Gelatine: A secret boost for vibrant houseplant growth
Fertilising houseplants is one of the ways to care for them properly. We don't have to use products we buy to nourish the plants. An inexpensive and effective preparation from two ingredients will handle this task perfectly.
Gelatine is a popular culinary ingredient, mainly used in making jellies and desserts. However, not everyone knows that its properties can be successfully used in the cultivation of house and garden plants. What does gelatine affect, and how can you use it to fertilise houseplants? Here are a few tips.
Why use fertiliser made from gelatine?
Using gelatine fertiliser has many advantages. First and foremost, this fertiliser is an excellent source of nitrogen, as well as amino acids and minerals that support plant growth. Another advantage is the improvement in soil structure. The soil becomes more permeable, allowing plant roots better access to water. An undeniable plus of this fertiliser is that it is easy to prepare, inexpensive, and eco-friendly.
How to make fertiliser from gelatine?
To prepare gelatine fertiliser, you need a tablespoon of gelatine, about 240 ml of hot water, and a bottle with a capacity of approximately 1000 ml. Then, pour the gelatine into a bowl, add hot water, and mix vigorously. Pour the prepared solution into the bottle and fill it with cold water to the full capacity of the bottle.
Using this homemade fertiliser is as easy as preparing it. Simply water the plants with the ready solution every two weeks during the growing season.
Which plants should be watered with gelatine fertiliser?
Gelatine fertiliser works great for many plant species. It is especially recommended for peace lilies, snake plants, ZZ plants, monstera, ferns, and ficus. Thanks to it, their leaves gain an intense colour and are more resistant to environmental factors.
Furthermore, gelatine fertiliser can be used for leafy vegetables, such as spinach, lettuce, or rocket, as well as ornamental perennials like hostas and ornamental grasses.
Gelatine fertiliser is perfect for weakened plants that require regeneration. Thanks to its nitrogen content, it speeds up regeneration and strengthens plants. However, it's important to remember that not all plants can be nourished with gelatine fertiliser. It is not recommended for use on cacti or certain herbs. Additionally, you should not water plants that are currently blooming with it.
What to remember when using gelatine fertiliser?
Like any fertiliser, gelatine fertiliser can be harmful when overused. Watering too frequently can lead to soil salinisation, so it is important to maintain the recommended frequency and use the solution wisely and according to the specific needs of each plant.
