Unlock the secrets: Boost your houseplants with gelatin fertilizer
Fertilizing houseplants is one way to care for them properly. We don't have to rely solely on store-bought products to nourish plants. An inexpensive and effective preparation from just two ingredients can accomplish this task perfectly.
Gelatin is a popular culinary ingredient primarily used in making jellies and desserts. However, not everyone knows that its properties can be successfully applied in cultivating house and garden plants. What does gelatin affect, and how can you use it to fertilize houseplants? Here are a few tips.
Why use fertilizer made from gelatin?
Using gelatin fertilizer offers many advantages. First and foremost, it's an excellent source of nitrogen, amino acids, and minerals that support plant growth. Additionally, it improves soil structure, making it more permeable, which allows plant roots better access to water. An undeniable benefit of this fertilizer is that it is easy to prepare, inexpensive, and eco-friendly.
How to make fertilizer from gelatin?
To prepare gelatin fertilizer, you'll need a tablespoon of gelatin, about 1 cup of hot water, and a bottle with a capacity of approximately 1 quart. First, pour the gelatin into a bowl, add the hot water, and stir vigorously. Then, pour the prepared solution into the bottle and fill it with cold water to reach full capacity.
Using this homemade fertilizer is as easy as preparing it. Simply water the plants with the solution every two weeks during the growing season.
Which plants benefit from gelatin fertilizer?
Gelatin fertilizer is effective for many plant species. It's especially recommended for peace lilies, snake plants, ZZ plants, monstera, ferns, and ficus. The leaves of these plants will achieve a more intense color and become more resistant to environmental factors.
Additionally, gelatin fertilizer can be used for leafy vegetables like spinach, lettuce, or arugula, as well as ornamental perennials like hostas and ornamental grasses.
Gelatin fertilizer is perfect for plants that need rejuvenation. Thanks to its nitrogen content, it accelerates regeneration and strengthens plants. It's important to remember, however, that not all plants can be nourished with gelatin fertilizer. It's not recommended for use on cacti or certain herbs. Moreover, you should avoid using it on plants currently in bloom.
What to remember when using gelatin fertilizer?
As with any fertilizer, gelatin fertilizer can be harmful if overused. Watering too frequently can lead to soil salinization. Thus, it is crucial to adhere to the recommended frequency and use the solution wisely, according to the specific needs of each plant.
