To grow healthily and flourish, plants need fertilizers. These can be organic or mineral substances that provide essential nutrients to the soil, stimulating flowering and fruiting. Instead of using commercial fertilizers, consider utilizing natural options found in your kitchen. Here’s why you shouldn’t throw away artichoke cooking water—it’s a true miracle for your indoor plants!
The Benefits of Artichoke Cooking Water
Throwing away vegetable cooking water is a common mistake, as it is packed with benefits for your indoor plants. Artichoke cooking water is especially valuable because it contains minerals and vitamins released during cooking. This water serves as a natural fertilizer, nourishing your plants and promoting vigorous growth.
Key nutrients found in artichoke cooking water include:
- Potassium: Strengthens the plant’s defenses and regulates water supply.
- Phosphorus: Stimulates root development and promotes flowering.
- Nitrogen: Encourages plant growth and new tissue production.
How to Use Vegetable Cooking Water
You can utilize cooking water from any organic vegetable, as long as they are free from pesticides. After cooking, allow the water to cool before using it to water your plants. Ensure that it is not salty.
Use Potato Cooking Water
Potato cooking water, rich in starch, can also serve as a natural weed killer. To make this, cook potatoes with their skins on. Adding a little salt can enhance its effectiveness. After cooling, pour the water over the weeds you want to eliminate.
Other Cooking Waters Beneficial for Plants
Besides artichoke water, several other cooking waters can also nourish your plants:
- Pasta Cooking Water
- Rich in minerals and nutrients, this water can be used to water your plants. Just remember not to use salty water. Allow it to cool before applying.
- Egg Cooking Water
- This water is beneficial due to the calcium and nutrients in eggs. Pour the cooled water at the base of your plants. Additionally, crushed eggshells can protect plants from pests like ants and slugs.
Cooking Artichokes Properly
To maximize benefits, it’s crucial to cook artichokes correctly. Check for damaged outer leaves and remove them. Cook them for 20 to 40 minutes in salted water, or opt for steam cooking for about 10 minutes.
Nutritional Properties of Artichokes
Artichokes are nutrient-rich, containing potassium, iron, vitamin B1, fiber, magnesium, and calcium. They have cleansing and purifying properties that benefit our bodies.
By utilizing vegetable cooking water, you can fertilize your indoor plants naturally and effectively. Consider integrating other natural fertilizers like coffee grounds, nettle manure, or fruit peels to enhance plant health further!
