Citrus peels are often discarded as waste, but they can be transformed into valuable homemade fertilizers! Not only do they enrich your soil, but they also help reduce waste and promote sustainability. Here are three practical examples to get you started on using citrus peels effectively in your garden.
Creating a rich compost is a fantastic way to nourish your plants, and citrus peels can be a great addition. Composting citrus peels provides essential nutrients like nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus, which are vital for plant growth. This method is particularly useful for those with a compost bin or pile.
Start by collecting your citrus peels. You can use peels from oranges, lemons, limes, or grapefruits. Chop the peels into smaller pieces to speed up decomposition. Add these chopped peels to your compost bin along with other organic materials like kitchen scraps, yard waste, and dry leaves. Make sure to balance green materials (like fresh peels and vegetable scraps) with brown materials (like dried leaves and cardboard) for optimal composting.
In a few weeks to a few months, your compost will break down and turn into a dark, crumbly mixture rich in nutrients. Use this organic fertilizer to enrich your garden soil or as a top dressing for your plants.
Notes: Citrus peels can attract pests, so make sure to balance them with plenty of other compost materials. Avoid adding too many peels at once, as their acidity might affect the composting process.
If you prefer a quick and easy way to nourish your plants, consider making a citrus peel fertilizer tea. This method allows you to extract nutrients from the peels and deliver them directly to your plants.
To make citrus peel fertilizer tea, start by collecting peels from your favorite citrus fruits. Fill a large jar or container with about 2 cups of chopped peels and cover them with water. Let the mixture steep for 24 to 48 hours. After steeping, strain the liquid into another container, discarding the solid peels.
Your citrus peel tea is now ready to use! Dilute it with more water (1:1 ratio) before pouring it onto the soil around your plants. This nutrient-rich liquid will provide a quick boost, making it perfect for indoor plants or a garden with nutrient-deficient soil.
Notes: You can customize your tea by adding other organic materials like banana peels or used coffee grounds for an extra nutrient boost. Store any leftover tea in the fridge and use it within a week.
Using citrus peels as mulch is an excellent way to suppress weeds, retain moisture, and add nutrients to your garden. This method is particularly useful in flower beds or around trees and shrubs.
Begin by collecting and drying citrus peels. You can do this by placing them in a sunny spot or using a dehydrator. Once the peels are dry and brittle, chop them into smaller pieces or leave them whole, depending on your preference. Spread a layer of dried citrus peels around your plants, about 2 to 3 inches thick.
As the peels decompose, they will release nutrients into the soil while also helping to retain moisture and suppress weeds. The citrus scent can also deter pests, making it a win-win for your garden!
Notes: Citrus peels can take time to break down, so be patient! You can periodically refresh the mulch with new peels or mix in other organic materials like straw or wood chips for added benefits.