weaker too...but looking at the results on your phals with healthy color phals and seems the leaves are super firm...thnx for the tips and showing the difference ....I started using that same cal-imag product....and boy my phals all turned dark green. That was just awesome idea...

[@TinRoofVintage]

Absolutely amazing how a mineral addition make such a difference! Thank you!

[@deannknox9499]

Great video, not sure how I missed it before. Using the flashlight to show the leaf mottling was very helpful! Thank yet again Rick :D

[@gerripalmer6206]

Thank you for your knowledge, your videos are so informative Thank You Thank You...... you are always in my prayers

[@Banana04218]

Rick I pray for your health and well being. I struggle with a chronic illness and your videos do so much for my spirit,I can't begin to explain the goodness you do for the world of plants and the goodness you do for your subscribers. I'm like halfway into this video, now I have to take care of something but your plants, information, green thumb, chat, positivity and endurance inspire me along the days. Hugs.

[@rickl.orchids]

your too kind, I keep many in my thought and prayers.....will add you as well.......have a wonderful day......hugs from Alabama..

[@Banana04218]

Rick L 🌸🌱🌿🌵

[@MiracleOrchids1]

Awesome video! Very useful and precious information! Feel better, Rick!

[@janefromtennessee]

You sound better than those orchid women. I'm 76 and I understand you very well. You're great! Thank you.

[@rickl.orchids]

lol..........your too kind Jane.....thank you

[@evarene07]

That’s a bit rude Jane.

[@janefromtennessee]

@@evarene07 I have an honest opinion. I am not rude but honest.

[@janefromtennessee]

@@rickl.orchids thank you very much.

[@pinkbeautytwinkle]

What orchid women 🤔?

[@lonniebrawer6343]

Wow! The color change is so significant from this food! Also the leaf luster is amazing, compared to the dull, matte green leaf of the magnesium deficient phal! Thanks so much for so many examples and such clear and informative explanations. The mottling definitely showed on the camera!

[@lookthrumyeyes]

Thanks for sharing your knowhow with us, Rick. helped me a lot

[@miss30427]

Rick L., your close-ups are excellent demonstrating the magnesium deficiency (timeline @11:49). This is another top-shelf lesson from you that I needed. Please keep sharing the visuals of the items you use for novices like me. Seeing a brief glimpse of the bag of magnesium sulfate you use is a great help. For me, the most important information is showing and comparing/contrasting the benefits you've experienced using CALi-MAGic (@17:36). I send you a four-minute round of applause for this. You nailed that perusasive tack right into the counter with that demonstration. I look forward to more enlightening lessons on growing orchids from you. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Date: December 17, 2017

[@rickl.orchids]

lol..........blushing here.......too kind thank you

[@miss30427]

Hello, Rick L. a.k.a. thanks to you, "Mr Blushing," I'm ordering CALi-MAGic now. Your emphasis on using hydroponics growing orchids makes sense to me. Erase any thoughts that your explanations are too involved; the more you explain the chemical science, the more I understand. Thank you for every video. Date: December 19, 2017

[@ofhismercy109]

Wow, what a difference in the 2 groups, Rick...I went hunting with a light for mottling and found some, began implementing what you taught us here and was amazed to see sky rocketing ppms even after carefully measuring out the epsom salt and water and adding a bunch of Phals (in moss)...FINALLY I'm beginning to understand what you are talking about, Rick, about control!! It is like all the pieces are starting to fall into comprehensible place for me, thank you so much! Put a bunch more into rock today so I can CONTROL what happens when I supplement them...And it is all so much fun...You definitely have to add teacher to that impressive life resume of yours...and I simply wish I could just erase parkinsons from your life , my friend. I know everyone you know feels the same. God bless you.

[@rickl.orchids]

Cara, your words always make me smile.........it sounds like Im a nutt.....when I talk about control...being new to orchids.I found its just easier for me.........that TDS meter is invaluable once you start using it and checking #'s........after a while you will get into a routine.... .....This is why I use a TDS meter.......if you measured out, 10 level teaspoons and mixed them with equal amounts of water separate......there would be a lot of variance between all 10 of the solutions....maybe 30-80ppm's.....so when your feeding 100-150ppm max...being off 20%-65%.....thats way to much variance to feed correctly........using that meter, and Im spot on every time, or real close.....add using a scale for weights of mixes and it gets even better.......Over time, this trains you to recognize how the plants respond....and at that point you can start diagnosing accurately.....as for the PD.....Im working hard on erasing it.......Blessings as well........

[@thedignator]

I don't really post a lot on KZbin, but I have to leave a comment now. Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge with us, you're truly an inspiration. Stay strong and take care.

[@rickl.orchids]

......your very sweet......thank you for the kind words...

[@nilzasuculentasnaholanda4565]

Oh Rick feel better my friend. I can't imagine what you and you family are going trough . I admire your strenght. Sendind you a big hug my friend. Have a nice day.♥♥♥♥♥♥♥

[@rickl.orchids]

....no worries Nilza.....Im in good hands.....

[@nilzasuculentasnaholanda4565]

Rick L Amém to that .Btw. Your voice still one of the mostly beautifull l have ever, ever heard. Wat a beautiful voice!

[@mdd1128]

Great video Rick! Thanks for sharing your knowledge and as always...sending prayers for you.

[@renateroque6037]

Great info Rick and you sound just fine. I have severe health issues dealing with stage 4 cancer and I get joy out of my orchids. I just started collecting and I love it. Thank you and blessings to you.

