We’ve heard of so many natural fertilisers, but these might come as a shock to everyone – simple ingredients that we would normally pour down the drain on a daily basis
This tip will have your garden thanking you.(Image: Getty Images)
For garden lovers, finding a fertiliser that actually works can be tough. Some are too weak, leaving your plants stunted. Others are way too strong, making us over-fertilise and damage the roots. But the secret to the perfect fertiliser?
It’s simple, go organic and natural. Not only does this help us avoid consuming harmful synthetic toxins, but it also protects the beneficial bugs we have a love-hate relationship with.
And with the warmer spring days finally here, now’s the perfect time to give your garden a boost – before the summer heatwave hits or the cold, dreadful days return.
There are loads of natural ingredients we use daily that can easily be transformed into powerful organic fertilisers for our plants. It’s a smart way to cut down on waste and make the most of what we already have at home. Not only will you save money on store-bought fertilisers, but you’ll also help reduce food waste by repurposing items in a sustainable way.
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The two household leftovers will transform your garden(Image: Getty Images/Cavan Images RF)
Now we’ve nailed down the importance of the right fertilisers, let’s delve into the good ones – every day ingredients that can transform your garden, but would usually end up in the bin.
Rice water
Now, this one might surprise you, but the water left over from cooking rice is a hidden gem. Instead of pouring it down the drain, save it! It’s full of natural nutrients like starch and nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium (NPK) – all key for healthy plant growth. NPK ensures that plants absorb the necessary nutrients they need to thrive.
Rice water contains NPK – essentials for your garden(Image: Getty Images)
Each one plays a part, nitrogen boosts leafy growth – just be careful not to overdo it or you’ll end up with only leaves and no actual fruit or vegetables. Phosphorus supports strong roots and seed development and Potassium is great for encouraging fruiting and flowers in your plants. The best part is rice water has these nutrients in gentle amounts, so it’s hard to over fertilise.
But a key thing, don’t add salt to the water – it’s harmful to plants, also make sure the water is fresh and completely cooled down.
Pasta Water
We’re sure this won’t come as too much of a surprise, after rice water. They are both similar, containing starch, which is beneficial to feed your plants.
But the key for this, if it looks too cloudy, just dilute it a bit. This gives you more fertiliser to work with and lowers the risk of overfeeding.
Pasta water is similar to rice water containing starch(Image: Getty Images)
It’s shocking how these basic leftovers have been sitting right under our noses while we stayed unaware of their benefits. Give them a try – it’s better than letting that water go to waste.
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