Top 8 Homemade Organic Liquid Fertilizers (Fertilisers) for Plants or Gardens
Today, we’re delving into the world of fertilizers or you can say, going to talk about homemade plant food fertilizers and how they can supercharge your plant’s growth, especially during the winter season, these DIY plant Fertilizers can help. We explore some fantastic, easy-to-make fertilizers (Fertilisers) that will enhance your plant’s overall health and vitality. From homemade tea leaf fertilizer to banana peel concoctions and more. We have solutions for different types of plants, and they’re all easy to make. Let’s get started!
What is organic fertilizer and what is it made of?
Organic fertilizer is a type of plant food that comes from natural sources, like compost (decayed plant and food matter), animal manure (such as cow or chicken droppings), and sometimes even treated household sewage. Unlike synthetic fertilizers made in a lab, organic fertilizers are all-natural.
What are its benefits?
- Nutrient-Rich: Organic fertilizers provide essential nutrients to plants, like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which are crucial for their growth.
- Soil Health: They improve the structure of the soil, making it better at holding water and allowing air to reach plant roots. This promotes healthier root systems.
- Slow Release: Organic fertilizers release nutrients slowly over time, providing a steady supply to plants and reducing the risk of nutrient runoff into water sources.
- Microbial Activity: They encourage the growth of beneficial microorganisms in the soil, which contribute to overall soil health.
- Environmental Sustainability: Using organic fertilizers is more environmentally friendly than synthetic alternatives, as they rely on renewable resources and promote sustainable farming practices.
- Reduced Chemical Exposure: Organic fertilizers typically contain fewer chemicals compared to synthetic ones, reducing the risk of harmful chemical residues in plants and the environment.
- Less Soil Degradation: Continuous use of organic fertilizers can improve soil fertility over time, reducing the need for constant additions and minimizing soil degradation.
You can also read about Best Tips for Beginners to Start Gardening
Types of Fertilizers for Houseplants
There are various types of fertilizers available for houseplants, each with its benefits and characteristics. The three main categories of fertilizers are organic, conventional, and slow-release.
- Organic Fertilizers: These fertilizers are derived from natural sources and contain organic matter. They provide a slow and steady release of nutrients, promoting long-term soil health and reducing the risk of over-fertilization.
- Conventional Fertilizers: These fertilizers are synthetic and contain specific ratios of nutrients. They provide quick-release nutrients, giving your plants an immediate boost. However, they also carry a higher risk of overfertilization if used improperly.
- Slow-Release Fertilizers: These fertilizers come in the form of pellets or granules and release nutrients gradually over an extended period of time. They offer convenience and reduce the frequency of fertilization, making them suitable for busy plant enthusiasts.
When choosing a fertilizer, consider the specific needs of your houseplants and their growing environment. Organic fertilizers are generally considered more environmentally friendly, while conventional fertilizers offer a quick nutrient fix. Slow-release fertilizers are ideal for those who want a fuss-free fertilizing routine.
| Fertilizer Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Organic Fertilizers | Slow and steady release of nutrients Improves soil health Reduces the risk of overfertilization | Slower results compared to synthetic fertilizers |
| Conventional Fertilizers | Immediate nutrient boost Quick results | Higher risk of overfertilization May have negative environmental impact if not used properly |
| Slow-Release Fertilizers | Convenient and low-maintenance Reduced frequency of fertilization | Less control over nutrient release May not provide immediate results |
Top 8 Homemade Organic Liquid Fertilizers for Plants or Gardens
Waste Tea Leaf and Coffee Organic Fertilizer for Lush Growth:
Our first recipe is like a magic potion for your plants. It’s a simple mixture that’s ideal for acid-loving plants. You can easily find the main ingredient in your kitchen – tea leaves. We all love our daily tea or coffee, but did you know that the leftover tea bags and coffee grounds can be magical ingredients for your garden and plants?
How to make Used Tea Bags and Coffee Organic Fertilizers (Fertilisers):
- Collect used tea bags and coffee grounds in a container.
- Rinse them with water until milk content is removed from them, let them dry in the sun for a day or two, and store them in a dry container.
How to use Used Tea Bags and Coffee fertilizer
- Every 15 days, sprinkle about 4-5 teaspoons of dried tea on the soil around your plants. This will make them happy and healthy.
- To make liquid fertilizer from dried tea leaves, submerge them in water for 24 hours until the water changes color, then use it to feed your plants.
This fertilizer works wonders for plants like the rose, which will reward you with beautiful, vibrant flowers. It is one of the Super Plant Foods, that stop annoying weeds from growing, Keep Pests Away, and Great Potting Mix.
Banana Peel Organic Fertilizers (Fertilisers) for Abundant Blooms:
Bananas are a staple in many households, and their peels can be used to create a powerful fertilizer. Don’t throw away the peels! They can be turned into fantastic plant food. Here’s how:
How to Make and Use Banana Peel Organic Liquid Fertilizers (Fertilisers)
- Put Them in the Garden: Simply put banana peels in your garden; they break down slowly, providing nutrients to your plants over time.
