Tag Archives: liquid fertilizer

Onion peel fertilizer

5 Tips How to make Onion Peel Fertilizer at Home

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Making an organic homemade fertilizer with onion peels is easy and odor-free. It is easy to store and works well on all types of plants weather it is outdoor, indoor or vegetable plants. It has no adverse effects when applied correctly.

Answers to common questions about suitability, growth, side effects, application, and the creation process are covered in this article.

What is Onion Peel Fertilizer?

 

Onion Peel Fertilizer is a natural and organic fertilizer made from onion peels. This homemade fertilizer is created by utilizing the nutrient-rich properties found in onion skins.

onion skin

 

The process involves extracting beneficial compounds from the peels to formulate a solution that can enhance plant growth and health.

How to make Onion Peel Fertilizer at Home

 

1. Container: Use a plastic, glass, or jug. Fill it with dry onion peels, avoiding wet pulp to prevent odor and fungus.

onion skin in jar

Note 1:

  • Do not use wet pulp of onions because it has the potential to rot, emit unpleasant odours, and may attract fungus.
  • Additionally, a tonic made with wet pulp cannot be stored effectively.

Note 2:

  • Choosing dry peels ensures that the tonic avoids problems like attracting ants or introducing fungus to the soil when applied later on.

2. Soaking: Add water to soak the peels. Cover and place it in a cool area (not in direct sunlight) for 24 hours.

Onion peel fertilizer water

3. Purple Solution: After 24 hours, a purple solution forms, suitable for seedlings. Mix 2-3 spoons with water and apply to seedlings.

5 Tips How to make Onion Peel Fertilizer at Home
Onion Peel Liquid Fertilizer

onion peel fertilizer in seedlings

4. Stir daily for 4 days: Stir daily for 4 days to create a dark tonic for leafy plants.

  • After leaving it for 4 days and stirring every day, you will have a strong, dark tonic ready for leafy plants.
  • Strain it if necessary and mix it with three times its volume in water before giving it to the plants.

Strain onion peel fertilizer in seedlings

5. Soaking the pulp in water for 7 days: Soak pulp for 7 days for a dark brown tonic.

  • After 7 days, strain it well and do not keep it for more days.
  • Mix the strained tonic with three times the amount of clean water and use it to feed fruiting and flowering plants.

Also, read: Top Organic Liquid Fertilizers for Plants

 

Precautions need to be followed before giving fertilizer

 

1. Strain Properly: Make sure no onion pulp gets into the soil.

  • Always strain the solution well before giving it to the plant.

2. Hoe Soil: Before applying the onion peel tonic, make sure to thoroughly hoe the soil.

3. Do not give fertilizer in wet Soil: Ensure that the soil is dry before applying any liquid fertilizer, as excessively wet soil may hinder absorption.

4. Avoid giving during extreme temperature: Give the tonic in the early morning or evening.

  • Avoid giving it during sun exposure or in the afternoon.
  • Providing fertilizer to hot soil during sunny periods can scorch the plants.

When to Use Onion Peel Fertilizer

 

You can use the onion peel tonic in every season—summer, winter, or monsoon, but avoid giving it during the plant’s dormant period.

1. Summer Dormancy: Some plants like Tulsi (holy basil), curry leaves, hibiscus, mint, and Mexican mint, etc. thrive in summer but experience dormancy in winter.

  • Don’t use onion tonic on these plants during winter.

2. Winter Dormancy: During peak summer, plants like roses and chrysanthemums, usually associated with winter, may go in dormancy period.

  • Avoid using onion peel fertilizer on them in summer.

3. Year-round Use: Besides specific dormancy periods, you can give onion peel to plants year-round, whether indoors or outdoors plants. 

How to use Onion Peel Liquid Fertilizer

 

1. Outdoor Plants: Give once in a month.

  • For flowering or fruiting plants in their peak stages (e.g., roses in winter or hibiscus in summer), use it twice a month.

2. Indoor Plants: Feed once every 2 months with onion peel fertilizer.

3. Spraying Option: Dilute the tonic with four times water and spray on plants every 15 days.

  • While the visible difference might not be huge, there are no side effects.

Note:

  • While onion peel provides nutrients, it is good to use other fertilizers for a balanced nutrient profile. Avoid using other fertilizers, Epsom salt, tonic, seaweed, banana peel, or similar substances 10 days before or after giving onion peel fertilizer.

How to store the Onion peel tonic

 

store onion peel tonic

1. Use an Airtight Container: Put any leftover tonic in a sealed container and keep it in a cool place, away from bright sunlight. But don’t store it in the fridge.

