Orange Peel Gardening Benefits:Do orange peels work as natural fertilizer for plants? How can orange peels be used to keep ants and pests away? Can soil fertility be increased by making compost from orange peels?
Orange is considered a delicious fruit rich in Vitamin C. Most people throw the peels in the dustbin after eating its pulp. But do you know that orange peels are no less than a natural fertilizer for your garden? According to many researches, orange peels constitute about 40-50% of the total weight of the fruit and contain many nutrients which help in better growth of plants. If you want to avoid chemical fertilizers and pesticides, then using orange peels can be a great and eco-friendly option for your garden.
Why are orange peels beneficial for plants?
Essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium are found in orange peels. These elements dissolve slowly in the soil and provide nutrition to the plants. Apart from this, they contain a natural compound called D-Limonene, which helps in keeping many insects away.
Make organic compost from orange peels
The easiest way to use orange peels is to make compost. To use it, first dry the peels thoroughly. After this grind them. Then put them in the compost pit or compost bin. Mix with green leaves and other organic waste. This will cause the peels to rot quickly and increase the amount of nutrients in the soil. Keep in mind that adding too much peel can increase the acidity of the soil, so use only a balanced amount.
Natural way to get rid of ants
If there is a problem of ants in your garden, orange peels can prove helpful.
How to use?
- Dry the peels and grind them finely.
- Sprinkle this powder around the plants, garden beds and on the paths where ants travel.
- The strong citrus scent and D-limonene help keep ants away from the area. It is necessary to re-pour it after rain or strong wind.
Make Biodegradable Seed Starter
Orange peels can also be used as small natural pots for growing seeds. To make this, first cut the orange in half and take out its pulp. Fill the empty shell with soil. Sow seeds in it. Water regularly. When the plant develops some leaves, plant it in the soil along with the entire peel. The peel will gradually dry out and provide additional nutrition to the plant and will not harm the roots.
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Make spray to protect from aphids
Aphids are one of the most common pests that damage plants. A spray prepared from orange peels can help in preventing these.
How to make spray
- Boil orange peels in water.
- Let the mixture cool for some time.
- Add a few drops of liquid dish soap to it.
- Now fill it in a spray bottle.
Spray this spray on the leaves and stems of plants, especially on the lower part of the leaves where aphids are found more. The citrus scent helps keep pests away.
It is also beneficial for the environment
Reusing orange peels reduces household organic waste and makes gardening more sustainable. It not only helps in improving the quality of soil but also controls many minor pest problems in a natural way.
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