The indoor plants market was valued at $17.93 billion in 2021 and is projected to reach $26.23 billion by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 4.87% from 2022 to 2029, according to Data Bridge Market Research.
With the increasing demand for indoor plants, many people are curious about the proper care steps for these plants.
One common question is about the right nutrients for indoor plants and how to apply them. Or how to nurish my indoor plants with organic fertilizer. Another query revolves around choosing between organic and inorganic fertilizers for indoor plants.
In this situation, I highly recommend using organic fertilizer for your house plants as it is the best choice for their care.
Organic fertilizers help maintain the health and vibrancy of indoor plants.
The best part is that you don’t need to put in a lot of effort or time to collect and apply these fertilizers. You can easily obtain them from household scraps.
In this article, I will address some common doubts about organic fertilizer, helping you choose the perfect organic fertilizer for your indoor plants.
Here is your complete guidebook on organic fertilizer for indoor plants.
What is organic fertilizer?
Organic fertilizers are naturally occurring fertilizers that are biodegradable and serve as nutrient enhancers for the soil.
Characteristics:
i) They enrich the soil by adding nutrients, enhancing its fertility.
ii) Organic fertilizers provide organic matter to the soil, supplying food for beneficial microorganisms.
iii) The nutrients in organic fertilizers are released slowly, resulting in a long-lasting impact on soil and plants.
iv) They are environmentally friendly, causing no adverse effects on the environment.
v) Organic fertilizers exhibit great resistance to pest attacks and diseases.
The balanced and minimal nutrient content in organic fertilizers prevents damage to plants from excessive nutrient levels, avoiding burnout.
Difference between organic fertilizer and synthetic fertilizer
| Organic Fertilizer | Synthetic Fertilizer |
| It is not readily available. That is why it is more expensive. | It is readily available and widely used. That is why it is less expensive. |
| This releases nutrients into the soil slowly. It has a long lifespan. | It releases the nutrients to the soil quickly. You can get your desired effect on the soil and plants more quickly than the organic fertilizer. |
| The application process is a little tricky. Sometimes, you are not recommended to apply raw fertilizer directly to the soil of your garden. | You can apply it directly to the soil by following the application guide available in the packet. However, over-application may result in burning the plants. |
Nurishment for Indoor Plants with Organic Fertilizer
Fertilizers are not actually plant foods, as plants are capable of producing their own food through photosynthesis. However, they do require certain micronutrients and macronutrients during the food preparation process.
Plants obtain nutrients such as carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen from the air and soil.
Some nutrients like nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus, sulfur, calcium, magnesium, molybdenum, and more are present in the soil, which plants absorb.
The main purpose of fertilizers is to provide an adequate supply of these nutrients to the soil, ensuring plants have access to them.
One of the advantages of organic fertilizers is their slow-release nature, allowing them to remain in the soil for extended periods of time.
This characteristic contributes to their effectiveness in supporting plant growth and development.
List Of Organic Home-Made Fertilizers
Here are 11 organic homemade fertilizers that you can collect from your daily scraps and kitchen wastes.
Banana Peels
Banana peels are more than just waste after you enjoy your crunchy toast and banana for breakfast. Instead of throwing them in the dustbin, why not use them as organic fertilizer for your indoor plants?
Benefits:
Banana peels are rich in calcium, magnesium, and sulfur, which offer several benefits for your plants:
i. Calcium promotes root growth, ensuring strong and healthy plants.
ii. Magnesium aids in photosynthesis, the process through which plants convert sunlight into food.
iii. Sulfur in banana peels strengthens plant roots and acts as a natural pest control method.
iv. When applied to the soil, banana peels improve soil aeration, allowing better oxygen flow to the plant’s root zone.
How to use it?
Here’s how you can use banana peels as fertilizer:
i. Cut the banana peels into small pieces.
ii. Place the peels in a jar or container.
iii. Pour water into the jar, covering the peels.
iv. Let the mixture sit for 2 to 3 days, allowing the nutrients to seep into the water.
v. Afterward, strain the water from the jar and collect it in a bottle.
vi. Apply this nutrient-rich water to the soil of your indoor plants.
Tea Leaves
Your refreshing morning tea shouldn’t be limited to your enjoyment alone. Why not share the benefits with your indoor plants?
Benefits:
Tea leaves, apart from making a delightful beverage, are packed with nutrients such as nitrogen, manganese, ferrous, zinc, and copper. These micronutrients offer several advantages for your indoor plants:
i. Tea leaves work as a natural pest repellent, keeping those pesky bugs at bay.
ii. They promote the flowering and fruiting of your indoor plants, leading to a more abundant harvest or beautiful blooms.
iii. Adding tea leaves into the soil improves its quality, enhancing the overall health of your plants.
iv. Tea leaves also contribute to better drainage and moisture retention in the soil, providing an ideal environment for plant growth.