2. Shelf Life: Since it is homemade without preservatives, how long it lasts depends on the temperature and weather.

  • In hot conditions, it might last 3-4 days; in colder weather, it can last 10-15 days. On average, expect about 7-8 days.

3. Check Regularly: Every 2-3 days, open the container and give it a shake.

  • Before using it, give it a sniff. If it smells bad, don’t use it. If it is odorless, it’s safe for your plants.

Well! Adding Onion Peel liquid fertilizer in your gardening routine can yield noticeable improvements. Explore the positive effects and admire the positive changes in your plants.

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vermicompost tea

How to make Vermicompost tea? Benefits & Uses

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Vermicompost is an organic and most powerful compost made up of earthworms. Today, Vermicompost is widely used by many gardeners and farmers in gardening activities.

Vermicompost is also known as earthworm manure. It is a natural process in which earthworms consume the remains of organic matter such as plants and fruit and converts them into nutrient-rich manure in the form of feces. This natural process of composting is beneficial in improving the quality of the soil, making it more suitable for plant growth.

vermicompost manure
Vermicompost manure

What is ‘tea’ in gardening?

  • Any solid manure, when diluted in water to make liquid fertilizer, is commonly known as compost tea in gardening.
  • Examples include cow dung manure tea, kitchen manure tea, and vermicompost tea. The methods of making tea from these fertilizers may vary.

How to make Vermicompost tea?

Vermicompost tea
Vermicompost tea
  • Take good quality vermicompost in the bucket.
  • Add lots of water to the bucket. After some time the manure may expand, so keep extra water so that it dissolves well.
  • Cover the bucket with a lid and place it in a cool place, shaded area, away from direct sunlight.
  • Water extracts the nutrients of vermicompost when it starts mixing with water.
  • Before using the solution (tea), strain it through a cloth or fine mesh to remove any compost particles that may clog your spray bottle.
vermicompost tea
strain vermicompost tea before using

Important note:

Soaked vermicompost can be used in two ways.

  • It can be used after 24 hours of soaking.
  • It can also be used after 1 week of soaking.

 Both solutions have different benefits and can be used in different ways.

1. Benefits of using Vermicompost tea after 24 hours of soaking

Steps to use it:

  • Sieve the solution and dilute the obtained tea with water in a 1:1 ratio.
  • Fill the diluted tea in a spray bottle for multipurpose use.

You can use this diluted vermicompost tea in the following ways:

  • Spray it on small seedlings and the leaves of plants.
  • Use it as a mild nourishing tonic for cuttings.
  • Apply it to plants during times of stress, such as after pruning, repotting, or when propagating new plants.

Vermicompost tea is a quick and effective fertilizer that can be made in 24 hours.

spray vermicompost tea
you can spray liquid tonic in plants
  • It can be sprayed on plants every 15 days in the evening.
  • This treatment promotes healthy growth and makes leaves shiny.

2. Benefits of using Vermicompost tea after 1 week of soaking

If compost is soaked for 1 week in water, it will result in a more concentrated, dark-colored solution. While soaking vermicompost in water, it is important to stir the solution occasionally to ensure proper mixing of the compost with water.

  • Strong fertilizer: Vermicompost tea obtained by this method is indeed a strong fertilizer due to its higher concentration.

Steps to use it:

  • Take this tea (there’s no need to sieve it at this point) and dilute it with water at a ratio of 1 part tea to 4 parts water.
  • Give this diluted tea to your plants gradually until it starts to flow out from the bottom hole of the container.
  • The compost residue left after separating the tea can be incorporated into the soil as a soil conditioner.

Vermicompost tea can be applied to all types of plants

vermicompost tea
liquid tonic can be given to all types of plants

This vermicompost tea is enriched with nutrients and can be given to all types of plants, including indoor and outdoor plants, flowering and non-flowering plants, and succulents.

a) For indoor plants – when using only vermicompost tea, apply it once every 45 to 60 days.

vermicompost tea in indoor plants
liquid tonic can also be given to indoor plants

b) For outdoor plants – when using only vermicompost tea, apply it every 20 to 25 days.

Note:

  • Ensure that no other fertilizer is applied to the plants for 10 days both before and after using vermicompost tea.

Why is Vermicompost Tea recommended instead of solid form?

Vermicompost tea is often recommended over vermicompost (solid form) for many reasons:

1. Vermicompost (s0lid form) cannot be used as a spray for plants. 

2. For small seedlings, a liquid tonic is recommended. A liquid form of nutrition is suitable for small seedlings.

seedlings
liquid tonic is easy to give in seedlings

3. Additionally, for cuttings and Lecca balls, vermicompost (solid form) cannot be added directly. It is preferable to use liquid tea filled in a spray bottle.