[@jackhagenaars165]

Thank you for your response,very helpful...hope your having a good day!

[@koolkol009]

You are great in your presentations. You speak so clearly and your input is from those two articles is invaluable.Many thanks indeed. God bless you!

[@rickl.orchids]

thank you.......those articles are so helpful, provide most of my info I grow by....

[@orchidgarden3124]

Really great video, always enlightening and thought-provoking. Thank you! Take care of yourself. You have many people (including myself) who care about how you are doing, and are sending you positive thoughts and prayers.

[@rickl.orchids]

so sweet Amy.....thank you very much....

[@gcarson]

This video was super helpful. Thank you!

[@kathleenmurphy2379]

! Rick saying prayers for you and thinking about you often and your wife!! God bless you! I just started with orchids a little over a year ago and I have tears in my eyes thinking that maybe we won't be able to ask you for advice anymore I hope you are still able to enjoy your orchids and haven't had to find homes or a lot of your babies. I wish I lived close so I could come help you and your wife but I live too far away in Maryland. And if I came to see you and now I have a smile on my face while I'm saying this who would water my almost 40 orchids?! Thank you for doing these KZbin videos because I've watched many of them over and over again. I've also shared what you taught me and everyone else about mobile and immobile nutrients a lot of people don't know anything about that just like I didn't until you talked about it. So I'm watching this video over again so hopefully all your good information will sink into my head and I won't forget! I hope your wife can read any comments that are left to you and that you're healthy and can enjoy your life. Things must be pretty tough on your way right now so God please give her the strength to take care of her beloved husband. He's been so proud of you when he talks about you on his videos. Well I'm off to watching this video again God bless you and your family

[@willajohnson8577]

Glad I found you. Good info. I watch the Orchid Whisperer too. Love her soft southern voice. Just got 2 small ones from Kroger, think I will try this on one if them they aren't as deep green as your treated ones. Will use on the 2 larger ones I got from Lowes after this trial run. Tks for sharing, your neighbor in Tn.

[@rickl.orchids]

Thanks Willa, let me know how they do for you,.....

[@NYCOrchidQueen]

great video. I've seen those in some of my plants or plants that I've gotten and then either quickly went down hill or have recovered. My older phals have beautiful dark green leaves. my newer ones have that color variations. They come like that from the sellers. Even good sellers send out plants that have issues. Going to look at my orchids again in the morning Sunlight is the best light ♥♥ I never mix chemicals or fertilizers. You never know what kind of reaction you are going to get.

[@lem.7528]

Thank you for the fabulous information video from you as always. God bless you and stay healthy! Take care!

[@rickl.orchids]

very sweet.....thank you

[@TheFloatingflower]

WOW, great video. And for your Parkinson´s all the best!

[@MissyR2538]

Oh, thank you for this video! I have a beautiful mini phal that has these light green colored leaves and I couldn't understand why. You're right, there is a huge difference in the orchids you added the magnesium to versus the ones that didn't get it. Now I know what to buy to help my orchid, thank you for the well explained information and very well articulated in a simple way anyone can understand. Also, you are such an inspiration to everyone going through your illness and seeming to be so strong in spite of.. This video is a few years old so, I pray you're doing well and will definitely keep you in my prayers.. Great job, sir! God bless you!!😇

[@bltperky]

Wow..excellent video on teaching us about how/when to feed or or have do when signs of a deficiency show up! To think when I began this hobby a couple of years ago that I only had to water them! Now I think I understand why some of my orchid d leaves are mottled. Thank you!

[@rickl.orchids]

thank you Barb....I was stunned after treatmnet....its one of the most important minerals for keeping them green........

[@christrinder1255]

Wow Ricky, it’s as clear as daylight the difference between the ones treated with Epsom salts and the ones without! Looking at my phals, I think they are deficient too, when I saw your dark green beautiful shiny healthy leaves, I noticed the difference. Will adhere to your instructions😊😊

[@joanneacevedo8201]

Rick, I was told by a grower here that sell beautiful healthy and blooming orchids they only use 1 teaspoon 20/20/20 with 1 teaspoon of Epson Salt per gallon of water. I first tried this mix on my Vandas and they began blooming like crazy. Then I began on some of my collection.

[@rulyaisyah9169]

Per gallon means per Liter?

[@ashleymarquez7630]

Berry good information I can see the big difference! Thank you so much for sharing, 👍 I love how you keep your self motivated so that is great for you!! I really enjoy your videos take care my friend 😆Blessings! 🙏

[@eileenpryor5369]

I was just noticing this on my phals and oncidium. I will increase my magnesium, thank you so much.

[@donnacone4714]

2 of my first Pals I purchased are showing this so sure going to start this on them. But one is also has droopy leaves! Finally got batteries for meters so I can start giving right amount of nutrients. Thank you for helping 🦸🏼‍♂️. 👏🏼

[@richardlawton1023]

Absolutely agree. Im useing between 20-40 ppm of magnesium...

[@ubself]

Thinking of you Rick, hope your holding in there tight and have some joy on your journey

[@GardenTour2791]

Orchids you care good, this kind of very beautiful

[@rickl.orchids]

thank you so much......very sweet

[@auroraamaia4332]

You doing Just fine don't think like that do what you doing I enjoy all we all have things in helth so what keep doing what you like to do don't get things I mean sickness to control you You take control of that

[@raydenzidane6]

Awesome channel! Your vertical leaf senecio will get more purple with full south sun.

