How To Make Your Own DIY Succulents Fertilizer At Home

Do you ever find yourself gazing at your succulents, wondering how to give them the best care possible? You're not alone! These charming plants bring a touch of the desert into our homes, and though they seem low-maintenance, a little extra care can make them thrive. That's where a homemade succulent fertilizer comes in handy, and yes, you can make it right in your own kitchen.

In this post, we'll explore how to create your own DIY succulent fertilizer, step by step. From understanding what succulents need, to gathering ingredients, and even how to apply the fertilizer, we've got you covered. By the end, you'll be equipped with the knowledge to keep your succulents happy and healthy without breaking the bank.

Understanding What Succulents Need

Before we start mixing ingredients, it’s important to understand what succulents actually need. These resilient plants are native to arid climates and are adapted to store water, but they still require nutrients to grow. Unlike your typical leafy houseplant, succulents need a balanced diet that's light on nitrogen but rich in phosphorus and potassium. These nutrients help them develop strong roots and vibrant colors without causing excessive leaf growth.

Think of succulents as the minimalist of the plant world. They prefer their nutrients in moderation. Over-fertilizing can lead to a plant that's all leaves and no structure. Ever seen a succulent that looks a bit too lush? It's probably been overfed. The goal is to provide just enough nutrition to encourage healthy growth without overwhelming the plant.

As we dive into making your own fertilizer, keep this balance in mind. The homemade solutions we'll discuss are designed to offer a gentle boost, supporting your succulents’ natural growth patterns.

Gathering Ingredients for Your Fertilizer

Now that we know what succulents need, let's talk ingredients. You don’t need anything fancy – most of these items are probably already in your kitchen or garage. Here’s a simple list to get you started:

• Banana Peels: Rich in potassium, banana peels are a fantastic natural fertilizer. Potassium helps with root development and improves plant resistance to disease.
• Eggshells: These are high in calcium, which helps strengthen cell walls, promoting sturdier plants.
• Coffee Grounds: While not essential for succulents, they can be added sparingly for a nitrogen boost. Be cautious, as too much nitrogen can harm your succulents.
• Epsom Salt: A great source of magnesium, which is vital for photosynthesis and enzyme function.
• Water: You'll need this to mix everything together into a usable form.

Gather these ingredients and you’re halfway there! Each of these components contributes something unique to your DIY fertilizer, creating a balanced mix that’s gentle yet effective.

Preparing the Ingredients

With your ingredients in hand, it's time to get them ready. This might sound like a chore, but trust me, it's pretty straightforward.

Banana Peels

Start by drying your banana peels. You can do this by laying them out in the sun or popping them in the oven at a low temperature. Once they’re completely dry, grind them into a fine powder using a blender or coffee grinder. This powder is packed with potassium and will mix easily into your fertilizer solution.

Eggshells

For eggshells, wash them thoroughly to remove any remaining egg white or yolk. Then dry them completely – again, the sun or an oven will do the trick. Once dry, crush them into a fine powder. A mortar and pestle work well for this, or you can pop them into a food processor.

Coffee Grounds

If you’re using coffee grounds, make sure they're used and dried. Fresh grounds can be too acidic for succulents. Spread them out on a baking sheet and let them air dry for a day or two.

Once your ingredients are prepped, you’re ready to move on to the mixing stage. It’s as simple as that!

Mixing Your DIY Fertilizer

With your ingredients prepped, it’s time to mix your fertilizer. Here’s a simple recipe to follow:

1. Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of banana peel powder, 1 tablespoon of eggshell powder, and 1 tablespoon of dried coffee grounds.
2. Add Epsom Salt: Stir in 1 teaspoon of Epsom salt. This will give your succulents the magnesium boost they need.
3. Mix with Water: Slowly add 2 cups of water, stirring as you go. You want to create a well-mixed solution. If you end up with clumps, don't worry – a quick blend in a food processor can smooth things out.

And there you have it – your homemade succulent fertilizer! This mixture can be stored in a glass jar with a lid for future use. Just give it a good shake before each use to ensure the ingredients are well combined.

