@dropofrain, there is nothing "magic" about the 20-20-20 formula. It is just a balanced formula of N, P, K and happens to be orchid fertilizer. That's what I have on hand. You can use anything that is a fairly balanced fertilizer. Heck, even plain ole water-soluble Miracle-Gro, which is 24-8-16 is OK. When plants are starting to grow, they need elements that support green growth, stem growth, and root growth. Thus the balanced fertilizer. Keep in mind that all my potting media also has Osmacote in it, so there is available fertilizer at every watering. The Osmacote is also a balanced formula, 15-9-12. I also supplement my fertilizer with magnesium, aka Epson Salts, at a rate of 2 tbs per gallon. I use this every couple of months, spring/summer, or basically, when I think about it. I do pretty much nothing on a rigid schedule.