[@rickl.orchids]

thank you Ray, one of my favorite plants....very cool info.

[@zazelda]

So informative! I love this type of video. Ok, I love all of them I thought the first phals you brought out looked great until you showed the treated ones. The difference is amazing after just 3 treatments. By the way, I've never noticed your voice echoing in the grow room or being difficult to understand. I saw a 4 minute youtube ad for the electronic part of hydroponics- automatic timers, etc. It featured a guy that grows lettuce. I was blown away with the magnitude of his operation. Holy cow, what an investment! I hope your friend can recover.

[@rickl.orchids]

thank you so much Amy....your always supportive and have wonderful feedback and questions......my friend is already restocked and growing another crop.......these things happen in growing.....his was just a larger scale loss....

[@susanmoisey2368]

Perfect timing! I have a Phal liadoro that has yellow blotches on two older leaves. It’s currently in spike so I want to keep it as healthy as possible. The plant is growing in semi-hydro with leca. I have CalMag and Epsom salts. I think I will use the latter to treat the plant.

[@rickl.orchids]

......tiny amounts......and then watch for reaction.....you can always add more later...

[@AlokeshBagchi]

Dear Rick, Its Heart Breaking to know about your Health Issues. I Pray. I found your voice has changed . So Sorry. I follow your recommendations and now growing good Dendrobiums. May God Be Kind to Bestow you Health. Pray.

[@annafay5262]

Hi Rick, Thank you for such an informative video! I was wondering why some of my Phals have mottled leaves and now I know! I'm going to use ES next watering and see what happens. Hope you are feeling well.

[@Korina42]

Thanks Rick, that's an amazing transformation. I finally put some Epsom salts in my fert water. We'll see how my poor purple mini Phal responds.

[@rickl.orchids]

thanks Korina......try it on one or two.......see if it helps.......then you can do them all....purple can be genetics, but also Mag or P def....

[@anjanrahi3787]

God bless u my father 83 has Parkinson from last 13 years when he speaks v hardly understand but I prey for u God give good health

[@MelissaWalker82]

Thank you! Brand new grower here and have been wondering why my otherwise great looking phal has some leaf yellowing and this could be it! Leaves are firm and look good but not vibrant green. Granted I just brought it home last month and it does have some dead roots I need to deal with in a repotting. Just waiting to switch mediums. Anxious to try fortified pumice as a medium. Anyway I will supplement with magnesium and see how it goes :) thanks!

[@rickl.orchids]

……...remember...….magnesium deficiency is caused by lack of calcium sometimes, and bad roots on phals is sure sign of low calcium levels....give them some calmag and they will grow roots out fast, then they can absorb the magnesium better......

[@casmarykay8433]

Wow! Thank you soooo much for making this video! I know what I'm doing today. :D

[@cynthiaford3302]

Excellent video and very informative. Ive watched a few of your videos on supplements and recently began using them. It took me a while to understand the PPM and ratios but Ive ordered a meter and hopefully things will clear up.

[@rickl.orchids]

great Cynthia.......ask if I can help in any way.

[@YnseSchaap]

This made it painfully clear my Phals (but one ) have a need for something

[@sherrywalker4619]

Hang in there my friend!💞🐾💖

[@rickl.orchids]

always Sherry.........!

[@sherrywalker4619]

Incredible differences!

[@candicebam231]

Hi Rick! Thanks so much for your very informative videos! I have really learned a lot from you! Do you have any advice on how I could use calcium nitrate with my orchids please? I just got a bag of it today and now Im too scared to use it. I will ofcourse not mix it with other things but Im unsure of the ppm to give. Please help? Have a blessed day and keep up the good work!

[@briannamanzano9505]

Wow so glad i found you, i really hope you can help me! I dont know much about orchids, i can see you know lots! My orchid always gives new leaves but no new shoot or flower. what could be wrong and what can i do to fix this problem? im so sad ive always loved orchids!! such beautiful flowers! Thanks for all your info and we will be keeping you in our prayers!

[@rickl.orchids]

........thank you very kind.......new growth and flower production is triggered .....by hormones.........hormones are triggered by light and temps.......depends on the type of orchids........some need a dark period to flower........even a night light can keep them from blooming.........some need lower temps, or a cool period to get them started blooming.....

[@sharonbeck8209]

Thank you Rick.

[@RogersOrchidsGardenandBonsai]

It sounds like 'little things' that many either wouldn't notice or think was anything other than natural ageing. But when the difference is SHOWN folks should sit up and listen. It's often difficult when making our vids to get good examples of what we are trying to show. I've just had a 'fast flash' around all my plants and can now easily see where this is occuring and where it's not so looks like some 'spot treatments' for mine and with dosages, frequency etc. I feel 'safe' having a go at this. Little points like Calmag is buffered so that the Calcium gets in there at higher PH values - I didn't know that! Even little things like the fact that the paler colour is likely to be mottled rather than even and on the older leaves - good stuff as paler top growth could just be too much top light or other things.

[@rickl.orchids]

yes.....details,... these are the hardest plants to diagnose.....finding those common factors is key...........

[@michaelpye5972]

Brilliant Rick

[@rickl.orchids]

Thank you Michael.........

