Whether you’re a new gardener or a seasoned pro, there are always fresh and innovative ways to care for your plants. Using simple household items, you can enrich the soil, deter pests, and keep your plants thriving in sustainable ways. Here are some clever garden hacks to help make your gardening routine easier and more effective.
Coffee Grounds to Enrich Soil
If you enjoy a good coffee, your used coffee grounds can benefit your garden too! Coffee grounds are rich in nitrogen, which benefits acid-loving plants like roses, hydrangeas, and rhododendrons. Sprinkle them around plant bases to enhance soil structure and attract earthworms, which naturally aerate the soil. Use them sparingly, as excess acidity may alter soil pH levels over time.
Eggshells for Calcium-Boosted Soil
Eggshells are high in calcium, which supports cell growth in plants. Crush and spread them around calcium-loving plants such as tomatoes, peppers, and spinach to prevent blossom end rot, a common problem related to calcium deficiency. For an extra boost, add eggshells to your compost or mix them directly into your soil.
Banana Peels as a Natural Fertiliser
Banana peels provide essential nutrients like potassium and magnesium. Place them a few inches deep near the roots of plants like roses and beans, or make a nutrient-rich “banana tea” by soaking peels in water for a few days. This eco-friendly solution promotes healthy roots and blooms.
Cinnamon to Prevent Mould and Fungus
Cinnamon is a natural antifungal, ideal for controlling mould and fungus on your plants. Sprinkle a small amount on the soil surface of indoor plants or seedlings to reduce the risk of mould in moist environments. It’s also a great deterrent for ants, adding versatility to your garden kit.
Baking Soda for Mildew Control
Baking soda is an effective, natural solution for preventing powdery mildew on plants like cucumbers, courgettes, and roses. Mix a tablespoon of baking soda with a litre of water and a few drops of mild soap for a gentle fungicidal spray. This mix helps balance leaf pH, inhibiting fungal growth. Apply sparingly to avoid altering soil pH.
Vinegar for Weed Control
Vinegar can be a powerful, eco-friendly weed killer, but it’s non-selective—meaning it will kill any plant it touches. Use it carefully, targeting weeds directly. Pour vinegar on weeds growing in pathways or cracks for a chemical-free solution.
Epsom Salt for Magnesium-Rich Soil
Epsom salt, rich in magnesium and sulfate, benefits plants like roses, tomatoes, and peppers, supporting chlorophyll production for healthier foliage. Dissolve a tablespoon of Epsom salt in a litre of water and apply monthly to help keep leaves vibrant and green.
Companion Planting for Natural Pest Control
Companion planting can reduce pests while promoting plant health by pairing plants that work well together. For example, planting marigolds near carrots deters root pests, while basil enhances tomato growth and keeps aphids at bay. Companion planting reduces the need for pesticides, creating a balanced ecosystem.
Mulching to Retain Moisture and Reduce Weeds
Mulching with organic materials such as straw, leaves, or bark helps conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and add nutrients to the soil. It also regulates soil temperature, keeping roots cooler in summer and warmer in winter, and enhances soil health over time.
Rainwater Collection for a Sustainable Garden
Collecting rainwater is an easy way to conserve water and provide plants with chemical-free hydration. Set up a barrel or container to capture rain from your roof, offering a sustainable and cost-effective water source for your plants.
These simple garden hacks let you use household items to support a healthier, more sustainable garden. Enjoy discovering how these everyday products can benefit your garden!
Keen to read on? Check out this blog post on Low-Light, Low-Maintenance Houseplants.