4. Some plants require regular nutrition every 15-20 days for optimal growth. Adding vermicompost (solid form) again and again every 15 days may disrupt soil structure. Therefore vermicompost tea is a more suitable option.

5. A small amount of compost can produce significant amounts of tea, which can effectively nourish all plants. In contrast, solid manure, if available in limited quantities, may not be sufficient for all plants.

6. When adding fertilizer or manure to plants, it is also important to water the soil. This helps the soil absorb nutrients from the compost, which is a slower process than providing a nutrient-rich tonic (like compost tea) directly.

At last:

  • Liquid tonics significantly enhance plant growth, and vermicompost tea is particularly effective when used as a nutrient source for plants.

Also read:

1. Benefits of Seaweed Fertilizer

2. How to make Cow Dung Fertilizer

Happy Gardening !!!

How to give fertilizers to plants? Basic Tips

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Giving fertilizers to plants is an important aspect of gardening that provides the essential nutrients required for healthy plant growth. Just as humans and other animals require food for survival and growth, plants also require nutrients for growth and production. In the absence of these nutrients, the growth of plants stops and the yield decreases.

For proper nourishment and growth, plants require soil, water, sunlight, fertilizers, as well as human love and care. It’s essential to use these resources effectively and efficiently. This article will address four essential questions (3 W and 1 H- Why, What, When and How) related to feeding your plants:

1. Why should you feed your plants?

2. What should you feed them?

3. When should you feed them?

4. How should you feed them?

Classification of fertilizers for Outdoor plants

Organic fertilizers are rich in organic matter, which helps to improve soil structure, retain moisture, and promote the growth of beneficial microorganisms in the soil. They also release nutrients slowly, providing a steady supply of nutrients to the plants over time.

Some of the fertilizers are mentioned below:

  • Compost
  • Neem cake
  • Mustard cake
  • Epsom salt
  • Banana peel liquid fertilizer
  • Cow dung liquid fertilizer
  • Seaweed fertilizer

1. Compost for Outdoor plants

  • When making a soil mixture for outdoor plants, compost is a preferred ingredient.
  • Compost is a natural fertilizer that is rich in nutrients and can be used to improve soil health.
  • It makes the soil porous and also retains water for a longer duration.
  • If the soil in existing plants is becoming clayey or tight, adding compost can help to improve the soil quality.
  • You can use any type of compost, including cow dung, vermicompost, leaf compost, or kitchen compost.

2. Neem Cake fertilizer for outdoor plants 

  • Neem cake, a byproduct of neem seed oil extraction, can be used as a natural pesticide and fungicide to prevent attacks by insects, viruses, bacteria, or fungi in soil.
  • It helps to improve soil quality by adding essential nutrients, enhancing soil structure, and increasing water retention.
  • It can be added to the soil mixture in small amounts as it is very potent.

We can add neem cake powder to the soil mixture as well as we can make neem cake liquid fertilizers and give them once a month.

You can read the detailed article here:

Neem Cake Fertilizer at Home

 

3. Mustard cake fertilizer 

  • The mustard cake fertilizer is a very strong fertilizer and should be used with caution.
  • It is recommended to apply it during the winter season when the weather is cooler and the soil is more receptive to nutrients.
  • However, it can also be used during summers, but it is not recommended during extremely hot weather when the temperature is near 40 ℃.
  • We can add a little bit of mustard cake powder in soil-mixture as well as we can give mustard cake liquid fertilizer to plants once a month.
  • It is important to dilute mustard cake properly in a handsome amount of water before applying it to plants, as it can be too strong for plants if used directly.

You can read the detailed article here:

Mustard Cake Fertilizer

 

4. Epsom Salt (Magnesium Sulfate) for outdoor plants

  • In cases where plants are not growing properly despite receiving adequate fertilizers, water, and sunlight, Epsom salt can be considered as a good supplement.
  • We can either directly add Epsom salt to the soil or make a dilute solution and give it in the soil or can make a foliar spray.
  • We have to give Epsom salt only when it is needed.

It is important to use Epsom salt in moderation and always maintain a gap of at least 10 -12 days between the two fertilizers to avoid over-nutrients to the plants.

  • This will allow the plants to absorb the nutrients from each fertilizer effectively and prevent any negative effects on plant growth.

You can read the detailed article here:

Epsom Salt for plants: benefits & uses

5. Banana Peel fertilizer for outdoor plants

 

  • Banana peel fertilizer can act as a catalyst for plants during the flowering or fruiting stage, or in cases where the plant is not blooming.
  • The high levels of Potassium and Phosphorus in banana peels can help to promote the growth and development of flowers and fruits, while also providing other essential nutrients to the plants.
  • The best is to make Banana peel liquid fertilizer and give it to the soil. Otherwise, you can add Banana peel to the Kitchen compost as raw banana peels may attract pests and insects.
  • Banana peel liquid fertilizer should be given once every fifteen days.

