Making water fertilizer, often referred to as liquid organic fertilizer or fermented plant juice, involves a simple fermentation process using common kitchen waste and molasses. This homemade concoction can provide essential nutrients for your plants.
Understanding Homemade Liquid Fertilizer
This method creates a nutrient-rich liquid that can be diluted and used to feed your plants, promoting healthier growth. It's an excellent way to repurpose kitchen scraps and reduce waste while benefiting your garden.
Ingredients and Materials
To begin making your water fertilizer, you'll need just a few simple ingredients and a suitable container.
| Ingredient/Material | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Vegetables (any kind) | 3 kg | Fresh kitchen waste, fruit peels, vegetable scraps |
| Molasses | 1 liter | Acts as a fermentation activator and food source for microbes |
| Water | 5 liters (added later) | For dilution and further fermentation |
| Container | Large enough to hold ingredients | A bucket or drum with a lid is ideal |
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Water Fertilizer
Follow these precise steps to create your own effective water fertilizer from scratch:
-
Initial Mixing (Day 1):
- Take 3 kilograms of any kind of vegetables. This can include a mix of fruit and vegetable scraps, peels, or spoiled produce.
- Combine these vegetables with 1 liter of molasses in your chosen container. Ensure they are well mixed.
-
First Fermentation Period (Day 1 to Day 15):
- Close the container loosely to allow gases to escape but prevent contaminants from entering.
- Let the mixture ferment for 15 days. During this period, beneficial microbes will begin breaking down the organic matter.
-
Dilution and Second Fermentation (Day 16):
- After the initial 15 days, add 5 liters of water to the fermented mixture in the container.
- Stir gently to combine.
-
Second Fermentation Period (Day 16 to Day 30):
- Allow the mixture to ferment for another 15 days. This second phase further breaks down the materials and integrates the added water.
-
Ready to Use (Day 31 onwards):
- After the total 30-day period, the liquid fertilizer is ready to be used. You will have a dark, nutrient-rich liquid.
- Continuous Production: You can continue to add more kitchen waste to the container daily, which will maintain the fermentation process and provide a continuous supply of fertilizer.
How to Use Your Homemade Water Fertilizer
Proper dilution is crucial to avoid damaging your plants with an overly concentrated solution.
- Dilution Ratio: Mix 20 ml of the liquid fertilizer with 20 liters of water.
- Application:
- This diluted solution can be used to water your plants directly at the base.
- It's suitable for various plants, including vegetables, flowers, and even trees.
- Apply regularly, typically once every 1-2 weeks during the growing season.
This method provides a sustainable and cost-effective way to enhance your garden's health using materials you likely already have.