- Make Banana Peel Liquid Fertilizer: First, gather a container, water, and chopped banana peels. Fill the container with water, submerging the peels. Let them soak for a week or two, away from direct sunlight for optimal nutrient absorption. Finally, dilute one part of the banana peel water with five parts of regular water and use it to water your plants. This homemade fertilizer can boost your plants’ health and growth.
- Make Slow-Release Fertilizer: This method provides a long-lasting nutrient boost for your plants. To create a nutrient-rich banana peel powder, start by drying banana peels in the sun until they become dry and black. Next, grind the dried peels into a fine powder using a blender or a specialized tool. You can then incorporate this powdered form into your garden soil or planting holes to deliver slow-release nutrition to your plants, fostering healthy growth
You can use this fertilizer in your garden to ensure large, beautiful flowers and healthy plant growth.
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Effective eggshells Organic Fertilizers (Fertilisers):
This fertilizer is a game-changer for Adenium and Bougainvillea plants, keeping them healthy and vibrant. Here’s how to make it:
How to make eggshells Fertilizer
- Collect and rinse eggshells. Allow the shells to air dry to prevent smelling.
- Crush them into small pieces.
How to Use Eggshells Fertilizer
- Mix with soil, compost, or use as a top dressing.
- Make Eggshell Liquid Fertilizer: Mix crushed eggshells with water and let it sit for 2-3 days until the water changes color, creating a nutrient-rich liquid. Apply this to Adenium and Bougainvillea for improved growth.
Potent Cow Dung Organic Fertilizers (Fertilisers)for All Seasons:
Cow dung fertilizer is a powerhouse, perfect for all types of plants. Cow dung fertilizer, also known as cow manure or cow dung compost, is a natural and organic fertilizer that is made from the waste produced by cows.
How to prepare and use cow dung Liquid fertilizer:
To make cow dung tea, collect fresh cow dung and place it in a container. Add water in a 1:5 ratio (cow dung to water), and let it ferment for a few days to a week, stirring occasionally. Dilute it with water (1:10 or 1:20 ratio) based on strength and plant needs, and use it for watering, taking care not to over-fertilize to avoid harming the plants.
This versatile fertilizer can be used in any season, except during extreme heat. It’s a go-to option for a lush garden.
Onion peel Organic fertilizer
Onion peel fertilizer is an organic and sustainable way to repurpose kitchen waste and improve soil quality in your garden. Here’s how to make and use onion peel fertilizer:
Making Onion Peel Fertilizer:
- Collect Onion Peels: Save the outer skins and peels of onions as you use them in your kitchen. Store them in a cool, dry place to prevent mold or spoilage.
- Dry the Peels: Spread the onion peels on a tray or in the sun to dry them thoroughly. This step is essential to prevent rotting and bad odors when using the peels.
- Crush or Grind: Once dried, crush or grind the onion peels into a fine powder or small pieces. A blender or food processor can be helpful for this.
Using Onion Peel Fertilizer:
- Sprinkle the crushed or powdered onion peels directly on the soil around your plants. It provides essential nutrients like potassium, sulfur, and phosphorus.
- Onion Peel Liquid Fertilizer: To make onion peel liquid fertilizer, collect onion peels from your kitchen. Place them in a non-metallic container, cover them with water (2-3 times the peel volume), and stir. Ferment for 5-7 days, then strain. Dilute (1:10) and water the soil around plants, avoiding leaves. It recycles kitchen waste and nourishes plants.
You can also read about How to Grow Herbs Indoors All Year
Wood ash fertilizer
Wood ash is rich in essential nutrients, primarily potassium, but it also contains small amounts of calcium, magnesium, and various trace minerals.
How to Make and Use Wood Ash Fertilizer:
Collect ash from hardwoods, avoiding treated or painted wood. In a non-metallic container, mix ashes with water (2-3 times the volume) and cover. After a week of fermentation, strain the liquid, dilute it (1:10 with water), and use it to water your plants, avoiding contact with leaves.
Mustard Cake Fertilizer for Overall Plant Health:
Mustard cake fertilizer is an excellent option to enhance overall plant development and growth. Mustard cake fertilizer, also known as mustard seed meal. Mustard cake can be used in several ways for plant growth and soil improvement.
How to use Mustard Cake Fertilizer:
- Mustard cake can be directly spread on the soil and tilled in, enhancing fertility and structure. It also serves as an effective mulch, suppressing weeds and conserving moisture. In composting, its nitrogen content accelerates decomposition.
- Mustard Cake Liquid Fertilizer: Soak mustard cake in water for 20-24 hours. The water will turn yellow, signifying the fertilizer is ready. Apply it to your plants for improved health and growth.
This fertilizer contains essential micronutrients that your plants need. Mustard cake can be used once or twice a year. A general guideline for soil application is around 1-2 pounds per 10 square feet.
Boosting Your Plants with Chemical Fertilizer (DAP):
Sometimes, plants need a quick nutrient boost, and that’s where chemical fertilizers (Fertilisers) come in. Here’s how to prepare one:
- Mix chemical fertilizer granules in lukewarm or normal water.
- The water will change color, indicating it’s ready.
- Apply this liquid fertilizer to your plants, like Allamanda, to encourage flowering.
Chemical fertilizers (Fertilisers) can provide a rapid nutrient surge to your plants, leading to more blooms.
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