Must read article on 
Banana Peel Liquid Fertilizer

6. Cow dung liquid fertilizer 

  • Cow Dung liquid fertilizer is a widely used and popular form of organic fertilizer.
  • It is rich in nutrients like Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium, which are essential for plant growth. Additionally, it contains microorganisms that help in the breakdown of organic matter in the soil and improve soil fertility.
  • It can be given to any outdoor as well as indoor plants once a month.

It is important to ensure that the cow dung compost tea has been properly aged or composted before using it, as fresh cow manure can contain high levels of ammonia that can harm plants.

You can read the detailed article here:

How to make Cow dung fertilizer for plants

7. Seaweed fertilizer

  • Seaweed fertilizer is a natural and organic fertilizer made from seaweed extract.
  • It is rich in micro and macronutrients.
  • Seaweed fertilizer can be used on a wide range of plants, including vegetables, fruits, herbs, flowers, indoor plants, plant cuttings in water, etc.
  • It can be applied in the form of granules as well as liquid fertilizer.
  • We can do foliar spray, soil drench, or add directly to the growing medium of plants.
  • It can be given to any outdoor plants once a month.

You can read the detailed article here:

Seaweed Fertilizer: Benefits and Uses

Important points to note:

1. All the liquid fertilizers are endowed with balanced nutrients like NPK, Magnesium, Zinc, Calcium, and all other nutrients.

2. Rotation of the above-mentioned fertilizers is recommended every 20-25 days.

3. A deficiency of nutrients can be recovered in the plants but excess nutrition will damage the plant. So, even if you are giving any tonic or any supplement to plants always maintain the suggested time gap of at least 10-15 days.

4. Vegetable plants such as tomatoes, green chilies, brinjal, cabbage, bitter gourd, etc. should be fertilized with liquid fertilizers every 20 days.

5. For other outdoor plants, including both flowering and non-flowering ones like Tulsi (Holy basil) and Curry tree, etc. and Hibiscus, liquid fertilizer should be applied every 25 days.

Fertilizers for Indoor Plants 

  • It is important to select an appropriate fertilizer for indoor plants, as they have specific nutritional needs. A balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of Nitrogen, phosphorus, and Potassium as well as micronutrients is often recommended for indoor plants.
  • Indoor plants such as ZZ plants, Areca Palms, Syngoniums, Money plants, Anthurium, Snake plants, Peace lilies, etc. require nutrients approximately once every two months during their active growth period, typically in the spring and summer months.
  • Giving fertilizers to these plants during the dormant period in winter is generally not recommended, as they require less water and nutrients during this time.

Fertilizers:

  • Cow Dung fertilizer is the most suitable fertilizer for this category.
  • Mustard cake fertilizer can also be given to them once a year.
  • Seaweed fertilizer (granules/liquid fertilizer) can be given once in a 2 months gap.

Vegetable plants need water, sunlight, fertilizer, and everything in a maximal amount whereas indoor plants need minimal of everything.

Prioritize your plants and pick suitable fertilizer to nourish them.

Happy Gardening !!

banana peel fertilizer

FAQs on Banana Peel Fertilizer for Plants

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Banana Peel fertilizer serves as a superb organic fertilizer that you can effortlessly create in the comfort of your home. It offers a natural and budget-friendly method to supply plants with the vital nutrients necessary for robust growth and flourishing.

In this comprehensive article, we aim to answer some most common frequently asked questions (FAQs) and provide you with a better understanding of how Banana Peel fertilizers can enhance your plant growth. 

banana peel fertilizer

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Banana Peel Fertilizer

Qs. 1: What is banana peel fertilizer?

Ans: Banana peel fertilizer is a natural and organic fertilizer made from banana peels.

  • It is rich in nutrients like potassium, phosphorus, and calcium, which are beneficial for plant growth.

2. How do I make banana peel fertilizer at home?

Ans: To make banana peel fertilizer at home, you can chop or blend banana peels and mix them with water.

  • Let the mixture sit for a few days, then strain it to obtain a liquid fertilizer. You can dilute this liquid before using it on your plants.

3. What are the benefits of using banana peel fertilizer?

Ans: Banana peel fertilizer provides essential nutrients to plants, especially potassium.

It promotes flowering, fruiting, and overall plant health. It also helps improve soil structure and encourages microbial activity.