[@kevinpriestley2614]

Hi Rich, I have just been watching 20 of you episodes and I am very interested in the potassium levels in Orchid and other elements to keep them strong. I live in England, in Derbyshire where when it’s hot it’s hot, and cold is the same. Except over the last 5 year we have only had one bad winter 2018. But where we live we don’t have a greenhouse so everything is grown in a grow room under light and heat. So out in the outside world, where orchids grow, I try to copy the environment and conditions. But some things are missing nutrients, so by listening to you comments is where I can grow them better. So can you tell me where I can get some additional information from, I do have some Orchid book encyclopaedias and things. But where can I get other information from. ???? Thank you and keep up the good work.

[@rickl.orchids]

Great question Kevin...……..research is the best bet...…….its more about how you type in the request ……….try "effects of Potassium on Phalaenopsis"...…...things like that...……"effects of Nitrogen On Dendrobiums"...……...Dr. Wang and a few others are great reading....

[@daniellesorchidranch1591]

Once again excellent information! I have Epson salts but haven't used it yet. I will this week though as I've seen this mottling on a few of my plants.

[@rickl.orchids]

try that light below the leaves........you can see the issue before it effects the plants real bad.......thank you

[@kathleenmurphy2379]

If I am using water from the dehumidifier is that like 0 parts per million. Like distilled water is it? I cleaned the dehumidifier tubs really well so there wouldn't be any bacteria or anything floating around in it. I'm new to orchids I've tried before and never managed to keep them alive very long but I understand now it's due to not checking out the root system whenever I buy them maybe watering too often not allowing them to dry out. I've learned a lot from your station on KZbin and I started out watching Jacolyn's orchids... she's a sweet creative lady. So I've put all my new orchids in new bark or if they wete in moss in bark. In the past six weeks I have probably bought almost 20 orchids all phalaenopsis or Minis. I thought I was doing pretty well until I watched your videos and now I feel like I don't know much about anything since you check your pH and parts per million and and I don't check that. I just ordered two meters one to check parts per million I want to check pH . You've mentioned some things such as some nutrients are absorbed at a certain pH and others aren't absorbed. Another question I have is what happens about fertilizing like you do if I use bark and you use Pebbles. Do I fertilize just like you do every time you water do I rinse them first like Jacqueline does before she fertilizes. If my orchids are dry I would imagine that putting fertilizer on dry Roots would burn them. I also bought some Alaska brand seaweed kelp fertilizer at Home Depot. It was reduced do you like less than $2 so I bought a couple bottles of it I hope it doesn't go bad. Lots of questions but I don't want any of my orchids to die like the ones I bought before especially my yellow and pink that are my favorite. Of course I only bought one of the time before because I didn't know what I was doing now I think I know what I'm doing but not sure I hope I just didn't buy these to lose them

[@rickl.orchids]

…...Kathleen......it can be overwhelming......the last thing I want to do is make it complicated for others.....I recommend if your having trouble growing orchids to check you water ph and ppm...….that way you know if the water your using is OK.....orchids have to have very pure water....orchids like tiny amounts of nutrients often……...the meters help you check the strength of your nutrient mix....that's all that is...….understanding the ph. absorption of different nutrients allows you to better diagnose orchid issues......

[@ericafrance72]

Yor ochids looks lovely.

[@ferguscousins7510]

Erica France b

[@greydoe]

Hi Rick. Watched this, went "hmmm..." watched it again. Then did a search for magnesium and African Violets. Turns out it's recommended (doesn't mean I automatically do it, but...) to do an Epsom salt soak to AVs once/month. The directions given were to put the ES solution into a plant saucer, then place the plant in there for 10 minutes, once/month, so it's being soaked up from the bottom. Have you ever done that with your AVs, and if so, what do you think? I'm trying it on 6 of my AVs. Question: How long did it take from soak to seeing a difference in your orchids?

[@rickl.orchids]

....good questions.....I have never done the soak method with any violets as you described......but there are many ways to do these things.....It doesn't sound like a bad idea....I have given them ES before....there is some in the mix I use,....but I have had a few show what I thought was mag def before.... .....as for the phals....they received several feeds of ES over about 3 weeks.....they greened up very quickly........thank you

[@hillbillyorchids]

Hey dear friend, So sorry you have life’s problems to deal with but your such an inspiration to me! I honestly don’t think I could have gotten as far with my orchids if not for you. I actually watched some of your older videos and my brain exploded! It all came together for me. I was always taught 7.0 is the best, 7.0 is the sweet spot, was shocked to learn different absorption at different ph. So 1 question, I can mix the cal mag and epsoms salt? I must tell you the salt scares me when it comes to burning the roots. But I have that mottling on a couple of my phals so I’m gonna give it a whirl. I have noticed huge difference using cal mag.

[@rickl.orchids]

always feed separate if possible.......your very kind Paula......

[@florsante2408]

Hola muy buenas¡ Me encanta este video,,,,pero no puedo entenderlo solo hablo castellano(soy Española),,,,y me encantaria,,,,aprenderia mucho con ello,,,,Que lastima :(( Graciass

[@davenmayeda9917]

Wow you’re amazing

[@ArtistBrianSheffield]

I use a natural stimulant and fertilizer for ALL my plants. Salvias, Gardenias, Milkweed, and of course Orchids. Aquarium water. used aquarium water to be specific. A 5 gallon tank produces 2-3 gallons per week. A 29 gallon tank produces 15-20 gallons ect of pre-fertilized water made by nature not a chemical plant. Better for bees, hummingbirds, butterflies ect. All the things in the garden or greenhouse that benefit people if it is even just for something beautiful to admire.

