Single Ingredient Water-Soaked Fermentations for Fertilising Flowers
Water-soaked fermentations, also known as fermented plant extracts, are an excellent way to create natural fertilisers that enhance the nutrient profile of your soil. Below is a selection of single ingredient options, each offering distinct benefits to support flower growth.
1. Nettle (Urtica dioica)
Nutrient Profile
Nettles are rich in nitrogen, potassium, and iron, making them excellent for promoting lush, green foliage and vibrant blooms.
How to Prepare
Collect fresh nettle leaves in gloves to avoid stings.
Chop the leaves and submerge them in a container of water (1 part nettle to 10 parts water).
Cover the container with a cloth to allow air circulation while keeping contaminants out.
Let the mixture steep for 1-2 weeks, stirring occasionally. It’s ready when it has a pungent odour.
Use
Dilute the fermented nettle liquid with water (1 part nettle extract to 10 parts water) and apply it as a foliar spray or soil drench during the growing season.
2. Comfrey (Symphytum officinale)
Nutrient Profile
Comfrey is a powerhouse of potassium, phosphorus, and various trace minerals, which are crucial for flowering and root development.
How to Prepare
Harvest the comfrey leaves, ideally when they’re young and green.
Chop and place them in a large container, covering the leaves with water (1 part comfrey to 10 parts water).
Cover with a cloth and let it ferment for 2-4 weeks, stirring occasionally.
Use
After fermentation, dilute the comfrey liquid (1 part comfrey extract to 10 parts water) and apply directly to the soil around flowering plants to enhance bloom size and colour.
3. Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)
Nutrient Profile
Dandelions are high in potassium, magnesium, and calcium, beneficial for ensuring that flowers have a strong structure and resistance to disease.
How to Prepare
Gather dandelion leaves and flowers, avoiding any treated with chemicals.
Chop finely and place in a container of water (1 part dandelion to 10 parts water).
Allow to ferment for 1-2 weeks, covering with a cloth.
Use
Once fermented, strain and dilute the dandelion liquid (1 part extract to 10 parts water) and use as a fertiliser during the flowering phase to strengthen plant tissues.
4. Seaweed (various species)
Nutrient Profile
Seaweed is packed with trace minerals, micronutrients, and natural growth hormones, promoting overall plant vitality and resilience.
How to Prepare
Harvest fresh seaweed (ensure it is clean and free from contaminants).
Rinse lightly to remove salt.
Soak in water (1 part seaweed to 10 parts water) in a covered container for about 2-4 weeks.
Use
Dilute the fermented seaweed extract (1 part to 10 parts water) and apply to the soil or as a foliar spray to enhance nutrient uptake and stress tolerance.
5. Banana Peel (Musa spp.)
Nutrient Profile
Banana peels are a rich source of potassium and phosphorus, essential for flower and fruit development.
How to Prepare
Cut banana peels into small pieces.
Submerge in water (1 part banana peel to 10 parts water) in a sealed container.
Let it ferment for 1-2 weeks, straining before use.
Use
Dilute the banana peel extract (1 part to 10 parts water) and use it to nourish flowering plants, promoting healthy blooms and fruiting.
Hong Kong florist tips
These single ingredient water-soaked fermentations create nutrient-rich fertilisers that can significantly benefit your flower garden. Each option caters to specific nutrient requirements, promoting overall plant health and vitality. Use these organic methods to foster beautiful blossoms while supporting sustainable gardening practices.
