As winter approaches, caring for plants becomes more challenging. Shorter days mean less sunlight, and dropping temperatures require adjustments in plant care. To keep plants healthy, gardeners must ensure they receive the right amount of water—neither too much nor too little.
A simple kitchen scrap, often discarded during meal preparation, can be turned into an effective homemade liquid fertilizer. Potato peels are packed with essential nutrients like phosphorus, magnesium, and potassium, which are crucial for plant health. While some gardeners may compost their potato scraps, others may not have that option. Fortunately, there are creative ways to utilize potato peels without needing a garden.
A TikTok user recently shared a method for transforming discarded potato peels into a nutrient-rich liquid plant feed. “You will never throw away your potato peels again once you discover what you can actually do with them,” she stated.
Making Potato Peel Fertilizer
To create this fertilizer, simply follow these steps:
1. Find an empty jar and clean it thoroughly.
2. Fill the jar with water and potato peels.
Seal the jar and place it in sunlight for one to two days. For stronger results, some users recommend letting it sit for three to five days.
Once opened, the mixture may have a strong smell due to fermentation, which helps release nutrients beneficial for plants. It is advised to dilute the potato water before using it on potted plants or in the garden. This homemade fertilizer can significantly boost plant growth.
The TikTok video demonstrating this method has garnered over 502,000 views and thousands of likes. Viewers have expressed gratitude, with one commenting, “Wow, thank you,” and another saying, “Excellent… thanks for sharing.”
Banana Peels as an Alternative
In addition to potato peels, banana peels can also enhance plant growth. They are rich in potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus. Similar to potato peels, banana peels can be composted or added directly to the soil. Some users have suggested combining potato peels with banana skins in water to maximize the nutritional benefits for plants.
As winter sets in, these easy and resourceful tips can help gardeners keep their indoor and outdoor plants thriving.
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