[@rickl.orchids]

...I love the way your looking at your grow parameters........wonderful

[@ArtistBrianSheffield]

Rick L. Orchids Us Alabama fellas know how to do this!

[@rickl.orchids]

heh heh heh............

[@aida087]

+Rick L. Orchids. Good morning Rick and thank you for this video. I'm stressing alittle trying to save my two Phal orchids, a mini and a large. Being that it's cold in my apartment the mini has suffered bloom/root rot and it was doing better but now the leaves are limp, leathery and losing color. The large one is down to one leaf and no roots from crown/root rot. I've treated them with both peroxide and cinnamon and praying for the best. Do you think the magnesium will help save them, they're both in bark btw. And you sound very clear to me but sending healing prayers.

[@rickl.orchids]

Aida, thank you for the kind words.....the description makes me think its Calcium related.....leave them bare rooted or un potted...if possible.......especially if no roots.......lack of Ca will cause loss of roots and keep them from growing back......it also keeps magnesium from being absorbed well.......so the plant gets more deficient.....if you have some calmag....mix it in some room temp water, add a few drops of calmag......if they hydrate they may start growing......if not may be too late......let me know how they do...

[@aida087]

Rick L. Orchids. Rick thank you so much, I appreciate your advice. Unfortunately I have no Calmag but is there an alternative or a diy mix? Also should I try suspending the orchids over water as they do in water culture?

[@rickl.orchids]

......not sure of a dry alternative...sorry....water culture will provide a moist environment which will help roots...does your orchid mix contain any calcium.....that would be next best thing,...

[@aida087]

Rick L. Orchids. WOW, I have both the orchid plant food spikes and also the mist, and neither one has calcium in them, I never realized that. So I guess I have to buy a new food for them, is there another brand that's close to Calmag, if not I'll have to order it but thank you again Rick for all of your advice, I'll try my best and will let you know how it goes, have a blessed day Rick.😊

[@aprillethomas7840]

I have used Epsom Salts on my hydrangeas and roses for a long time (I sprinkled it around the plant). I've never had success dissolving it in water. Any suggestions? Also, are you not treating with fertilizer while you're treating with ES? I'll look forward to your response. God Bless you as you make the best of each day - we all could benefit from your example.

[@rickl.orchids]

very kind Aprille.......I feed ES separate......you can mix with nutrients....but not a good practice due to bonding of minerals....I use 150pm or around 1level teaspoon per gallon.......it dissolves very quickly in water........

[@aprillethomas7840]

Thank you, Rick. I'll look for some that need help and use it today. Have a sparkling day!

[@durrellcolon5960]

Love u Rick.

[@georgiabarth2066]

Rick, Just started watching your videos. Thank you very much for all the information. I have been growing only Phals. You are a wealth of knowledge & I have the fertilizer/supplements you use.Now will try using them as you have done. It is a learning by trial & error experience for me. But it’s fun. Sure appreciate your research & effort in making your videos. A question : I notice all the little pebbles, river rocks on top of your containers... are they also mixed in with the bark or do you use all bark in container with the rocks only on top? MANY THANKS .

[@rickl.orchids]

…...your close...….the pots are full of rock...….no bark in any of mine....I grow in lava rock, river rock or pea gravel...

[@ruthanderson9458]

Hi Rick, I hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving! Wishing many, many blessings for you and your family! Question: Regarding the MSU fertilizer, you said you were waiting for Spring to try it. What is your orchid fertilization routine for the winter... and what type are you using? I have a lot of new growth on my Phals and I'm wondering how to fertilize??

[@rickl.orchids]

Bobbette....i will get into that this week....i think I have a routine started.......hope you had blessed day as well..

[@porcuzburator8778]

Hello, Rick! Sorry to hear about the problems with your voice. To be honest you sound very musical to me. I bet you could sing Elvis great! Anyways, wanned to say good work with the informative videos and thank you!

[@poodlepup1]

hey... xxx sending you a hug my friend ... i dont know a lot about Parkinsons but i can not imagine what you are going through and your wife and family... I hope for all that this disease is not moving too quick .. and that you are around for a lot longer we need you on here.. i for one look forward to watching your videos every couple of days...... just imagine that i have those mottled yellow leaves .... i have given 2 doses of the ES at what was recommended or am i wrong is the dose too low??? what is the right dose please. .... do i soak the whole plant or spray ??? thank you for doing the video.. Rick...x

[@rickl.orchids]

thanks Chris....I am being honest when I speak about my illness......I dont have long, just trying to enjoy life while I can..........thank you for always being so kind...

[@ditmagiknietvergeten]

Great video... I got the recipe from you and amy 6 weeks ago and I wanted to film the before and after every month for 6 months suolementing epsom once a month...but i did not have time yet.... last week i filmed the mixing of my epsom salt and calcium... and i did end up with 221tds i havent filmed my orchids that got the suplements.... will have to do that over lol. I have a few that are light and a few that are sooo purple its weird and scary... my fertilizer is a good mix of 20.20.20 all chelated micronutrients and 2% magnesium but no calcium. So i will have to get cracking giving them their calcium flush and give them magnesium.. but film that this time Also i will do epsom salts and calcium seperate from now thanks for the warning .. I did kniw that the chelated iron and micro nutrients made shure the where absorbent in a wider range of ph...the very first thing you read after googling chelated explains that in horticulture chelated nutrients are created and widely used for that specific property... But a lot probably wont know so its so good you explain and let people know whats safe and what not and why and how stuff works. Your still a godsend to us growers and i thank you for all the time and energy you put in this. Its appriciated and understand that its not easy to do. Much love rose ❤🌹❤

[@rickl.orchids]

your sweet Rose......we all struggle and do what we can........when you get a minute....look up K deficiencies in orchids.........