4. Can I use banana peel fertilizer for all types of plants?

banana peel liquid fertilizer

Ans: Yes, banana peel fertilizer is suitable for a wide range of plants, including vegetables, fruits, flowers, and houseplants.

  • However, it is particularly beneficial for plants that require higher levels of potassium.

Also, read:  How to make Banana Peel Fertilizer: Benefits & Uses..

5. How often should I apply banana peel fertilizer?

Ans: It is generally recommended to use banana peel fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.

  • Adjust the frequency based on the specific needs of your plants and the soil conditions.

6. Are there any plants that may not benefit from banana peel fertilizer?

Ans: While banana peel fertilizer is beneficial for most plants, some plants may have specific nutrient requirements that are not met by banana peels alone.

  • Always consider the specific needs of your plants and use additional fertilizers if necessary.

7. Can I use banana peel fertilizer for indoor plants?

Ans: Yes, banana peel fertilizer is suitable for indoor plants.

  • However, it’s essential to use it in moderation and dilute it properly to avoid over-fertilizing.

8. Are there any potential drawbacks to using banana peel fertilizer?

Ans: Banana peel fertilizer is generally safe and beneficial, but overusing it can lead to an imbalance of nutrients.

  • It is crucial to follow recommended application rates and not exceed them.

9. Can I use banana peels directly in the soil as a fertilizer?

Ans: While banana peels can be buried directly in the soil, it is more effective to break them down first.

  • Chopping or blending the peels and creating a liquid fertilizer allows for better nutrient absorption by the plants.

10.  Is banana peel fertilizer a sustainable and eco-friendly option?

Ans: Yes, banana peel fertilizer is considered eco-friendly as it utilizes kitchen waste and reduces the need for chemical fertilizers.

  • It is a sustainable way to recycle banana peels and improve soil health.

Remember to observe your plants and soil conditions, adjusting your fertilization practices accordingly.

Thanks

Happy reading!!

How to make Banana Peel Fertilizer: Benefits & Uses

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Benefits & Uses of Banana Peel Fertilizer for Plants

 

If you are fond of gardening, then banana peels will be of great use to your plants. The banana peel fertilizer is an excellent source of organic manure that can be easily made at home. It is a natural and cost-effective way to provide plants with the essential nutrients they need to grow and thrive.

 

Many people complain that despite taking all necessary care and measures for the plant, there are still irregularities in its growth. My plants are not flowering or the plant is healthy but flowers or fruits are not coming.

    • So, why is it happening, and what are the reasons behind this?
Hibiscus flower

The main reason for this is the lack of nutrients in your plant. This indicates two factors:

1. When fertilizer is provided to the roots, it is not efficiently distributed to other parts of the plant, such as the stem, leaves, branches, or buds.

2. Additionally, while plants produce their food in the form of starch in their leaves, it is possible for the food to remain in the leaves and not be distributed to other parts of the roots of the plant.

Note: Starch plays a crucial role in providing immunity to plants, especially for their roots.

The above two factors indicate that the “transportation system” of the plant is not working well which can be attributed to a lack of potassium.

  • Luckily, potassium is highly available in bananas and banana peels and can be used to improve the transportation system of the plant.
  • If in this condition, the plant is fed by banana peel fertilizer, then the problem would be resolved.
bananas rich source of potassium

Note:

    • Not only potassium but banana peels contain many other nutrients like calcium, magnesium, sulfur, and phosphorus, all of which are essential for plant growth and development.
    • Additionally, banana peels contain other micronutrients, such as zinc, copper, and iron, which are important for plant health.

How to make Banana peel fertilizer at home? 

There are many ways to make banana manure at home. Some of them are detailed here:

Method – 1

1. Chop the banana peels into small pieces.

small pieces of banana peels

 

2. Place them in a clean utensil and fill the water. Make sure the peels are properly dipped in the water.

banana peels in fresh water in bowl

3. Cover the container and keep it in a shaded area for 8-10 hours.

4. During this process, the remains of the banana pulp dissolve in the water.

5. After 10 hours, strain the water and dilute it with more water (using 7-8 times more water than the amount of fertilizer produced). Then, use the diluted mixture to feed your plants.

strain the banana pulp water

 

6. It is essential to sieve and dilute the fertilizer before using it on plants. Otherwise, the quantity of potassium would be much higher than the requirement, which can prevent the plant from absorbing other nutrients.

banana peel liquid fertilizer

Method – 2 (Banana peel fertilizer powder)

1. Cut the banana peels and dry them in the sun.

banana peels pieces

2. After 4 days, the peels will be completely dry, black, and crispy.

dry banana peel

3. Grind the dried peels into a fine powder and store it in a container.

banana peel powder

4. When required, dissolve the powder in water and use it to feed your plants.

5. Alternatively, you can sprinkle the banana peel powder on the top layer of soil and water the plant.

sprinkle the banana peel powder on the soil

6. The banana manure will decompose slowly in the soil, so avoid adding too much water. This method provides a slow-release fertilizer for your plants.