How to use:
Here’s how you can utilize tea leaves as fertilizer:
i. Collect used tea leaves and store them in a plastic jar for 2 to 3 days.
ii. Mix the tea leaves with rainwater.
iii. Stir the mixture occasionally to ensure proper infusion.
iv. Add the tea leaf solution to the pots of your indoor plants.
With consistent use, you’ll start noticing positive changes in your plants within a few days. So, don’t let those tea leaves go to waste—give your indoor plants a chance to benefit from their nutrient-rich properties.
Coffee Grounds
I bet you’re known for brewing a great cup of coffee among your friends, but why not put those coffee grounds to use for your houseplants too?
Benefits:
Coffee grounds are packed with beneficial nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and chromium. Here’s how your indoor plants can benefit:
i. Coffee grounds promote the healthy growth of your indoor plants, giving them the boost they need to thrive.
ii. When added to the soil, coffee grounds contribute to the organic matter and biomass, enhancing the soil’s water retention capacity and improving aeration for healthier roots.
iii. Coffee grounds have an acidifying effect on the soil, which can be beneficial for plants that prefer slightly acidic conditions.
How to use:
Here’s a simple way to utilize coffee grounds as a fertilizer:
i. Take one teaspoon of coffee grounds and add them to a gallon of water.
ii. Allow the mixture to sit for a few days, stirring it occasionally to ensure proper infusion.
iii. After a few days, strain the water to remove the coffee grounds and collect the nutrient-rich solution.
iv. Add this coffee ground-infused water to the soil of your indoor plants.
Be patient and give it a few days for the changes to take effect. You’ll soon notice the positive impact of using coffee grounds as a natural fertilizer for your indoor plants. So, don’t let those coffee grounds go to waste—put them to good use and watch your plants thrive!
Epsom Salt
Contrary to popular belief, salt can actually be beneficial for plant growth. In fact, Epsom salt, which is rich in sulfur and magnesium, is highly recommended as an organic fertilizer for houseplants.
Benefits:
Here are the benefits of using Epsom salt as a fertilizer:
i. Sulfur and magnesium, both present in Epsom salt, play a vital role in promoting flowering and fruiting in plants, resulting in more abundant blooms and bountiful harvests.
ii. These micronutrients also enhance the process of photosynthesis, enabling plants to efficiently absorb essential macronutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
How to use:
To make the most of Epsom salt as a fertilizer, follow these simple steps:
i. Add one teaspoon of Epsom salt to a gallon of water, ensuring that it dissolves completely.
ii. Apply this Epsom salt-water mixture to your houseplants once a month, particularly during the active growing season of the plants.
By incorporating Epsom salt into your plant care routine, you provide your houseplants with the essential sulfur and magnesium they need for optimal growth and development. So, give it a try and watch your plants flourish with vibrant blooms and healthy fruits!
Eggshells
You’re absolutely right! The hardcover of boiled eggs, also known as eggshells, can be beneficial for the health of your indoor plants.
Eggshells are rich in calcium, as well as potassium, phosphorus, and magnesium, which are essential nutrients for plant growth.
Benefits:
Here are the benefits of using eggshells as organic fertilizer:
i. Eggshells help strengthen the roots of your houseplants, promoting overall plant health and vitality.
ii. They also contribute to lowering the acidity of the soil, making it more balanced and suitable for a wide range of plants.
iii. Eggshells are particularly beneficial for tomato plants. They can help prevent blossom-end rot, a common condition where the bottom of the tomato fruits becomes dark and rots, leading to higher yields.
How to use:
To utilize eggshells as a fertilizer for your indoor plants, follow these steps:
i. Clean the eggshells thoroughly, ensuring that no traces of egg or membrane are left behind.
ii. Allow the eggshells to dry completely, either by air-drying them or by placing them in an oven on low heat.
iii. Crush the dried eggshells into a fine powder. You can use a blender or a mortar and pestle for this purpose.
iv. Add the crushed eggshells to boiled water and let the mixture steep for a while.
v. Afterward, strain the water to remove any large particles of eggshell and collect the liquid.
vi. Apply this eggshell-infused water to the pots of your indoor plants, ensuring that the soil is thoroughly moistened. You can repeat this process twice a week for optimal results.