[@ditmagiknietvergeten]

Rick L i know the potasium deficiency also looks purple but i cant fathom it can be a lack of potasium since i fertilize them with 20.20.20 and 3 of the 4 waterings...and calcium blocks potasium and they havent bin getting calcium... but i will look again and safe some article's to recocnise the symptoms thanks dear. Ps i did tried to call let ne know when your free i still have my usa sim card on so i have time in spades atm. But what you showed today sonk in that i need to get going with the epsom salt and calcium since i have multiple new growths that aborted 3 kingianums and 1 den. nobile and it might be water but it also can be nutrients.... and seeing the effect of your plants shows that uts important that they have enoug chlorophyll since i have them in 13 hours of artificial light...anf my phals need to be healthier before spring comes...since they now sit in a windowsill and get more light... Anyway i ramble. Love hugs and if yoy have energy and want please mail me and ill call. ❤🌹❤💋

[@rickl.orchids]

.....not saying it is K......just want you to keep things like that in your mind.....call anytime

[@ditmagiknietvergeten]

Rick L Aaahhh well because i know they look a like...i thought you wanted me to keep an open mind and be shure if the diagnose before i treat. Will call you in a few minutes jeeej 😁🎉🎁❤💋🙋😊 Okay emo explosion...

[@SvetlanasHappyOrchids]

But don’t you think ,Rick, those leaves on the bottom they get less light too... being covered by the top leaf ... less light will affect chlorophyll production as well I use ES twice a year... like I was told in our orchid society...pbbly should do it more often

[@rickl.orchids]

great point....all these phals sit in the same spot together, getting the same light......yes it can have some effect......but after getting ES.....all the leaves....even the lower ones greened up........less light would be a different set of symptoms.....elongated leaves, and a pale overall color....no mottling....2x a year is not enough magnesium....unless your mix has some in it........thanks Lana...you always make me think....

[@SvetlanasHappyOrchids]

Rick L of course Mg is a part of fertilizer I use.. Miracle grow, or something else... but will try to watch closer of Mg deficiency... color of leaves will tell me ...will try Cal Mag as well when find it Thank you Rick

[@rickl.orchids]

.....even in Florida...greenhouses with water from limestone wells in the ground... still have to add calcium and magnesium to their routine's..........depends on the size of the plants, media used, and how fast they are growing. The Better Grow fertilizer i use has magnesium in it.........but very little.....thanks Lana........you make me think about growing.......

[@tobiesmom]

I'm wondering...do you tend to see magnesium deficiency in phals more so than other species? Because of the shape/size of the leaves? If orchids could speak, they would be thanking you for the wonderful TLC you give them! That's what I tell my dogs but they just stare me like I'm weird! 😊

[@rickl.orchids]

Caroline.....great question.......cant answer that honestly......still trying to lock down more symptoms......but I have several cattleyas with it as well...was planning on doing another show on them.........you and I love our dogs like we love orchids..........nothing to good for them.....

[@tobiesmom]

i was just curious because it just seems like you see magnesium deficiency more in phals. Vandas are such heavy feeders that it seems like they could easily develop a deficiency? Yes, please do show the cattleyas. And dendrobiums if you have any that are mag deficient! 🌿

[@rickl.orchids]

Cattleya's I am working on one.....Dens......I haven't fiqured out yet.....their cane structure and deciduous leaves make it tough.......but its just a matter of finding the common traits.......I will.....thanks Caroline..

[@sherrywalker4619]

Way to go Rick! We all learn from you!💞

[@rickl.orchids]

too kind........thank you so much!

[@edj2745]

Hello Rick, I'm still learning from the best and have a question for you. Is it safe to use Epsom salt late in the year like right now and on phals with spike? Thank you

[@rickl.orchids]

.....if a plant is deficient.......I would give it some......magnesium is absorbed thru the leaves just as well as the roots.....being in flower wont hurt a thing....good question Ed..

[@sarahissac6118]

crazy difference!

[@sophiek8276]

Hi Rick I hope you are doing fine. I have a question if you can answer me thank you. I first bought some calcium months ago but there was in it nitrogen (8 %) so i ordered another one with only 12 % calcium. The first thing is it ok if it doesn t have iron? The second thing, my ppm is ok 50 but my ph is high ..7. Does the calcium works with this high ph because it has to be around 5.8. I have a product for fish to reduce the ph but i am not confortable to use it. In fact i am afraid to mix and make a chimical wrong stuff. And... if i throw all this fertilize in the sink it s ok ? I don t feel confortable also. So a lot of questions here i am new 😊🤔. Waiting to read you.... thanks.

