Its all well and good. But the nutrients aren't readily available and require breakdown. As in nature this form of "fertilizing" still creates the issue of limiting nutrients that synthetic (and to an extent, even some of the organic stuff like seaweed extract) are designed to eliminate.

At the same time, they are adapted to limited nutrient situations so can grow just fine without synthetic fertilizers. The abundance of nutrients afforded the plant by fertilizers are really an added bonus.

And of course I will never criticize anyone for using a natural/composting approach. Just be careful that the composing of the leaves doesn't create an issue with water-logging the potting medium.

Potting mixes vary around the planet according to climate and local materials available.

An experiment without a control doesn't really tell you anything. Maybe the results are due to a better than average growing season.

I remember telling a Scientist that i was getting good results with my orchids using silica rock in the mix. He sniffed...."sand"...and, "did you run a trial".

This post was edited by arthurm on Wed, Nov 20, 13 at 0:55

Dear arthurm Sydney, NSW AUST
Dear terpguy 7

Your views accepted and appreciated. Thank You.

arthurm Sydney - I realize that my experiment is without a control.

terpguy 7- Composting of leaves does create water logging and rotting. However Scorpion orchid is a very hardy plant.