How to Make Water Fertilizer for Plants

If you're looking for a simple and cost-effective way to nourish your plants, water fertilizer may be your answer. Instead of purchasing expensive commercial fertilizers from the store, you can make your own liquid plant food using basic ingredients that are readily available. Here's how to make water fertilizer for plants:

What You'll Need

Before you begin, gather the following items:

A large container with a lid (e.g. a 5-gallon bucket)

An aquarium aerator and tubing

A quarter-cup of Epsom salt

A small amount of baking soda (to stabilize the pH)

A few tablespoons of organic fertilizer (e.g. compost or worm castings)

A gallon of water

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your plant fertilizer:

Mix the Epsom salt and baking soda into the water. Stir until they're fully dissolved.

Add the organic fertilizer to the mixture. This may include compost, worm castings, or even a homemade plant tea (e.g. brewed from nettles or comfrey).

Attach the aquarium aerator to the tubing and place the tubing in the container. Turn on the aerator and let it run for 24-48 hours. This will oxygenate the water and allow the beneficial microbes in the fertilizer to thrive.

After the mixture has been aerated for a day or two, the water fertilizer is ready to use. Use a watering can or hose to apply the liquid directly to the soil around your plants. You can also pour the fertilizer into a sprayer if you prefer to distribute it more evenly.

Additional Tips

Here are a few additional things to keep in mind when making and using water fertilizer:

Don't overdo it. While water fertilizer can be a great source of nutrients for your plants, too much of a good thing can cause more harm than good. Use it sparingly and only as needed.

Store the fertilizer in a cool, dark place. Sunlight and heat can promote the growth of algae and bacteria in the mixture.

Choose organic fertilizers. Synthetic fertilizers can damage the beneficial microbes in the soil and harm your plants over time.

By making your own water fertilizer for plants, you can save money and avoid harsh chemicals that may harm your garden. With a few basic ingredients and some patience, you can create a liquid plant food that's both effective and eco-friendly. Give it a try and see the difference it makes in the health and growth of your plants!