Applying the Fertilizer

Applying your homemade fertilizer is just as important as making it. You don’t want to overdo it, so a little goes a long way. Here’s how to apply it effectively:

• Start Small: Begin with a small amount – about a tablespoon per plant. You can always add more next time if your succulents respond well.
• Time It Right: Fertilize your succulents once every month during their growing season, which is typically spring and summer. In fall and winter, scale back to once every other month, or even less if your plants are dormant.
• Watering Consideration: Apply the fertilizer when you water your succulents. This ensures the nutrients are absorbed efficiently. Just pour the mixture around the base of each plant, avoiding the leaves.

Keep an eye on how your succulents respond. If they’re looking healthy and vibrant, you’re doing it right. If you notice any yellowing or wilting, reduce the frequency or amount of fertilizer.

Storing Your Fertilizer

Homemade fertilizers don’t have the preservatives that commercial ones do, so proper storage is key. Here are a few tips:

• Use a Sealed Container: Store your fertilizer in an airtight container, like a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. This keeps moisture out and prolongs the shelf life.
• Keep It Cool: A cool, dark place is ideal for storage. Avoid direct sunlight, which can degrade the nutrients over time.
• Label It: Make sure to label your jar with the date you made the fertilizer. This helps you track its freshness. Aim to use it within six months for the best results.

Following these tips will keep your fertilizer fresh and effective, ready to support your succulents whenever they need a boost.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with the best intentions, mistakes can happen. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Over-Fertilizing: More isn’t always better. Too much fertilizer can lead to nutrient burn, which shows up as brown edges on leaves. Stick to the recommended amounts.
• Wrong Season: As tempting as it is to keep fertilizing year-round, remember that succulents need a rest period. Over-fertilizing in winter can stress them out.
• Inconsistent Mixing: Make sure your ingredients are well mixed. Uneven distribution can lead to some plants getting too much of one nutrient and not enough of another.
• Ignoring Plant Signals: Pay attention to how your plants look and adjust your care routine as needed. Each succulent is unique, and what works for one might not work for another.

Avoid these mistakes, and you’ll be well on your way to becoming a succulent pro. Your plants will thank you for it!

Additional Tips for Succulent Care

While fertilizer is important, it’s just one part of the care equation. Here are some additional tips to keep your succulents thriving:

Proper Watering

Succulents hate soggy soil. Water them sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering is the quickest way to a sad succulent.

Lighting

These plants love bright, indirect sunlight. A south-facing window is ideal, but be cautious of direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.

Drainage

Make sure your pots have drainage holes. Good drainage prevents root rot, a common problem for succulents kept in pots without holes.

With these tips, your succulents will have all the love and care they need to flourish.

Exploring Alternative Fertilizer Recipes

If you're feeling adventurous, there are other recipes you can try. Here are a couple of alternatives that can add variety to your succulent care routine:

Compost Tea

Compost tea is a nutrient-rich brew made by soaking compost in water. It provides a balanced mix of nutrients and beneficial microbes. Simply fill a bucket with water, add a handful of compost, and let it steep for a day or two. Strain the mixture, and you’ve got compost tea – a gentle and effective fertilizer.

Fish Emulsion

Fish emulsion is another excellent option. It’s high in nitrogen, so use it sparingly. Dilute the emulsion with water according to the package instructions and apply it during the growing season. Its strong smell might be off-putting, but your succulents will love it!

Experimenting with different fertilizers can be fun, and it helps you discover what your plants respond to best.

Final Thoughts

Creating your own DIY succulent fertilizer is a rewarding way to care for your plants. By understanding their needs and using simple, natural ingredients, you can support their growth and keep them thriving. We've covered everything from understanding what succulents need, to mixing and applying your homemade fertilizer, and even offering additional care tips.

At Cafe Planta, we’re passionate about helping you care for your plants. Whether you have questions about plant care or need a new addition to your collection, we’re here for you. Feel free to email us or send us a DM on Instagram. We believe in connecting with nature through plants, and we’re excited to share that journey with you. Happy planting!