Utilizing food scraps in its entirety is a sustainable practice that helps reduce waste and promote conscious use of natural resources. In this scenario, onion skins, which are usually discarded, can be transformed into a powerful natural fertilizer to nourish your plants.
Learn how to use onion skins as fertilizer and never waste them again – Image: Wannamon Tengkaoprasert/Shutterstock
Benefits of onion for plantsOnion skins are rich in essential nutrients for the growth and development of plants, including potassium, phosphorus, calcium, and sulfur.
These elements are crucial for strengthening the roots, promoting flowering, and increasing the plants’ resistance to diseases and pests. Additionally, compounds like flavonoids, present in onions, have antioxidant properties that can benefit plant health.
Recipe for fertilizer with onion skinsIngredients:Onion skins; 1 liter of water; PET bottles (for storage); Filter (optional).
Step by step:After using onions in cooking, save the skins to prepare the fertilizer. It is important to remove any dirt residues or deteriorated parts from the skins.Place the onion skins in a clean PET bottle and add 1 liter of water. If desired, you can use a filter to ensure that the water is free of impurities.
Close the bottle tightly and gently shake to mix the onion skins with the water. Let the solution rest for about 24 to 48 hours, allowing the nutrients from the skins to be released into the water.
After the maceration period, you can filter the solution using a paper filter to remove the onion skins and obtain a clearer liquid. Transfer the natural fertilizer to another clean PET bottle and store it in a cool, airy place until ready to use.
How to use this natural fertilizer?To use the fertilizer with onion skins, dilute the solution in water at a ratio of 1 part fertilizer to 10 parts water and water your plants as usual.
You can apply the fertilizer every 15 days during the plants’ growth period, avoiding excess to prevent overloading the roots.
Using onion skins to make natural fertilizer is a simple and effective way to take advantage of the nutrients in this food and nourish your plants sustainably.
In addition to contributing to waste reduction, this practice can provide significant benefits for the development and health of your plants. Try this recipe and promote a healthier and more conscious cultivation in your home or garden.
