It's easy to see why this trend is sweeping social media. Like most , it's resourceful and cheap – and don't we all want a quick way to help our thrive? However, opinions on whether the viral videos actually work are mixed. To find out more, I asked gardening experts for their advice.
of Greg, a plant-care app, says, 'The idea behind banana water is that banana peels are loaded with plant-friendly nutrients like potassium, phosphorus, and calcium. These can potentially help support strong roots, lush leaves, and even give flowering plants a boost. The sugars in the peels can also feed beneficial soil microbes.
' So far, so good. But, Kiersten says these benefits should be taken with a grain of salt. This is because the actual concentration of nutrients in banana water may not be high enough to have a significant impact on plant growth, she says.
'There's a lack of scientific research confirming the effectiveness of banana water as a fertilizer.' What's more, Kiersten notes how the sugars in banana water can attract pests like , or even encourage fungal growth in the soil. 'This is especially true if you're using it too frequently or in combination with overwatering.
' If you still want to give it a go, of Perfect Plants Nursery doesn't recommend depending solely on banana water for fertilizing your plants. 'It is best used in combination with a more potent fertilizer,' she says, suggesting the . Kiersten Rankel is a certified Louisiana Master Naturalist and regularly voluntee.
