In the cold season, most of our vegetable peels are simply thrown away, because the compost pile outside the window does not work in winter. But there is a little secret hidden in the kitchen that can completely change the rules of your indoor floriculture. What we normally think of as waste — potato, carrot or cucumber peels — can turn into a strong, completely natural and free source of fertilizer. Science has long proven that organic substances useful for plants are hidden exactly where we do not notice them. And in winter, this trick becomes a real salvation.
How to make fertilizer from potato and carrot peels
In the summer, it is clear where to put the skins of vegetables such as potatoes, carrots or cucumbers – they immediately go to the compost bin. And what to do in winter? Many housewives simply throw them in the garbage. However, they can be used as a valuable fertilizer for indoor flowers.
You may have already heard that banana peels can be used to make a potash that enriches the soil with potassium. The same can be done with vegetable peels. They enrich the soil with potassium, phosphorus, useful sugars and other nutrients.
What skins is it good for?
However, it is important to note that not all vegetable waste is suitable for making such a dressing. Best for:
- potato and carrot skins
- cucumber, zucchini, pumpkin skins
- apple peels
- onion skins
What can’t be used?
Strictly should not add to fertilizer:
- cabbage leaves,
- garlic,
- citrus peels,
- salted or pickled vegetable peels.
Such components can damage the soil or damage the root system.
How to make a decoction
Also, you cannot use the skins if they are already moldy — we only take fresh and clean vegetable waste. They should be put in a pot, pour 1 liter of water and boil for 10-15 minutes. After that, the decoction must be filtered and cooled to room temperature.
With this infusion, indoor plants can be watered once a week, replacing the usual watering. If you did not use all the decoction immediately, the rest can be poured on a flower bed in the yard or near a tree. The composition of the decoction can be changed – this way the plants will get different trace elements every time.
Such vegetable decoction not only nourishes the plants, but also improves the structure of the soil. The organic matter contained in the husks helps the soil to become looser, promotes root respiration and better water absorption. This is especially useful in winter, when plants experience a lack of light and are more sensitive to nutrient deficiencies. By using different vegetable peels, you can naturally replenish the soil with what it needs most at the time — without chemicals and without additional costs.
I am Jovita, one of the authors of Hitas.lt articles. I have loved to cook since I was a child and I am glad that my mother allowed me to experiment in the kitchen. Favorite dishes are, without a doubt, desserts. I also like to “spin” at home, so I try to provide readers with not only interesting recipes, but also useful tips for home cooking.