By incorporating crushed eggshells into your plant care routine, you provide your indoor plants with a natural source of calcium and other beneficial minerals. This can contribute to stronger roots, healthier growth, and improved overall plant performance.
Kitchen Scraps
Your mother had a great practice! Using kitchen scraps and vegetable peels as fertilizer for indoor plants is an excellent way to recycle and provide natural nutrients to your plants.
Kitchen scraps are indeed rich in macronutrients like nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus, as well as vitamins.
Benefits:
Here are the benefits of using kitchen scraps as organic fertilizer:
i. Kitchen scraps promote the overall growth of indoor plants by providing essential nutrients. The nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus content in the scraps nourish the plants and support their development.
ii. By adding kitchen scraps to the soil, you enhance the aeration of the soil. The organic matter in the scraps improves soil structure, allowing better air circulation and root development.
iii. Kitchen scraps also increase the drainage capacity and moisture-holding capacity of the soil. This helps maintain proper soil moisture levels and prevents waterlogging, which can be detrimental to plant health.
How to use:
To use kitchen scraps as fertilizer for your indoor plants, follow these simple steps:
i. Dig a small hole in the soil of the pots of your indoor plants.
ii. Place the kitchen scraps, such as vegetable peels, directly into the hole. You can chop them into smaller pieces to facilitate decomposition.
iii. Cover the scraps with soil, ensuring they are well incorporated into the potting mix.
iv. Water the plants as usual, allowing the moisture to reach the added kitchen scraps.
Unlike traditional composting, where kitchen scraps are broken down before application, this method allows the scraps to decompose directly in the soil.
As the kitchen scraps break down, they release their nutrients gradually, providing a sustainable source of nourishment for your indoor plants.
By utilizing kitchen scraps, you not only reduce waste but also provide your plants with natural, nutrient-rich fertilizer, supporting their growth and overall health.
Aquarium Water
Using old aquarium water as fertilizer for indoor plants is a great way to recycle and make use of the nutrient-rich water.
Aquarium water contains fish waste and food scraps, which provide a source of nitrogen in the form of nitrate.
Benefits:
i. It helps in the flowering and fruiting of indoor plants.
How to use:
Here is how you can use old aquarium water to benefit your indoor plants:
i. Apply the aquarium water directly to the soil of the pots of your indoor plants. This allows the nutrients in the water, particularly the nitrogen compounds, to be absorbed by the plant roots.
ii. If the concentration of fish waste in the aquarium water is high, you can dilute it with some fresh water. This helps ensure that the nutrient levels are suitable for your plants and prevents over-fertilization.
By using old aquarium water as fertilizer, you provide your indoor plants with a natural source of nitrogen. Nitrogen is an essential nutrient that promotes plant growth, including flowering and fruiting.
Alert tips
It’s important to note that while aquarium water can be beneficial for plants, you should ensure that it does not contain any harmful chemicals or medications that could be detrimental to your plants’ health.
Regular maintenance and water testing of your aquarium can help ensure the water is safe for your plants.
So, instead of throwing away the old aquarium water, utilize it as a nutrient-rich fertilizer for your indoor plants and contribute to a sustainable gardening practice.
Cooking Water
Using cooking water as organic fertilizer for indoor plants is indeed a clever idea.
The water used for cooking vegetables, eggs, pasta, and potatoes contains nutrients that can benefit your plants.
Benefits:
The cooking water contains nutrients that were released from the food during the cooking process. By applying this water to your indoor plants, you provide them with a source of organic fertilizer.
The nutrients present in the cooking water can promote steady growth and improve the soil quality by adding additional nutrients.
How to use:
Here’s how you can use cooking water as fertilizer for your indoor plants:
i. After cooking vegetables, eggs, pasta, or potatoes, preserve the water instead of discarding it. Wait till the water cools down to room temperature.
ii. Once the cooking water has cooled, you can apply it directly to the pots of your indoor plants. Pour the water onto the soil, ensuring that it is evenly distributed.
Alert tips
It’s important to note that the cooking water should be free from any added salts, spices, or excessive oil.
Additionally, avoid using cooking water that contains harmful substances, such as cooking water from plants that are toxic to your indoor plants.
By utilizing cooking water as a fertilizer, you can reduce waste and repurpose a valuable resource for the benefit of your indoor plants.
Gelatin Powder
Using gelatin powder as a supplement for indoor plants can provide them with additional nutrients, particularly nitrogen, which is beneficial for their growth and development.
Benefits:
The nitrogen present in gelatin powder can promote flowering and fruiting in indoor plants, while also contributing to the overall health and vitality of the plants.
Additionally, the organic matter from the gelatin can improve the quality of the soil, enhancing its nutrient content and moisture retention capabilities.
