Do your balcony plants struggle to bloom and appear lackluster? Don’t worry, we have a natural remedy that you won’t be able to live without!
When it comes to feeding plants, we often think of expensive commercial fertilizers filled with chemicals. But there’s a hidden treasure in our kitchen that can transform into a powerful natural fertilizer: onion peels. Let’s discover how you can use them to fertilize your plants in a simple, budget-friendly, and natural way.
Onion peels for blooming balcony plants
Did you know that onion peels, which are typically discarded as food waste, actually contain essential nutrients and compounds that are beneficial for the growth of your plants? In this article, we’ll explore how to make a homemade fertilizer using onion peels to nourish your plants and promote lush growth.
Onion peels are rich in nutrients and compounds that can greatly improve the health of your plants on the balcony. They provide important nutrients like potassium, phosphorus, and calcium, which are vital for plant growth and development. Moreover, these food leftovers enrich the soil with organic matter, improving its structure and enhancing its ability to retain moisture.
But that’s not all! Onion peels also have antifungal properties that can protect your plants from fungal diseases. Additionally, their pungent smell acts as a natural insect repellent, keeping your plants safe from unwanted attacks.
Making the fertilizer with onion peels
The key ingredient is, of course, onion peels. Instead of throwing them away while cooking, set them aside. It’s best to use organic onions to avoid any unwanted pesticides. Once you’ve accumulated a sufficient amount of onion peels, it’s time to macerate them.
Take the collected onion peels and place them in a blender or food mixer. Add a little water and blend until you achieve a paste-like consistency. Water helps extract the nutrients from the peels. Next, you need to dilute the obtained mixture. The recommended ratio is 1 part onion peel solution to 5 parts water. Adjust the dilution according to your plants’ specific needs.
Once the solution is diluted, it’s time to apply it to your plants. You can either pour it directly at the base of the plants or use a sprayer to distribute it over the leaves. Be careful not to apply too much to avoid the risk of burns.
When to apply the fertilizer
You can apply the onion peel fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the growing season of your plants. However, it’s advisable to closely observe your plants and adjust the frequency of application according to their specific needs.
Alternatively, you can prepare a decoction of onion peels by boiling them in water for about 20 minutes. After cooling, you can use the decoction as a fertilizer for your plants.
Keep in mind to use only the onion peels and not the whole bulbs, as the bulbs can damage the roots of your plants. It’s also recommended to avoid using onion peel fertilizer on sensitive plants such as orchids or acidophilic plants.
Onion peels are often wasted in the kitchen, but they can be transformed into a natural and beneficial fertilizer for your plants. They are rich in essential nutrients and beneficial compounds that promote healthy growth, improve soil health, and protect plants from diseases and insects.
Try using this homemade fertilizer, and you’ll witness the benefits of having lush and prosperous plants. Not only will you save money on commercial fertilizers, but you’ll also contribute to creating a healthier and more sustainable environment for both your plants and the world around us.
