Huge orchid flowers will 'flourish' when watered with unusual kitchen ingredient

Orchids, with their wild, delicate, and exotic charm, are surprisingly low-maintenance as , 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 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 . 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 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."