As the summer sun intensifies and roses burst into full bloom, gardeners are discovering a simple yet effective way to enhance the health and vibrancy of their flowers: homemade fertilizer from kitchen scraps. According to Kelly, a seasoned gardener and founder of My Soulful Home, the combination of banana peels, coffee grounds, and egg shells can significantly boost rose growth without the need for store-bought fertilizers.
“Fertilizing roses in early July, at the peak of their blooming season, is crucial to replenish vital nutrients and support robust flower production,” explained Kelly. She emphasized that potassium-rich banana peels, calcium-packed egg shells, and nitrogen-filled coffee grounds form a potent mix that not only nourishes roses but also strengthens their resistance to diseases like blossom-end rot.
Kelly shared her recipe for the homemade fertilizer, highlighting its dual benefits of enhancing nutrient uptake for longer-lasting blooms and deterring pests such as slugs and snails. “Sprinkling coffee grounds around the base of the plants acts as a natural barrier against slugs, who detest both the texture and scent,” she revealed.
To create the fertilizer, gardeners are advised to collect leftover banana peels and coffee grounds in a container. Egg shells should be cleaned thoroughly, dried, crushed, and added to the mix, with some shells reserved to scatter around the base of rose bushes as a protective shield against slugs.
“When applying the mixture, work it into the soil around the plants,” Kelly advised. This method ensures that roses receive a steady supply of nutrients directly at their roots, promoting healthy foliage and vibrant flower growth throughout the summer months.
By harnessing the power of everyday kitchen waste, gardeners can achieve lush, thriving roses without the expense of commercial fertilizers. As Kelly concludes, “My secret garden tip is simple: cut, crush, scoop, and nourish. Your roses will thank you with abundant blooms and robust health.”
This eco-friendly approach not only benefits roses but also reduces kitchen waste, making it a sustainable choice for gardeners looking to enhance their summer gardens naturally.