How to use:
Here’s how you can use gelatin powder to benefit your indoor plants:
i. Add a small amount of gelatin powder to a pot of boiled water. The exact amount may vary depending on the concentration of the gelatin powder and the volume of water you’re using. Follow the instructions on the gelatin powder packaging for the recommended ratio.
ii. Allow the mixture to cook for the specified time mentioned on the gelatin powder packaging. This helps dissolve the gelatin and release the nutrients into the water.
iii. After cooking, let the gelatin-water mixture cool down.
iv. Dilute the gelatin solution in plenty of water to ensure it is properly diluted and won’t cause any concentration imbalances in the soil.
v. Water your indoor plants with this diluted gelatin solution, ensuring that the water reaches the roots and soil of the plants.
Alert tips
It’s important to note that when using gelatin powder as a fertilizer, it’s recommended to follow the instructions on the packaging and avoid using excessive amounts.
Overuse of any fertilizer can be detrimental to plants, so it’s best to use it in moderation and monitor your plants’ response.
By incorporating gelatin powder as a nutrient supplement for your indoor plants, you can provide them with an additional boost of nitrogen and contribute to their overall well-being.
Milk Water
Using milk water as a fertilizer for indoor plants is a traditional gardening practice that can provide certain benefits to the plants.
Milk contains calcium and vitamins, which can contribute to the plants’ growth and overall health.
Benefits:
The calcium and vitamins present in milk water can aid in the overall growth of indoor plants, promoting healthy foliage, flowering, and fruiting.
Additionally, milk water can help improve the soil structure, potentially enhancing its nutrient availability and moisture-holding capacity.
How to use:
Here’s how you can use milk water to benefit your indoor plants:
i. Mix one teaspoon of milk with a sufficient amount of water. The exact ratio may vary depending on the size of the pot and the concentration you desire. It’s generally recommended to dilute the milk in water to avoid any potential negative effects from using undiluted milk.
ii. Stir the mixture well to ensure the milk is thoroughly incorporated into the water.
iii. Water your indoor plants with this milk water mixture, making sure to evenly distribute the water throughout the pot and avoid overwatering.
Alert tips
It’s important to note that while milk water can provide certain benefits, it should be used in moderation.
Overuse of milk water or using undiluted milk can lead to the growth of harmful bacteria or fungi in the soil.
It’s recommended to use milk water sparingly, perhaps as an occasional supplement rather than a regular fertilizer.
As with any fertilizer or gardening practice, it’s always a good idea to observe your plants’ response and adjust the application accordingly.
Different plants may have varying tolerance levels to milk water, so monitoring their health and growth will help determine the ideal frequency and concentration for your indoor plants.
By incorporating milk water as a nutrient supplement for your indoor plants, you can provide them with additional calcium and vitamins, potentially benefiting their overall growth, flowering, and fruiting.
Hair
Using hair as an organic fertilizer for indoor plants is an unconventional but interesting approach.
Hair contains high levels of nitrogen and magnesium, which are beneficial nutrients for plant growth.
Benefits:
In addition to providing nutrients, the hair can also improve the soil structure by enhancing aeration.
As it decomposes, it can create small air pockets in the soil, allowing better oxygen circulation around the roots.
How to use:
Here’s how you can use hair as a fertilizer for your indoor plants:
i. Collect the hair from your brush or comb. Make sure to remove any hair products or accessories from the collected hair.
ii. Take the collected hair and distribute it evenly in the soil of the pot containing your indoor plant. You can either sprinkle the hair on the surface or bury it slightly in the soil.
iii. Over time, as the hair decomposes, it will release nitrogen and magnesium into the soil. These nutrients can contribute to the overall growth, flowering, and fruiting of your indoor plants.
Alert tips
It’s important to note that hair takes a considerable amount of time to break down and release its nutrients.
Therefore, the effects of using hair as a fertilizer may not be immediate or as potent as other commercially available fertilizers.
It’s recommended to supplement the hair with other organic or balanced fertilizers to ensure your plants receive a well-rounded nutrient supply.
Furthermore, using clean and untreated human hair is generally considered safe for plants.
However, it’s important to avoid using hair from pets or hair treated with dyes, chemicals, or styling products, as these substances may be harmful to the plants.
While using hair as a fertilizer may not be a common practice, it can be an interesting experiment to explore in your indoor gardening routine.
As always, monitoring the health and growth of your plants will help determine the effectiveness of this unconventional fertilizer method.
