5 Kitchen Wastes That Work As Fertiliser For Plants

May 21, 2024, 04:00 IST

Heena Sharma

Compost is well-known as ‘black gold’ as it is replete with organic matter and nutrients that aid in healthy plant growth, acting as a natural fertiliser. Here are 5 kitchen scraps to use as fertiliser for your home:

1. Egg Shells

Egg shells are composed mostly of calcium carbonate, one of the basic components needed for plant development. They also provide magnesium, iron, potassium, and phosphorus to the soil.

2. Fruit Peels

Instead of throwing the peel of fruits like bananas and oranges away, put them in the compost bin or straight into your garden. These waste organic peels can become natural fertiliser, and reduce the need for synthetic fertilisers.

3. Cooking Water

Don’t throw the water away when you boil or steam your vegetables and eggs next time. This nutritious water can be used for watering the plants after cooling it down.

4. Chilli Leftovers

Chilli peppers possess natural properties effective in repelling insects. Leftovers from the chilli can be ground and their mixture with water sprayed on the plants will keep pests at bay.

5. Coffee Grounds

Coffee grounds have high nitrogen content and help create compost with organic matter that improves the ability of soil to hold water. It’s best to add coffee grounds instead of whole beans to compost.

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