I checked it out and they do have Orchid Plus which is 20-14-13 and urea-free. So consider this with your advice :0)

Elaine

The 20-14-13 formula would be a better choice because the fertilizer you are presently using lacks some nitrogen which means the foliage of the plant is not getting very much fertilizer in favor of the middle number which is for flowers. This fertilizer is fine for ocassional use. I would prefer a more even number such as 20-20-20 for violetes.

I believe 1/4 teaspoon to a gallon of warm water would be fine for your plants. You should water with this room temperature water every 7-10 days. Every five or six weeks, take the plant to the sink and flush out fertilizer salts which have built up by spraying the soil with warm plain water.

Variegated plants will grow well with any of the fertilizers mentioned. It is when we are taking plants to show and what a huge bloom burst that we use 5-52-10. This should not be used for longer than a few weeks because there is not enough nitrogen (first number) to support the plant.

There are natural fertilizers such as fish emulsion, sea weed, bat guano, and other products that work very well. These have no urea and ordinarily can never burn your plants so this is a good choice. I would not recommend using blood meal or bone meal because you have to find out the quantity to the quantity of soil mix. Then if you happen to use the artificial fertilizer before the bone or blood meal is used up you risk burning your plants.

Nancy

Thanks, Nancy. I knew I would get some good advice. I used to help my mom grow violets years ago and I don't remember it being this complicated!:o)

Elaine

Hi Elaine,
I believe that Cape Cod Violetry sells a urea free fertilizer. I think its the Optimara fert. they sell. You can also get Optimara fertilizer at their retail site. Follow the link.
Fred in NJ

Here is a link that might be useful: Selective gardener

Nancy

Im going to be getting some fish emulsion for my tomato seedlings , but can I use it as an alternate food for what Im using now and whats the ratio for it . Im wicking all my avs. Does it get diluted with water? Sorry never used it.