Precautions To Be Taken Before Applying It To Indoor Plants
You’ve raised some important considerations when selecting organic fertilizers for indoor plants. It’s essential to ensure that the fertilizers you choose don’t create bad odors, attract bugs and insects, are safe for babies, and are allergy-free.
Here are some important points to keep in mind:
Choose the Right Organic Fertilizer:
If you buy it from the market then choose the organic fertilizer specifically formulated for indoor plants.
Look for products that are labeled safe for indoor use and suitable for the type of plants you have.
Follow the instructions on the packet:
Carefully follow the instructions provided on the fertilizer packaging. Follow the recommended application rates, frequency, and any specific guidelines provided by the manufacturer.
Sometimes, organic fertilizer needs to be diluted with water. If so, then do it properly.
Avoid Overfertilization:
Overfertilization can lead to nutrient imbalances, root burns, and even damage or kill plants.
Stick to the recommended dosage and frequency to avoid any adverse effects.
Consider Plant Needs and Growth Stage:
Different indoor plants have varying nutrient requirements and growth stages. Take into account the specific needs of your plants and their current growth stage when applying organic fertilizer. Adjust the application frequency and dosage accordingly.
Moisture Management:
Before applying the organic fertilizer, ensure that the soil in the pots is adequately moist but not waterlogged. Watering the plants a day or two before fertilizing helps prevent potential root damage and ensures better nutrient absorption.
Application Techniques:
Apply the organic fertilizer evenly to the soil surface around the base of the plants. Avoid direct contact with the foliage, as it can cause burning or damage. Gently work the fertilizer into the top layer of the soil or use a watering can to pour the fertilizer solution directly onto the soil.
Monitor Plant Response:
Observe the plants’ response to the organic fertilizer. If you notice any signs of nutrient deficiencies or excesses (such as yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or wilting), adjust the fertilizer application accordingly.
Bad Odor:
Avoid organic fertilizers that produce strong or unpleasant odors, as they can impact the indoor environment and cause discomfort.
Examples include fertilizers made from milk water or certain types of compost. Instead, opt for odorless or mild-smelling fertilizers.
Attracting Bugs & Insects:
Some organic fertilizers, particularly those with strong smells, may attract flies, insects, or pests.
To maintain a hygienic indoor environment, it’s advisable to choose fertilizers that do not attract unwanted bugs.
Tea leaves and coffee grounds, for instance, may be avoided if you have pets that dislike their smell.
Safety for Babies:
When using any type of fertilizer, it’s important to consider the safety of babies and young children.
While organic fertilizers are generally safe for plant growth, it’s recommended to keep babies away from direct contact with fertilizers due to their developing immune systems.
Take precautions to ensure that fertilizers are applied safely and kept out of reach.
Allergy-Free:
If you or any family members have known allergies, it’s important to select allergy-free organic fertilizers.
Avoid using fertilizers that contain substances known to trigger allergies or irritate sensitive individuals.
It’s always a good idea to check the ingredients or consult with a healthcare professional if you have concerns.
In addition to these considerations, it’s also worth noting that there are commercially available organic fertilizers specifically formulated for indoor plants. These products are often designed to minimize odors, attract fewer pests, and ensure safety in indoor environments.
Reading product labels and choosing reputable brands can help you find suitable options for your indoor plants while addressing the concerns you’ve mentioned.
Overall, it’s important to strike a balance between providing proper nutrients for your indoor plants and maintaining a healthy and comfortable indoor environment for you and your family.
Conclusion and Take Away!
I hope you enjoyed the discussion on indoor plants organic fertilizers. If you have any questions let me know in the comment section below.
So what are you waiting for? Bookmark this page for future use and share it with your gardening buddies now!
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Reference:
- Data Bridge Market Research
- https://homegarden.cahnr.uconn.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/3479/2022/08/Houseplant-Fertilization.pdf
Misty S is the founder and lead writer at GrowOrganicGreens.com, a comprehensive gardening resource dedicated to helping people cultivate beautiful and sustainable gardens. She has a Master’s degree in Economics and specialized studies in agricultural economics, horticulture, and soil science. Drawing from her extensive knowledge and experience, Misty shares practical gardening tips on soil preparation, organic manure composting, fertilizers, plant care, and indoor gardening, making her advice accessible and helpful to gardeners of all levels.
Despite having an high-demanding 9-5 job, Misty dedicates her personal time to researching and exploring various gardening topics. Her keen interest in gardening has grown into a passion, driving her to help new gardeners and anyone interested in starting their gardening journey.
Follow Misty’s work and the latest gardening insights and updates on Pinterest. You can reach out to Misty at mistysblogging@gmail.com.