Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced gardener, there are always new ways to keep your plants healthy. With just a few everyday household items, you can enrich your soil, deter pests, and grow a more sustainable garden. Here are some practical garden hacks to make your gardening routine easier and greener.
Coffee Grounds as a Soil Conditioner
For coffee enthusiasts, used coffee grounds can do wonders in the garden. Rich in nitrogen, coffee grounds are particularly beneficial for acid-loving plants like roses, blueberries, and rhododendrons. Spread them around the plant base to improve soil texture and attract earthworms. Just be sure to use sparingly to avoid too much acidity in the soil.
Eggshells to Add Calcium
Eggshells are high in calcium, essential for healthy plant growth. Crushed eggshells around calcium-loving plants such as tomatoes, peppers, and beans can help prevent issues like blossom end rot. Add them to your compost or mix them into the soil to make the most of their benefits.
Banana Peels as Natural Fertiliser
Banana peels are packed with potassium and magnesium, which can enhance plant health. Place peels a few inches below the soil around the roots of plants like roses and fruiting plants. Alternatively, soak banana peels in water for a few days to create a "banana tea," a nutrient-rich liquid perfect for watering plants.
Cinnamon to Prevent Mould and Fungus
Cinnamon acts as a natural antifungal and can help prevent mould on seedlings and indoor plants. Lightly sprinkle it on the soil surface to protect your plants from mould in damp conditions. Additionally, cinnamon deters ants, making it a versatile gardening staple.
Baking Soda to Tackle Mildew
Baking soda is a simple solution for preventing powdery mildew on plants like courgettes, roses, and cucumbers. Mix a tablespoon of baking soda with a litre of water and add a few drops of mild washing-up liquid to create a natural fungicidal spray. Use it sparingly to avoid altering soil pH.
Vinegar as an Eco-Friendly Weed Killer
Vinegar is an effective natural weed killer, though it’s non-selective and will damage any plant it touches. Use it carefully, applying directly to weeds in pathways or driveway cracks for a chemical-free solution to unwanted growth.
Epsom Salt for Magnesium-Rich Plants
Epsom salt is rich in magnesium and sulfate, which benefits plants like tomatoes, peppers, and roses. Dissolve a tablespoon in a litre of water and apply monthly to support healthy, green foliage and strong flowering.
Companion Planting for Natural Pest Control
Companion planting helps reduce pests by pairing plants that benefit each other. Marigolds deter aphids, while basil next to tomatoes enhances growth and keeps pests away. This natural method creates a balanced ecosystem, reducing the need for chemical pesticides.
Mulching for Moisture Retention and Weed Control
Mulching with organic materials such as bark, leaves, or grass clippings conserves moisture, suppresses weeds, and improves soil quality. A layer of mulch helps regulate soil temperature, keeping roots cool in summer and insulated in winter.
Rainwater Collection for a Sustainable Garden
Rainwater collection is an excellent way to conserve water and provide plants with chemical-free hydration. Set up a water butt to capture rain from your roof, creating a sustainable and cost-effective water source for your garden.
With these simple garden hacks, you can make the most of household items to keep your plants healthy and thriving, all while reducing waste. Happy gardening!