Are you tired of expensive artificial fertilizers that promise miracles but end up disappointing? What if we told you that you already have everything you need for healthy, strong plants at home? Kitchen scraps that you would otherwise throw away can become a secret weapon for your garden or houseplants! These are homemade natural fertilizers!
From banana peels to coffee grounds – natural fertilizers They are not only environmentally friendly, but also surprisingly effective. Check out these 12 simple yet powerful tricks that will propel your plants to greater heights!
Great natural fertilizers that you probably already have at home!
1. Bananas – a potassium bomb for strong plants
Bananas are not only delicious, but their peels are a great natural fertilizer. The potassium in them helps plants develop strong roots and healthy leaves. You can bury the peels directly into the soil or soak them in water and use as a liquid fertilizer. If you cut them into smaller pieces, they will break down faster and release nutrients.
How to use them?
- Cut the fresh peels into smaller pieces and bury them in the soil near the roots.
- Banana tea: soak the peels in water (ratio of 1 peel to 1 liter of water), let stand for 24 hours, then water the plants with this liquid.
2. Coffee grounds – ideal for plants that love acidic soil
Coffee grounds are rich in nitrogen, which promotes green plant growth. If you have roses, hydrangeas, blueberries, or azaleas, treat them to this natural goodness. Sprinkle dried coffee grounds evenly over the soil or mix them with water and use for watering.
How to use it?
- Sprinkle dry coffee grounds evenly over the soil.
- Mix it with water (1 tablespoon per liter) and use for watering.
3. Eggshells – a natural source of calcium
If your plants are susceptible to calcium deficiency (e.g. tomatoes, peppers or zucchini), strengthen them with eggshellsSprinkle crushed shells around plants or soak them in water and use as a liquid fertilizer after a few days. The calcium will help prevent diseases such as fruit rot.
How to use them?
- Sprinkle crushed shells on the soil around the plants.
- Soak them in water (1 handful of shells per 1 liter of water) and after a few days use as liquid fertilizer.
4. Epsom salt – for lush greenery and strong flowers
Epsom salt contains magnesium and sulfur, which improve the absorption of nutrients from the soil. Dissolve a teaspoon of salt in a liter of water and water the plants once a month. This is especially beneficial for tomatoes, peppers, and roses, as it encourages flowering and stronger growth.
How to use them?
- Dissolve 1 teaspoon in 1 liter of water and water the plants once a month.
- Sprinkle a small amount of salt directly onto the soil around the plants.
5. Rice water – don’t throw away this natural nutrient liquid!
The water left over from washing rice contains starches and minerals that feed beneficial bacteria in the soil. Watering your plants with it improves soil structure and speeds up nutrient absorption. It's an easy way to feed your plants without any extra cost! Best for: Houseplants and vegetable gardens.
How to use them?
- Simply use the water left over after washing the rice to water your plants.
6. Aquarium water – a hidden source of natural nutrients
If you have an aquarium at home, use its water as a liquid fertilizer. This water is rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and other organic substances that promote plant growth. It is only important that it does not contain chemicals or salts. Best for: all types of plants, especially houseplants and vegetables.
How to use them?
- Use it for watering, but only if it does not contain chemicals or salts.
7. Wood ash – powerful, but only useful in small amounts
Wood ash contains potassium and calcium, which help strengthen plants. But be careful – use it sparingly, as too much ash can raise the pH of the soil and make it less suitable for some plants. Best for: Fruit trees, vegetable gardens (except potatoes and blueberries).
How to use them?
- Sprinkle a thin layer of ash around the plants.
- Mix it with compost to enrich the soil.
8. Gelatin – the hidden power of protein
Gelatin contains nitrogen, which is essential for growing strong, green leaves. Dissolve one teaspoon of gelatin in a liter of water and water your plants occasionally. This is a great trick for houseplants that need an extra boost. Best for: Houseplants, especially ferns and philodendrons.
How to use them?
- Dissolve 1 teaspoon of gelatin in 1 liter of water and water the plants with this mixture once a month.
9. Milk – more than just a source of calcium for humans
Milk contains calcium and protein, which help plants grow and prevent disease. Mix milk with water in a 1:3 ratio and use it to water your plants. This will help prevent mold problems and strengthen the leaf structure. Best for: tomatoes, roses, cucumbers.
How to use them?
- Mix milk and water in a 1:3 ratio and use as fertilizer.
- You can spray it on the leaves to protect against mildew.
10. Seaweed – natural growth hormones for accelerated growth
Seaweed is rich in minerals and growth hormones that promote root development. After rinsing, chop it up and mix it with soil or soak it in water and use it as a liquid fertilizer. Best for: All plants, especially vegetable gardens.
How to use them?
- Rinse fresh seaweed, chop it and mix it with the soil.
- Grind dried algae into powder and use as fertilizer.
11. Vegetable scraps – a soup that enriches the soil
Instead of throwing away the water you used to cook your vegetables, save it to water your plants. It contains vitamins and minerals that will improve the health of your plants. Just make sure it doesn't contain salt or fat! Suitable for all types of plants.
How to use it?
- Let it cool and use it to water your plants.
- Make sure it doesn't contain salt!
12. Herbal teas – relaxation for you and the plants
Chamomile, nettle, or dandelion teas are great for strengthening plants. Simply brew the tea, cool it, and use it to water plants. It helps protect plants from disease and encourages their growth. Best for: Garden and houseplants.
How to use them?
- Make strong tea, let it cool, and water the plants with it.
- It helps protect against diseases and strengthens plants.
Your plants will be grateful!
Why waste money on artificial fertilizers, but what if you already have all-natural solutions in your home? Try these tricks and watch your plants become stronger, greener, and more resilient. Which homemade fertilizer will you try first?
