Peace lilies are a British household favourite, loved for their glossy green leaves and pretty white flowers. Although they’re fairly low maintenance, homemade feeds can often help prompt repeat blooms.
These plants don’t require excessive nutrients, so it’s crucial to fertilise them just once monthly throughout the growing months of spring and summer. A crafty homemade fertiliser recipe suggested by an avid online planter involves banana peels. An anonymous plant lover advised the members of the Gardening Hints and Tips Facebook group: “In the summer, I feed my houseplants with a homemade banana soak. My peace lily loves it, just thought I’d share it in case anyone is struggling.”
They went on to reveal their success secret: “I’ve always struggled to get my peace lilies looking good, but bananas make them bloom for years.”
The tip continues, “Once I’ve eaten a banana or given it to my dog, I’ll chop the peel and soak it in some warm water. After a few days, pour sparingly on your plants, so tasty for them.”
This banana peel hack stirred quite the conversation among fellow green-fingered enthusiasts.
Susan Dyre shared her thoughts in the comments: “Heard lots about this, so I gave it a go. I only use it now and again, and then a proper feed in between, but it’s fantastic.”
Adding to the buzz, Rose Danyel cautioned, “All houseplants love this, not just peace lilies, but be careful not to overwater.”
How to use banana peels as fertiliser
Immersing banana peels in water allows the release of nutrients like potassium, phosphorus and magnesium, which are advantageous for peace lilies.
It’s crucial to dilute the banana-infused water with more water to extend its longevity and prevent it from overpowering the plant.
To use banana peels as a soaked fertiliser, cut them into small pieces, soak them in water for a few days, and then use the nutrient-rich liquid to water plants. The soaked peels can also be added to compost.
Banana peels can also serve as fertiliser for outdoor plants, including tomatoes, bell peppers, roses and hydrangeas.
When planting a new specimen, sprinkle some banana peels beneath the compost or arrange them on top of the soil.
This method can also aid in repelling pests such as slugs, who detest rough surfaces.