Method – 3

1. Take a banana peel and bury it in the soil of a potted plant.

banana peel in the soil

2. Do not add any additional water or moisture to the soil.

3. Over time, the banana peel will decompose and release its nutrients into the soil, making it more fertile for the plant to grow.

This method is a natural way to provide nutrients to your plants, but it may take longer for the banana peel to decompose and release its nutrients compared to other methods.

When to give Banana peel fertilizer?

 

1. Avoid using banana peel fertilizer on plants that are still small or in the growing stage because they require equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK) at that time.

In banana manure, the quantity of nitrogen is very low. It will lead to nutrient imbalance and plants might die due to a deficiency of nitrogen.

2. Always, give banana manure, when the plant is at the stage of flowering or fruiting.

 

3. While banana peel fertilizer can be used on all plants, it is important to rotate it with other fertilizers to maintain nutrient balance.

  • After applying banana peel fertilizer, wait for at least 20 days before using other fertilizers such as mustard cake or any other.
  • This will help ensure that the plants receive a balanced mix of nutrients to support their growth and development.

Important note:

1. Overwatering can spoil the plant, so it is important to only fertilize when the soil is completely dry. In addition, after fertilizing, water should only be given when the soil appears to be dry.

 

2. There are 17 essential nutrients that plants require for healthy growth. Supplements like potassium, nitrogen, and phosphorus i.e. NPK are needed in ample quantities to fulfill all the nutrient requirements.

 

So, fertilizers play a crucial role in the acute growth of plants.

==============================

So, get bananas, eat them to stay healthy, and use their peels to make organic fertilizer for your plants. This way, you can ensure that your plants get the nutrients they need to grow strong and healthy. By following the above important tips, you can help your plants thrive and enjoy the benefits of homegrown produce.

Happy gardening!!

FAQs on Cow Dung Fertilizer

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Cow dung fertilizer, also known as cow manure, holds a special place in gardening due to its rich nutrient content and soil-enhancing properties.

In this guide, we will address some frequently asked questions and provide insightful answers to help you make the most of this natural, eco-friendly fertilizer in your gardening endeavors.

Qs: 1 What is cow dung fertilizer?

Ans: Cow dung fertilizer, also known as cow manure or cow dung compost, is a natural and organic fertilizer made from cow excrement.

Qs: 2 What are the benefits of using cow dung fertilizer for plants?

Ans: It is beneficial for plants because it is rich in nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

It also improves

  • soil structure,
  • water retention, and
  • microbial activity,
  • plant growth and health.

Qs: 3 Can I use raw cow dung as a fertilizer?

cow-dung
raw cow-dung

Ans: No. Cow dung contains high levels of ammonia and salt, which can cause soil heating.

Qs: 4 Can I use fresh cow dung as a fertilizer?

Ans: Fresh cow dung can be too high in ammonia and harmful to plants if used directly.

    • It is best to decompose completely before applying it to your garden.

Qs: 5 Why should we decompose cow dung before giving it to plants?

cow dung decompose

Ans: Decomposing cow dung can reduce the risk of harmful bacteria and parasites that may be present in fresh dung. 

Qs: 6 Why is it important to dilute the liquid cow dung fertilizer before giving it to plants?

Ans: Diluting liquid cow dung fertilizer before application is essential to prevent nutrient imbalances, maintain plant health, reduce environmental impacts, and support soil microbial activity.

Qs: 7 How often can we give liquid cow dung fertilizer?

Ans: The frequency of application depends on the plant’s needs. 

  • During the growing season, you can give the solution twice a month at the gap of 15 days.
  • However, the specific frequency and amount of fertilizer you should apply may vary based on the type of plants, soil conditions, and the type of fertilizer being used.

Qs: 8 Can we give cow dung fertilizer to all types of plants?

hibiscus flower

Ans: Cow dung fertilizer is generally suitable for a wide range of plants, including vegetables, fruits, flowers, and ornamental plants.

  • However, it may not be ideal for plants that prefer acidic soil, as cow dung tends to raise soil pH. In such cases, you may need to mix it with other organic matter or use alternative fertilizers.

Qs: 9 Can we use cow dung fertilizers in all seasons? 

Ans: Yes. Cow dung fertilizers can be used in all seasons as it’s considered one of the best organic fertilizers.

