How to save a dying plant: Simple home hacks
What's the story
Resurrecting wilting plants can feel like a Herculean task, but the elixir of life might be closer than you think - right at your home!
Many household items you wouldn't think twice about contain the nutrients and care your fading green friends need to spring back to life.
Read on to discover some surprising, yet effective, ways to use everyday products to nurse your plants back to health.
Nutrient boost
Coffee grounds for acid-loving plants
Coffee grounds are high in nitrogen, a nutrient that plants need to grow.
They also contribute organic matter to the soil, enhancing its drainage and water-holding capacity.
Acid-loving plants, such as roses and azaleas, thrive with this added acidity.
Just sprinkle used coffee grounds around the base of these plants or incorporate them into the soil.
Avoid going overboard, though, as excessive acidity can be detrimental to other plants.
Calcium source
Eggshells as natural fertilizer
Eggshells are a great source of calcium carbonate, which helps plants build strong cell walls and supports their overall growth.
Simply crush clean eggshells into small pieces, then either mix them into the soil or sprinkle them directly around the base of your plants.
This technique can help prevent blossom end rot in tomatoes and peppers by ensuring a constant supply of calcium.
Potassium boost
Banana peels for potassium
Banana peels provide a high concentration of potassium, a nutrient that contributes significantly to root development and overall plant health.
To utilize banana peels, simply cut them into small pieces and bury them in the soil near the root zone of your plants, or soak the peels in water to make a "tea" that can be poured onto the soil.
This easy-to-implement tip can significantly improve flowering and fruiting processes.
pH adjustment
Vinegar solution for alkaline soil
Vinegar is acidic and if used sparingly can help reduce the pH level of alkaline soils.
Combine one tablespoon of vinegar with 1 liter of water, and apply it around acid-loving plants like blueberries or hydrangeas every few weeks.
This solution assists in maintaining an optimal pH balance without damaging the beneficial microorganisms in the soil.
Mineral supplement
Epsom salt for magnesium deficiency
Epsom salt is made of magnesium sulfate, a key ingredient for photosynthesis because it helps produce chlorophyll in leaves.
By dissolving a tablespoon of Epsom salt in a gallon (4 liters) of water, you can create a foliar spray or a liquid you can pour directly onto the soil.
Do this once a month during the growing seasons if your plants exhibit yellowing leaves indicative of magnesium deficiency.