Molasses and honey - NewHorizonOrchids.com (2025)

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Albert Nakaji
Posts: 501
Joined: Fri Mar 22, 2013 8:43 pm

Molasses and honey

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Postby Albert Nakaji »

There seems to be conflicting opinions about whether orchids can take in sugar, in the form of molasses, through the leaves and roots. Many sources suggest that molasses affects the media (primarily dirt, so that wouldn't apply to orchids) and that orchids do not take anything from the molasses directly though the roots or leaves. Any opinions on this?

Also, since it's also a sugar source, might honey also be used for the same purpose?

Incidentally, both are considered to be antifungal/antibacterial agents. Would their use helps to prevent fungal and bacterial infections?

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Albert Nakaji
Posts: 501
Joined: Fri Mar 22, 2013 8:43 pm

Re: Molasses and honey

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Postby Albert Nakaji »

Thank you, Chuckie.

It seems, based on the Japanese article, that foliar application of molasses does significantly increase yield (but not tested on orchids).

The other article seems to suggest that such applications (I assume simple C includes molasses) does not yield significant differences (but not tested on orchids).

Unless I misunderstood the articles, this is where I started the question.

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polka
Posts: 91
Joined: Wed Mar 20, 2013 2:55 pm
Location: Eastern Texas, near Tyler

Re: Molasses and honey

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Postby polka »

Albert
I don't recall the whole mineral profile of molasses, but I do remember that it contains some potassium (K). The sugar in molasses is a bit simpler than the ones found in honey -- should you go that route, I'd bet on the molasses. The fungal properties of either are hydroscopic -- it draws water away from the fungi, preventing germination of the fungal spores.

I, of course, could be wrong, but that is what I remember.

I would suppose foliar feeding, and direct contact with exposed roots, or at the new growth base would be the best applications.

Take care
Rex

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SARC
Posts: 487
Joined: Wed Mar 20, 2013 12:23 pm

Re: Molasses and honey

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Postby SARC »

There is some information on the use of glucose in the book 'Vandas and Ascocendas and their combinations with other genera' by David L Grove, page 182. This issue of using 'sugar' as plant nutrition is one where you need to go right back to understanding plant physiology and the dynamics of photosynthesis. I always remember my lecturers saying that fertilizer is not plant food. What the plant uses to grow is actually glucose, that is a result of photosynthesis. The basic way to understand this is 'the energy of the sun splits the water molecule which then bonds with carbon dioxide to form glucose'. You then have a whole lot of complex chemistry as to how this is used in the plant.

From my perspective I don't see the need to use glucose if your plants are functioning (photosynthesising) correctly without any imbalances in nutrient levels. For example if leaf analysis shows a calcium deficiency then the addition of glucose isn't going to fix that. Actually I'm now tempted to go out and do a few experiments to see the results on plant size and growth.

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Albert Nakaji
Posts: 501
Joined: Fri Mar 22, 2013 8:43 pm

Re: Molasses and honey

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Postby Albert Nakaji »

Actually I'm now tempted to go out and do a few experiments to see the results on plant size and growth.

Please do and let us know what you discover.

My thinking is that supplementing with sugar through foliar application may be helpful for plants that need to be revived because of dysfunctional roots (root rot). Of course, foliar feeding with fertilizer and trace elements will help that too, but a sugar boost can't hurt (I think).

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cricketerry
Posts: 1980
Joined: Wed Mar 20, 2013 5:03 am
Location: Somerset, England, UK..

Re: Molasses and honey

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Postby cricketerry »

Albert, l would be worried that the sugar solution would attract unwanted mould growth on the plant and attract pests such as ants. I would only try it on a small scale.

Terry

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PreSam
Posts: 60
Joined: Fri Mar 29, 2013 12:27 am
Location: Calicut, Kerala, India

Re: Molasses and honey

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Postby PreSam »

I have been using a concoction made of sardines and jaggery(concentrated cane syrup = molasses + crystals) for over a year now with good results. I however refrain from using it during the monsoons as i had been advised against using anything organic when it is constantly wet. It does not attract ants and when used every week keeps mites at bay.