Qs: 10 Can we store cow dung liquid fertilizer for a long time? 

Ans: Yes, you can generally store cow dung liquid fertilizer for up to 6 months if it’s stored properly in suitable conditions.

Qs: 11 From where can I collect cow dung for fertilizer?

cows in dairy farm

Ans: You can collect cow dung from a local dairy farm or from your own livestock if you have cows. 

Must read this article:

How to make Cow dung fertilizer at home?

Happy Gardening!

How to Make Cow Dung Fertilizer for Plants

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Plants are fed with different fertilizers to maintain the soil’s nutrients and minerals level. After a certain time, when the crop has grown suitably the quality and nutrient level of the soil starts depleting. By adding fertilizers, the productivity of crops can be increased and improved.

cow

In this article, we will discuss:

  • benefits of cow dung fertilizer,
  • why we should decompose cow dung fertilizer,
  • how to make cow dung fertilizer at home,
  • what precautions should be taken before using cow dung fertilizer.

Cow dung fertilizer is a type of organic fertilizer that can be easily made at home. It contains all the essential nutrients required by plants to grow and thrive. By using cow dung fertilizer, the soil’s quality can be maintained, and plant growth can be enhanced. The organic nature of cow dung fertilizer also makes it a safe and environmentally-friendly option for giving fertilizer to plants.

cow dung cake

Important note:

Do not add raw cow dung directly to the soil plants.

  • As cow dung contains high levels of ammonia and salt, which can cause soil heating.
  • Additionally, wet cow dung should also not be added directly, as it can lead to the growth of harmful bacteria in the soil, potentially harming the plant.

Benefits of Cow dung fertilizer

Cow dung fertilizer is rich in organic matter that helps in improving aeration and breaking down compacted soil.

All the elements like

  • nitrogen,
  • potassium,
  • phosphorus,
  • calcium,
  • magnesium,
  • sulfur,
  • iron,
  • manganese,
  • copper and
  • zinc, etc. are found in small amounts in cow dung fertilizer.

All these ingredients are key for the full-fledged growth of the plants.

cow dung fertilizer
    • This fertilizer maintains the soil moisture accurately and it is a habitat for earthworms also.
    • Earthworms do the loosening of the soil without affecting the plant and its growth.
    • In 1 gram of cow dung fertilizer, 300-500 crore microorganisms are present which makes the soil fertile.
    • It increases the water holding and water absorption capacity of the soil.
    • It improves the structure of heavy clay soils and light sandy soils.

Why should we decompose Cow dung/Cow dung cake?

Cow dung or cow dung cake needs to be decomposed completely before adding it to the soil. Decomposing cow dung has several benefits.

cow dung liquid fertilizer in process

When cows eat grass, chapattis, or anything else, it has carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins, fibers, or fats. All these nutrients go inside the stomach of cows, some of them get digested by the intestine but some of them do not get digested completely and come out as it is along with dung.

1. Fresh cow dung contains high levels of nitrogen and other nutrients, which can be too strong for some plants and can burn their roots.

2. Decomposition allows the nitrogen to break down into forms that are more easily absorbed by plants, making it a milder and more effective fertilizer.

3. Additionally, decomposing cow dung can reduce the risk of harmful bacteria and parasites that may be present in fresh dung.

Overall, decomposing cow dung before using it as fertilizer can result in more effective and safer use.

Let us start with the process of making cow dung fertilizer

How to make Cow dung liquid fertilizer at home?

cow dung liquid fertilizer

Here are the steps to make liquid cow dung fertilizer at home:

Step 1: Break down the cow dung cake into small pieces.

cow dung cake

Step 2: Soak the cow dung cake in water until it is completely submerged. Mix it well with a stick.

adding water in cow dung cake

Step 3: Cover the container and place it in a shaded area.

Step 4: After 3 days, the solution will turn into a dark brown color.

  • Mix it again with a stick.
  • You can add mustard cake as an optional ingredient.
cow dung liquid fertilizer
    • Stir the mixture with a stick every 3 days for the next 2 months.

Step 5: After 2 months, the solution will be fully fermented and turn into a dark brown color. Initially, it may have a strong odor, but this will disappear in the final product.

cow dung liquid fertilizer after 2 months

The liquid cow dung fertilizer is now ready, but it is a potent solution and needs to be diluted before application.

Step 6: Dilute one mug of cow dung solution with four mugs of water (1:4, cow dung solution: water) to make liquid cow dung fertilizer.

final result of cow dung liquid fertilizer

The solution can be stored for up to 6 months.

