Free Best Organic Fertilizer

by Cindy Pierce
(Frisco, Texas, USA)

One of the best organic fertilizers I use in my garden and potted plants is the changed out water from my 55 gallon fish tank. When changing out the water of the tank (about 10 gallons every 3 - 4 months) I do so by syphoning the water into a large plastic pail and distributing it among my ornamentals both outdoors and in. Not only does the water naturally fertilize my prized plants, but the "fishiness" of the fertilizer is also known to repel some insects and mites - a two for one benefit!

You can read more about recycling and gardening in general at http://natureisnurture.net/.


Comment from kate
Great tip for all those budding gardeners who own fish as well. I would never have thought of doing this myself

Frugal Plant And Garden Markers

(Loveland, CO, USA)

After adjusting the length of mini-blinds, save any leftover slats. These can be cut to desired length with one pointed end.

Use permanent markers to write the name of flower and vegetable plants. Use in the garden or in starting trays to identify the young seedlings. These can be washed off and reused repeatedly.


Comment from Kate (site owner)

Good tip, i think i have some old slats lying around somewhere and they will be great as plant markers. thanks.

Don't buy fertilizer for your garden

by Carol Ann
(St. Louis, MO)

I make my own fertilizer by composting yard waste and veggie scraps from the kitchen (as long as there is no grease or salt in it, it goes in the compost bin). Coffee grounds are great, also; I take a covered plastic bucket to work and gather the coffee grounds from all the coffee makers. A local restaurant saves their coffee grounds for me also; I pick them up 2 or 3 times a week. All this makes lots of excellent fertilizer for free!

Hang on to those seeds

by Chris
(Lima, Ohio)

Every year when my marigolds etc.. dry to seed I save them. I have put them in jars and labeled them for the next year. I haven't bought seed for quite a few years for some of my annuals. You can always take cuts from your perennials or root cuts to add to your garden. You can always swap with friends also.

Comment by Kate Site owner
Good tip especially now that our thoughts turn to our gardens this spring. i will have to start to do this in future as my garden is totoally bear and it will cost me far to much to buy plants. Thanks for contributing.