A lush, blooming garden doesn’t always require expensive fertilizers. Nature provides us with a number of household items that, when buried in the garden, can transform the soil into a nutrient-rich haven for plants. Here are seven natural products that can do wonders for the health and vitality of your garden:
1. Kitchen waste
Turn kitchen waste into a blessing for your garden. Vegetable peels, leftover vegetables, mushroom scraps, and even banana peels serve as excellent natural fertilizers. These organic remains break down over time, attracting earthworms and enriching the soil with essential nutrients.
2. Eggshells
Save those eggshells! These calcium-rich peels take time to fully decompose, but when crushed and added to the soil, they gradually release calcium, which benefits plants, especially calcium-loving plants like tomatoes.
3. Cardboard products
Toilet paper rolls, paper towel rolls, and boxes without stickers or tape are fantastic additions. Worms love cardboard, using it as shelter and helping to aerate the soil, which aids the decomposition process.
4. Stale bread
Surprisingly, stale bread also serves its purpose in the garden. Its moisture-absorbing properties and tendency to promote mold and fungi make it an attractive meal for worms and contribute to an organic fertilizer.
5. Coffee grounds
Coffee grounds are naturally neutral, improve moisture retention in the soil and decompose easily. Worms love the fungus that grows on them, speeding up their decomposition process.
6. Grasschnitt
Grass clippings are rich in nitrogen and provide an excellent source of this important nutrient for your garden. Make sure they are free of weed seeds and chemicals to prevent unwanted growth.
7. Dead/fallen leaves
Fall leaves, readily available and free, add organic matter to the soil. Use a lawnmower to quickly collect them to contribute to the overall health of the soil in your garden.
While these things can do wonders for maintaining your garden, it is equally important to know what not to bury in your garden:
- Wood chips and pine needles : Unless you are aiming for acidic soil, you should avoid mixing these into the soil as they can alter the pH of the soil.
- Peanut shells, dairy products, meat products, and eggs : These items attract unwanted pests and slow decomposition. Choose to compost them separately to avoid foul smells and maintain a healthy compost pile.
By incorporating these natural and cost-effective methods, you will promote a thriving, nutrient-rich environment in your garden. However, remember to maintain a balance and always be mindful of what you put into your garden soil to ensure optimal plant growth and vitality.