Gardeners looking to help their plants thrive during summer heatwaves are being urged to try mushroom water instead of the popular banana peel alternative. According to experts from Urban Farm-It, soaking mushrooms in water creates a nutrient-rich liquid that acts as a natural tonic for soil, providing essential vitamins and minerals that nourish plants.
What Is Mushroom Water and How Does It Work?
Mushroom water is simply the liquid left after soaking mushrooms in water. The experts explain that it carries organic compounds and minerals from the mushrooms that can benefit plant growth. Unlike strong chemical fertilisers, this method is gentle and less likely to overwhelm plants, slowly releasing moisture and nutrients into the soil.
“Mushroom water is simply the liquid left after soaking mushrooms in water. It could act as a natural tonic for your soil, carrying organic compounds and minerals from the mushrooms that nourishes plants,” said the experts from Urban Farm-It.
Benefits Over Banana Water and Chemical Fertilisers
While many gardeners make banana water to support their plants, mushroom water offers a more balanced option. The experts note that because mushroom water is super mild, it reduces the risk of nutrient burn, a common problem with stronger fertilisers. The soaking process releases small amounts of mycelial matter into the water, which can encourage fungal activity in the soil, improving water retention and helping plants take up moisture more efficiently.
“Instead, it could slowly release moisture in the soil, supporting hydration while reducing the risk of nutrient burn. When mushrooms are soaked, small amounts of their mycelial matter may enter the water. Once poured onto the soil, this could encourage fungal activity that improves water retention and helps plants take up moisture more efficiently,” they added.
How to Make and Use Mushroom Water
Making mushroom water at home is straightforward and requires no special equipment. Start by chopping a handful of fresh or dried mushrooms and soaking them in water for 12 to 24 hours. The infusion should then be poured at the base of the plants, allowing it to seep gradually into the soil. It is important to avoid getting the water on foliage, as this can damage the plant or lead to fungal issues.
Mushroom water provides nutrients such as potassium, phosphorus, and small amounts of amino acids. It can be used on any garden plants, including houseplants, which often need extra vitamins during the summer months.
Complementary Gardening Practices
The experts recommend using mushroom water alongside other good gardening practices for best results. “Mulching soil, watering early in the day, and protecting young plants with covers could all work alongside mushroom water to give gardens extra resilience,” they said.
With summer temperatures rising, this natural, gentle tonic offers a simple way to keep plants hydrated and nourished without the risk of over-fertilisation.