[@myIsabella53]

Hi Rick. I'm fairly new to the orchid hobby. Since my water is from my own private well, I'm still working out how to provide the right feed/ppm and ph levels. At this point I'm looking at Cal/Mag products. So I really appreciate all of the very detailed information you give on this subject. I may be misunderstanding what I've been reading on the websites of different manufacturers...it's referred to it as a "supplement" to regular feed so I gathered that it is intended to be incorporated with fertilizer. In this video you said do not "mix mixes". I kind of understand that but I could still use a little more clarification....ie can I mix Cal/Mag with a low nitrogen low calcium fertilizer or do they need to be separate applications? The majority of my orchids are in inorganic medium in self watering pots. I flush all of them with every feed. Since they always have water available to them, I'm not sure how to keep the applications separate.

[@rickl.orchids]

.....great questions Susan........Calmag contains calcium and magnesium...Calcium's can mix OK usually, ...but the magnesium can sometimes not mix with other calcium's correctly......If a mix has calcium in it .....I try and not add additional calcium/magnesium supplements to them...you can, it may be fine....just make sure it doesn't create precipitation issues........That's were 2 nutrients bind together and you will see floating particles.....like in a snow globe....at that point it can be toxic to plants.....I prefer to feed the supplements separate...There are exceptions.... I use BetterGro orchid feed during the warmer months and it contains no calcium or magnesium.......so I will add Calmag to it when I mix it up......its not a hard set rule.........just know issues can occur, and use caution.....You can mix calmag in a sprayer and water the roots between soakings......to add some additional calcium...

[@myIsabella53]

@@rickl.orchids perfect explanation! Thank you so much. Btw I love your channel and always look forward to your videos. You have THE most beautiful and healthy orchids.

[@XaViEr3520]

How do you not have more subscribers. You talk about orchids in a way more intellectual level than other orchid youtubers I’ve seen on here, i have a buddy who also is in the starting stages of Parkinson’s I tell him to go get it checked but he says out of sight out of mind 😔

[@rickl.orchids]

your very kind........I hope your friend listens to you........i believe many of the issues can be reversed and kept away if you begin early......I was in a wheelchair and struggled to walk........much better now....

[@sophiek8276]

So it s better to fertilize on the foliage just with the epson salt. The leaf is already yellow. My 2 keikis in moss also one more than the other one leaf turned yellow. Yeah maybe they were more exposed to the sun light. My cal was 5,8 ph and 98 ppm. Ok i am going just to keep with the epson salt on the foliages. I noticed that the leaves have grown up but my question is does the epson salt went in the whole orchid. And... sorry to bother u i had a gift 2 weeks ago, a new phal with flowers and buts. The leaves are a little purple and yellow. I learned that it s better to not fertilize with better grow because it s in bud. What do u advise to me? I just give cal and e. Salt. Thank you ...

[@rickl.orchids]

....I think you have very good instincts, .......drop the cal down to 30-40ppm.....and if its calmag type....up the ph to 6.2-4....the epson salt will be pulled thru the entire plant.....spray it a few times ....then stop....remember tiny trace amounts....my mix for a big healthy plant is 125ppm...to 150ppm and that includes all the nutrients...........sick ones or young.....get 1/3rd of that at most......once they are growing well......increase the feed....its better to give the sick ones or ones that we are unsure whats wrong....with tiny amounts to see how they respond...Ca & Epson is perfect......but tiny amounts......once those root tips pop...up it a little....

[@sophiek8276]

ok thank you very much... i ll try to do my best. thanks again.

[@loribadgero1035]

Rick, do you ever add Dolomite lime to your plant pots? It waters in nicely, in my experience, but raises the pH so you have to be a little careful of when you use it. Just a thought.

[@rickl.orchids]

.....yes.. I have, and will be adding it again ....Now that my plants are outside,.. they are growing very strong, with many new shoots, and root growth.......Dolomitic lime usually keeps a ph around neutral...7.0... Hydroponic nutrients,... that orchid growers use,.... are designed to to lower ph around a point 1.0.....so that would drop the ph from 7.0 to 6.0....which is a great for absorption of hydroponic nutirents....and is where majority of orchids feed......all I use is a couple of pinches over the media....

[@loribadgero1035]

@@rickl.orchids I’ve heard it’s helpful if you are ‘buying a little time’ before a repot of spag or something else that might be a little sour, and you have a spike. Have you had that experience? I’m just curious as to how often you could use it.

[@rickl.orchids]

@@loribadgero1035 .....I agree....in moss or bark I think it will add time till you need a repot.......I grow in clay pots with Lava rock, river rock, stone, etc.......or mounted.....My pots probably flush thru more than moss or bark.....I give mine a few pinches over the media....maybe twice a month.....In moss or bark.....if I can still see traces of it on the media.....I wouldnt reapply......It does contain a good amount of calcium and magnesium.....

[@loribadgero1035]

@@rickl.orchids thank you for that information Rick!!

[@renesonse5794]

Hey Rick! I'm learning so much from your videos! I'm really hoping you can dispel my confusion with TDS and supplements. What is the acceptable total TDS range when all supplements are added? I use distilled water so am starting with 0. All of my orchids are in LECA and I flush & water them weekly with distilled water. I use Dyna-Gro Orchid Pro 7-8-6 food and CALIiMAGic 1-0-0 supplement. The suggested ratios are 1/2 tsp/gal and 1 tsp/gal respectively but I have to cut to 1/8 tsp/gal for each to stay under 100 TDS. From watching your videos, I'm now interested in using Garden Lime and Epsom Salts as well. This will increase the TDS level of course so how would I adjust the TDS amounts for each and what is the TDS target? Should I use these four supplements and can I use them all at one time when watering/feeding?

