I love my plants, and have spent a fortune on them, so it’s no surprise that I am always on the look out for natural and cost-effective solutions to keep them heathy and thriving. According to the internet, banana water, an organic fertiliser that’s gaining popularity on social media for its ability to nourish plants and promote growth, is actually an extremely cheap and effective way to keep your plants healthy and happy.
But what exactly is banana water, and how can it benefit your garden or indoor jungle? Let’s explore the science and steps behind this natural fertiliser.
What is Banana Water?
Banana water is a simple, homemade plant fertiliser made by soaking banana peels in water. Bananas are rich in essential nutrients like potassium, phosphorus, calcium, and magnesium, all of which are beneficial for plant growth. When banana peels are soaked in water, these nutrients leach out into the water, creating a nutrient-rich solution that can be used to water plants.
Benefits of Banana Water for Plants
- Rich in Potassium: Potassium is vital for overall plant health. It helps strengthen plant stems, improves drought resistance, and enhances the overall quality of fruits and flowers.
- Boosts Flowering and Fruiting: The phosphorus in banana water supports blooming and fruit production, making it ideal for flowering plants and fruit-bearing trees.
- Improves Soil Health: Calcium and magnesium in banana water help improve soil structure and promote healthy root development.
- Eco-Friendly: Using banana water reduces kitchen waste and provides a chemical-free alternative to synthetic fertilisers.
How to Make Banana Water
Creating banana water is a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Ingredients:
- 2-3 banana peels
- 1 litre of water
Instructions:
- Prepare the Peels: Start by cutting the banana peels into small pieces. This increases the surface area, allowing more nutrients to leach into the water.
- Soak the Peels: Place the cut banana peels in a jar or container and cover them with 1 liter of water. Let the mixture sit for 24-48 hours. Avoid soaking for longer periods as it can lead to fermentation and unpleasant odours.
- Strain the Solution: After soaking, strain the banana peels from the water. The resulting liquid is your banana water, ready to be used as a fertiliser.
How to Use Banana Water
Banana water can be used in several ways to benefit your plants:
- Watering: Use banana water to directly water the soil of your houseplants or garden. Ensure even distribution and avoid overwatering.
- Foliar Spray: Pour banana water into a spray bottle and mist the leaves of your plants. This method is especially effective for plants that absorb nutrients through their leaves.
- Composting: Add the strained banana peels to your compost pile for an additional nutrient boost.
Tips for Best Results
- Frequency: Use banana water once a week to provide a steady supply of nutrients without overloading the soil.
- Dilution: If you notice any signs of over-fertilisation, such as leaf burn, dilute the banana water with more water before applying it again.
- Variety: Experiment with other organic fertilisers like coffee grounds or eggshells to provide a balanced diet for your plants.
Banana water is a sustainable, nutrient-rich solution that can enhance the growth and health of your plants. By leveraging the natural nutrients in banana peels, you can reduce waste and provide your plants with the essential elements they need to thrive. Whether you’re nurturing a small collection of houseplants or cultivating a lush garden, banana water is a simple and effective way to keep your plants happy and healthy.
By incorporating banana water into your gardening routine, you’ll not only enjoy flourishing plants but also contribute to a more sustainable and eco-friendly gardening practice. So next time you eat a banana, remember to save the peels and give your plants a natural boost!