Introduction to Common Materials and Methods for Making Homemade Flower Fertilizer

Homemade flower fertilizer refers to flower fertilizer processed at home from common household materials. Common raw materials include rice-washing water, eggshells, okara (soybean residue), fruit peels, plant ash and wood shavings. This kind of fertilizer requires no special purchase, costs little, and makes full use of household waste, so it is popular with many flower-growing enthusiasts.

In terms of nutrient composition, homemade flower fertilizer can be roughly divided into nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium types. Rice-washing water, decomposed okara and soybean cake water are rich in nitrogen and help the growth of branches and leaves; eggshells, bone meal and the like are rich in calcium and phosphorus and are somewhat helpful for flowering and root development; plant ash and similar materials contain more potassium and can strengthen the plant's resistance. In addition, diluted beer water is also often used as a nutrient solution to water or wipe the leaves.

The most critical step in the process is fermentation and decomposition. Put organic materials such as rice-washing water and fruit peels into a container, seal it, and leave it for a period of time until it is fully decomposed before use; this can reduce the risk of burning the roots and attracting insects. Materials that have not been decomposed, if buried directly in the flower pot, will continue to ferment and generate heat in the soil, which is very bad for the flower roots.

When applying, the principle is to use thin fertilizer frequently; liquid fertilizer should be diluted with water before watering, as too high a concentration will likewise damage the roots. Animal materials such as fish intestines should be buried deep and kept away from the roots, so as to avoid odors or burning the plant. Once the mix of raw materials, the degree of decomposition and the application concentration are well controlled, homemade flower fertilizer can become an economical and practical helper in home flower growing.