[@rickl.orchids]

.......good question........at the moment I feeding 135-145ppm.......that includes all supplements.......I adjust my mix to add or subtract supplements.....use a pipette to add the Dyna-Gro in drops....dont use spoons or measuring cups.......I add the nutrients in drops and then measure......and sneak up on the #'s........until I get use to the mix.....I'm feeding several times a week still.......even inside.......as long as they are growing........Im feeding ....Of 135ppm......50 of it is calcium/nitrogen and 80ppm are my Jacks 5-12-26

[@renesonse5794]

@@rickl.orchids Finally! A straight forward and direct answer for TDS question. :) Btw, what about my question of adding Garden Lime & Epsom Salts along with the food and CalMag? Helpful or not necessary?

[@dawndyke5964]

happy day Rick, I can't understand if you use the mag in the water bath and spray the leaves. I have tried it cuz of your video, and have sprayed it on the leaves as well Did I do wrong? I got epson salts at the drug store. Do I have to flush the pots also? I think the plants look better but of course it will take time. Other than that, all my orchids are fine and surprising me which is a hard thing to do at my 85 yrs. Anyway, God bless and take care of you always, oxoxoxox,

[@rickl.orchids]

Dawn...thank you,.. no your fine spraying calmag on leaves.....wont hurt....unless too strong......I spray it all the time.....I just dont like to spray inside......makes a mess on the shelves and walls over time....salt/mineral build up...I prefer Epson salts in a spray......they absorb it better thru leaves....than roots....and at 85 yrs young you still have lots of growing to do.......thank you....god bless, & hugs from Bama!

[@ruthanderson9458]

My Yorkie, Pepper, loves your baby. She tries to talk to him! Question, is it ok to use the ES on a Phal in bloom in moss?

[@rickl.orchids]

yes absolutely........if the plant is showing signs of deficiency.......feed it, wont hurt.....Hoagie and Pepper would have a blast running around in the garden.......

[@mariofaggiano8247]

How much Magnisium you mix to one litre of water, this is first of actually heard a lot of information on magnisium or Epson salts i am a bigginer just started to learn i would love to know the mix in epson salts to 1 litre of watet. Thank you for the great information good luck with your health f from Australia.

[@jackhagenaars165]

How often are you using the Epsom salts after your initial treatment?

[@rickl.orchids]

since I started using the dolomitic lime, which contains 10% magnesium......Im only adding magnesium once a month......and thats more for the few that are still showing the need for some....if your plants are low in Mag......give it to them every few weeks till they green back up.........then maybe once a month.......see how they respond........good question.

[@birdluvrs]

Hi Rick, great information. Thank you. I am currently experiencing these yellowing, mottling, and translucent leaves on many of my phals, even though I use an orchid fertilizer. In one part of your video, you state not to mix things together when fertilizing. For your examples of the phals that you treated with epsom salts, did you only water with epsom, or did you also use other fertilizer? Did you mix, or alternate? Thank you!

[@nitawal]

Just to confirm, it’s 1 tsp of Epson salt per gallon of water about every 3- 4 weeks? Then for cal-mag is it 12-15 drops per gallon of water. How often for the cal-mag? Thank you for your help.

[@janefromtennessee]

Can I use Epsom salts if I have that problem with Phals? Use it with the fertilizer? How much if so? As you know, I'm new to this. I only have a few so far until I learn more. God bless you.

[@rickl.orchids]

I answered below as well.........dont mix this with anything else.......better to be safe.....1tsp/gal.......for a couple of watering......then just work it into your feeding routine...

[@janefromtennessee]

Thank you

[@normamorales6856]

Hi Rick, hope you feel better. Your phals are beautiful, and I love those little pots, where can I get them?

[@rickl.orchids]

Norma.....your too kind.....the little clay pots......are what they come in.....I drill holes in them and reuse..........

[@normamorales6856]

Rick L , thank you for your kind words, I know it's hard for you, my sister's husband is going thru the same and you know my problem, GOD is always with us, prayers work. I use the Epson salt and I love it.

[@sheilacopley7781]

Hi Rick, I have a question I have my phals in bark I had to take them out for the third time I keep getting little silver bugs in them I have tried everything to get rid of them they just keep coming back. So I was wondering what else could I grow in I've tried water culture also but it didn't do very well also.

[@rickl.orchids]

Sheila, sorry your having issues, the silver bugs are probably 'Spring-tails"....they eat decaying plant matter, roots bark, etc...they wont eat live plant usually, ....regardless.......a quick treat with neem and they will go away........its important to grow in what your comfortable with as well as what works best for your environment.........if bark is best for you....its just a matter of getting control o it.........everyone deals with pest at 1st.......water culture is easy as well.....but again...environment is important.........in a cooler grow space......inert medias are less likely to cause issues with moisture.......if your grow space is warm........you can grow in anything ........

[@sunshyn412]

what kind of Calcium/magnesium nutrients do you suggest? I'm not sure what to look for?

[@sophiek8276]

Hi Rick. i hope you are doing fine. i have a question à few days ago i make foliage Cal/E salt on my oncidium. i see now one on the leaf has turned yellow ... why ? what happened? thanks.

[@rickl.orchids]

.....a foliar spray?......unless to strong, or sprayed during lights on....sunshine, etc......shouldn't hurt them.....Magnesium is absorbed by the leaves easier than roots......calcium not as much.......still shouldn't cause that, clean it off with fresh water.......let me know how it does....