When it comes to watering our plants, water is often our first reflex. However, there are other eco-friendly and easy-to-use options that can benefit the growth and health of our plants.
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Watering plants with tea
Tea can be beneficial for our plants. Stock Adobe
Recycling cooled or poorly dosed tea can be beneficial for our plants, as it has many properties similar to those of fertilizer. For centuries, tea has been recognized for its virtues and ease of use as a natural fertilizer.
This is because tea leaves are composed of natural organic matter that proves to be excellent nutrients for plants.
| They contain: | |
|---|---|
| Nitrogen | which promotes leaf development |
| Phosphorus | that contributes to root formation and flowering |
| Potassium | that builds disease resistance |
With the remaining tea brewed in the teapot, used bags or wet leaves can also be recycled. Place tea leaves or bags at the bottom of your flower pots or in the ground, in addition to your usual fertilizer. This will allow plants to benefit from the natural decomposition of tea, gradually releasing its nutrients into the soil and thus nourishing them in a natural and sustainable way.
Here is a selection of plants that enjoy tea:
- Hydrangeas
- Rubber plant
- Spider plant
- Oxalis
- Ferns
- Philodendron
- Easter Lilies
- African violets
- Begonias (some varieties)
Read alsoThese plants that help digestion
Watering plants with milk
Milk is an effective natural fertilizer that can complement watering. Stock Adobe
It is possible to water your plants with milk, an effective natural fertilizer that can supplement the water. In addition to stimulating growth and improving plant health, milk prevents many diseases.
Lack of calcium in plants can lead to apical rot of flowers, especially in zucchini, tomatoes and peppers. Not only does milk remedy this deficiency but it also improves the overall health of the plant and increases crop yields. Thanks to its natural richness in microorganisms, proteins, vitamin B and beneficial sugars, milk provides essential nutrients. The enzymes present in milk inhibit the development of mold and bacteria, thus promoting the balance of beneficial microbes in the soil.
In addition to its nutritional benefits, milk also plays an important role in preventing powdery mildew and leaf mosaic, common diseases in many plants. Thanks to its antifungal properties, it acts as a protective agent against these problems.
Milk also helps fight aphids, those small pests that can damage your plants. Finally, it plays a role in regulating soil pH, which promotes an optimal environment for plant growth.
You can use milk to:
- Corn salad
- Zucchini
- Cucumbers
- Pumpkins
- Strawberries
- Roses
- Rhododendrons
- Delphiniums
- Begonias
Good to know
Milk should be used in moderation, it is an excellent supplement but it does not replace watering.
Watering plants with coffee
Coffee contains a wide variety of beneficial components for plants. Stock Adobe
Along with tea and milk, coffee is one of the foods in the kitchen that can be easily recycled for gardening. Just like tea, it is possible to recycle its end of cups to bring natural fertilizer to plants.
Coffee contains a wide variety of beneficial components for plants. Potassium and magnesium are especially important for promoting leaf and stem growth.
Coffee grounds can also play a role in the fight against unwanted insects. Some species, such as slugs and midges, are repelled by the smell of coffee.
Although coffee can be beneficial for plants, it is essential to use it in moderation as well. Some elements, such as caffeine, can be toxic in large quantities. So be careful not to overload your plants by using coffee grounds excessively.
Here is a selection of plants to water with coffee:
- Amaryllis
- Hyacinth
- African violets
- Hydrangea
- Azaleas
- Bardenia
Good to know
Not all plants react in the same way to coffee. Some species prefer a more acidic soil, while others may be sensitive to caffeine. Learn about the specific needs of your plants before using coffee.
Water the plants with the cooking water
Cooking water contains essential nutrients. Stock Adobe
Often overlooked, cooking water can be used effectively to water plants. Using this inexpensive method, you can supplement the nutritional needs of your plants in a natural way while reducing water waste in your home.
Cooking water contains essential nutrients, such as vitamins and minerals, from the food that has been cooked in it. For example, rice cooking water is rich in B vitamins, potassium, magnesium, iron and zinc. Similarly, cooked potatoes and pasta release starch, while vegetables and eggs leave much of their micronutrients in it.
By watering your plants with cooking water, you allow the nutrients it contains to be released into the soil, thus providing additional nutrients to your plants. This method also allows you to fertilize your plants with natural and environmentally friendly products.
It is important to note that salty cooking water can be harmful to plant growth. Thus, it is recommended to salt or season your food only after cooking, in order to preserve the quality of the cooking water used for watering your plants.
Natural and soft, cooking water is suitable for many plants, including:
- Tomatoes
- Peppers
- Roses
- Orchid
- Aloe vera
- Snake plant
Good to know
The salt and boiling water mixture is an excellent weed killer.
Read alsoCan you weed your garden with boiling water?
Tea, milk, coffee or cooking water can complement certain plants in the house and garden in an original way. It is also a good option to save water.
However, it is important to note that when using substances other than water to water your plants, it is essential not to overdo it. An excess of nutrients can be just as damaging as a lack.
In addition, certain types of plants may have specific needs, so it is best to learn about the specific recommendations for each plant from a professional.