Should you use banana peels in your garden as a fertiliser?

We are going to explore the use of banana peels as a fertiliser for your garden. Their pros, cons and our verdict.

Banana peels are a good source of potassium, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, and various vitamins, which are essential for plant growth, helping with strong roots, water efficiency, and disease resistance. The breakdown of nutrients in banana peels is a gradual process, and this slow decomposition is means that they’re unavailable to plants quickly when needed most.

Since they’re not high in nitrogen a lack other essential nutrients, on their own, they’re not going to be enough to help all plants grow to their best potential. Therefore banana peels should be in conjunction with other fertilisers and feeds to create a balanced and complete solution for healthy plant growth.

Composting

As an organic matter, banana peels can be added to your compost bin. This organic material enhances soil structure, promoting better water retention and drainage and improved soil structure. Chop the peels into small pieces to accelerate decomposition, and mix them materials like dry leaves or shredded newspaper for balanced compost.

Avoid burying fresh peels directly in your pots or garden beds due to potential pest issues and slow nutrient release.

Pest attraction

Rotting peels can attract unwanted pests like rodents and fruit flies especially if you’re using it indoors. You can minimise the risk of attracting unwanted pests by chop up your banana peel and bury it deep in the earth, rather than leaving them on top or just below the surface.

Plants that benefit from banana peels

Roses

Since the eighteenth century, gardeners have used banana skins to cultivate exquisite roses. This age-old practice involves using banana peels as a natural fertiliser, rich in potassium, which promotes vibrant blooms and sturdy growth. By incorporating banana skins into their gardening routine, gardeners have seen the remarkable transformation of their roses into stunning displays of beauty and vitality.

Tomatoes

When buried near tomato plants or incorporated into compost, banana peels gradually break down, releasing these nutrients into the soil. This nutrient-rich environment fosters strong root development, encourages vigorous foliage growth, and enhances fruit production.

The verdict

Adding banana peels to your compost pile is the most efficient way to recycle organic waste and creating a nutrient-rich compost for your garden.

While the science for use the use of banana peels in the garden is inconclusive, it is worth experimenting in your garden.

Have you ever tried using banana peel? how did it go? email us content@whattogrow.co.uk