Gardeners looking to extend the blooming period of their winter annuals can turn to a common kitchen scrap: banana peels. TikTok gardening influencer Ish has shared a simple, natural method to boost flower vitality using banana-infused water, eliminating the need for chemical fertilisers.
The process involves chopping banana skins and soaking them in a jar of water for one to two days. Once the water turns brownish, it is ready to be poured onto plants, delivering a nutrient-rich treat. Ish explains that this can result in a longer flowering season, while the peels can be composted and the banana itself enjoyed as a snack.
Bananas are rich in potassium, which promotes vibrant flowers; phosphorus for strong roots; magnesium for photosynthesis; and calcium for healthy development. Gardening specialist Drew Swainston notes that potassium encourages fruiting and flowering, making banana peels an excellent fertiliser for ornamental plants and crops like tomatoes and peppers.
For those who prefer not to soak peels, an alternative method involves dehydrating them in an oven or air fryer at a gentle heat until crispy, then grinding into a fine powder. This homemade fertiliser can be dusted onto soil or stored in an airtight container for later use.