Precautions should be taken before giving liquid fertilizer to plants

    • Apply the liquid fertilizer only when the soil is dry.
    • Ensure that the solution is not applied too close to the stem, as it may damage the plant.
    • Use a light solution and apply it twice a month.
    • For small pots, use one mug of solution, and for larger pots, use two mugs.

This was all about “Liquid Cow Dung Fertilizer”.

Enjoy Planting !!

mustard cake fertilizer

How to make Mustard Cake Fertilizer: Benefits & Uses

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The mustard cake is an excellent eco-friendly organic fertilizer that offers numerous benefits for plant growth and soil nutrition.

Benefits of Mustard cake fertilizer

Mustard cake fertilizer has several benefits, including:

1. Provides nutrients:

  • Mustard cake is rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which are essential nutrients for plant growth. It has the potential to enhance the production capacity of plants.

2. Improves soil fertility:

  • The organic matter in the mustard cake helps improve soil fertility by increasing soil structure and water-holding capacity. It addresses nutrient deficiencies in the soil.

3. Environmentally friendly:

  • Mustard cake is an organic fertilizer and does not contain any harmful chemicals or synthetic ingredients.
  • It is a sustainable alternative to chemical fertilizers.

What is Mustard Cake?

mustard seeds

In the process of making mustard oil,

  • Mustard seeds are crushed in the machine.
  • After extracting the oil, the leftover material also called a ‘Khali’ or ‘Khal’ or ‘cake’ is obtained. This Khali is a mustard cake.
  • It is a high-protein supplement and can be used as an organic fertilizer for plants.

Natural source of NPK (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium). It is a natural source of NPK, with a typical ratio of 4-1-1 for nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

Why is mustard cake fertilizer important in gardening?

1.  It is a nitrogen-rich fertilizer.

  • Everybody is aware of the fact that all types of plants (outdoor, indoor, flowering, non-flowering, or vegetables ) need nitrogen in ample amounts.

Note:

  • A deficiency of nitrogen might spoil the plant.

Mustard cake

2. Protein is needed for the growth of the plant and chlorophyll is required for the photosynthesis process. For protein and chlorophyll, nitrogen plays an important role.

3. Enhanced plant growth:

  • Mustard cake fertilizer has proven to be very beneficial for many plants, especially vegetable plants. Growth of the plants gets enhanced at a notable pace after providing this fertilizer.

How to use Mustard Cake Fertilizer at home?

Mustard cake fertilizer is easily available in the market and can be purchased once and lasts for a longer period of time. There are two methods to use it.

1. Use mustard cake fertilizer in liquid form
  • Take a small amount of cake (break the big pieces into small pieces) and

mustard cake

  • dilute it with water

musatrd cake dilute

  • Cover the vessel and keep it undisturbed for 24 hours. Always make it in a little quantity as it is very dense by nature.

  • It will dissolve in the soil itself. So, do not keep it for more than 24 hours.

Note:

  • If it is too cold, then you can keep it for one to two days, but it should not be left for more than two days in water to decompose.
  • After 24 hours, the cake will have dissolved completely.

mustard cake liquid fertilizer

  • There will be some smell of mustard cake in this liquid fertilizer.
  • Dilute the mixture with 10 times more water, which means mixing 1 part of mustard cake liquid fertilizer with 10 parts of water.

mustard cake liquid fertilizer

  • After mixing very well with a mug or jug, you can give this fertilizer to the plants.
  • It will show results after 4-5 days on the plants and would last for a longer duration.

2. Use mustard cake in powder form

  • Grind the mustard cake into a powder using a grinder.
  • In the pot, remove the top layer of soil, sprinkle the mustard cake powder, and water the soil.

musatrd cake powder

  • Additionally, the powder can be incorporated into the soil mixture to enhance its fertility.

musatrd cake powder

Important points to keep in mind while using mustard cake fertilizer in plants:

1. Do not spray mustard cake liquid fertilizer on the leaves, recommended only for the soil.

2. This fertilizer locks the moisture in the soil. Feed the plant with this when the soil is dry.

3. After giving this, give water when the soil is completely dry.

4. Mustard cake fertilizer can be given to the plants at intervals of 20-25 days.

5. The mustard cake should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This will help to preserve the nutrients and prevent the cake from becoming rancid.

Use of Mustard Cake Fertilizer during Summer season:

The mustard cake should be applied during the growing season when the plants are actively growing and can benefit from the nutrients.

  • It’s also a good idea to avoid using it during hot, dry weather as it can burn the plants.
  • During summer months, large quantities of mustard cake should be avoided and when used, it should be diluted with additional water in its solution.

By keeping the above points in mind, you can use mustard cake fertilizer effectively to improve soil health and promote healthy plant growth.

Love plants !!

Make Your Own Garden!