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Albert Nakaji
Posts: 501
Joined: Fri Mar 22, 2013 8:43 pm

Re: Molasses and honey

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Postby Albert Nakaji »

What kind of changes have you seen after using this?

PreSam wrote:I have been using a concoction made of sardines and jaggery(concentrated cane syrup = molasses + crystals) for over a year now with good results. I however refrain from using it during the monsoons as i had been advised against using anything organic when it is constantly wet. It does not attract ants and when used every week keeps mites at bay.

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MrCym
Posts: 14104
Joined: Tue Mar 19, 2013 11:37 pm

Re: Molasses and honey

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Postby MrCym »

He's now known as "The Cat Man"!!

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Molasses and honey - NewHorizonOrchids.com (2025)

FAQs

Is banana water good for orchids? ›

Banana residue will be used to fertilize orchids. The water portion can be used immediately or poured into a bottle and kept cold for gradual use. - 1 liter of banana and water mixture can be added with 4 liters of clean water to supplement nutrients to orchids.

What is the best orchid fertilizer? ›

Answer. The NYBG Senior Curator of Orchids says it's best to use a balanced fertilizer such as 20-20-20 in powder form to supply all the primary nutrients needed for flowering plants.

How often should I use molasses on my plants? ›

These are the most common tips for applying molasses to your soil: For every 1,000 square feet, use 1/2 cup liquid molasses. When applying to individual plants, mix two tablespoons of molasses per gallon of water. Apply every two weeks.

What is the best homemade fungicide for orchids? ›

You can also steep cinnamon sticks in hot water over night to make a mild fungicide. Use the “cinnamon tea” in a spray bottle to treat mild fungus issues. This simple treatment can also reduce fungi growth among your orchids such as mushrooms.

Do coffee grounds help orchids? ›

While coffee grounds are a fantastic addition to your compost, the nature of their decomposition is not effective for most orchids. In addition, they cause rapid decomposition of orchid potting bark, creating an environment that is primed for root rot. It is best to save those grounds for other plants.

What does cinnamon water do for orchids? ›

The basis of this idea comes from the fact that cinnamon does indeed have positive uses in orchid care. It's specifically used in preventing fungal and bacterial infection from entering open tissues and foliage wounds.

What does milk do for orchids? ›

Milk contains nitrogen-building protein that your orchids require. Feed the plants by mixing one part of milk to four parts of water. Use this every two weeks. Used tea bags, which are high in nitrogen, are especially good for orchids.

Is boiled egg water good for orchids? ›

A: Your orchid loves egg water because it can get extra calcium and potassium from the eggshells. You can feed it a spoonful of crushed eggshells diluted in water. Or, use water, in which eggshells have been boiled. But remember to limit this natural fertilization method to only 2-3 times a year.

What is the secret to orchids? ›

Orchids like bright, indirect light. Cool morning sun is best, so choose an east- or north-facing window, if possible. Supplement natural light with grow lights. A mix of both types of light increases blooms.

Is Miracle-Gro for orchids good? ›

Miracle-Gro® Water Soluble Orchid Food is a great way to nurture orchids and other acid-loving plants. It gives plants a deep, rich leaf color, beautiful blooms, and strong roots. Apply it every 2 weeks during active growth periods and every 4 weeks during rest periods.

When should you not fertilize orchids? ›

When to Skip the Fertilizer. As noted above, you will observe periods when the orchid plant goes dormant. During this resting period, you will not see any flowers, roots, or leaf growth. This signals the need to take a break from fertilizing your orchid, and if the orchid goes dormant, cut back on watering as well.

What to feed orchids to bloom? ›

Orchids need to be fed regularly. Growers suggest using a "balanced" fertilizer such as 20-20-20 that includes all "necessary trace elements." Regardless of the fertilizer formulation you choose to use, it should contain little or no urea.

Should I use molasses during flowering? ›

While molasses can be beneficial throughout your cannabis plant's life cycle, its application during the late flowering stage can be particularly advantageous.

How do you spray molasses on plants? ›

The greater amount of microbial activity in the soil, the healthier plants will be. Add molasses at a rate of 1 to 3 tablespoons (14-44 ml.) to 1 gallon (3.5 L.) of fertilizer for best results. Molasses can also be added to water and sprayed on plant leaves or poured on the soil.

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