How to boost plant growth with banana peels
What's the story
Often discarded, banana peels are a treasure of natural fertilizer for your potted plants. They are loaded with potassium, phosphorus, and calcium, which are essential for the health and growth of the plants. Adding banana peels in your garden routine can give you healthier plants without any chemical fertilizers. Here's how you can use banana peels to boost the growth of your potted plants effectively.
Composting
Create a nutrient-rich compost
You can also add banana peels to your compost bins/piles to enrich them with nutrients. As they decompose, they release potassium and other minerals that promote the plant's health. To use them the right way, cut the peels into small pieces before adding them to the compost. It will accelerate decomposition and ensure the nutrients are evenly distributed throughout the compost.
Fertilizer tea
Make a banana peel fertilizer tea
Making a banana peel fertilizer tea is super easy and works wonders for your potted plants. Soak chopped banana peels in water for two days, so that the nutrients are released into the liquid. Use this nutrient-rich water to water your plants once every week or two. The potassium content strengthens the stems of the plants and promotes flowering.
Soil amendment
Direct application in soil
For an instant nutrient boost, bury small pieces of banana peel directly into the soil of your potted plants. They decompose naturally over time, releasing essential minerals right into the root zone of your plants. Just ensure you cover them well with soil to keep pests away, giving a direct and efficient nutrient source.
Powdered fertilizer
Dry and grind for powdered fertilizer
Drying and grinding banana peels into a fine powder makes for an easy-to-use fertilizer option for potted plants. Spread this powder lightly over the soil surface, or mix it with potting soil before planting new seeds or seedlings. The powdered form allows for slow nutrient release as it integrates with existing soil components.