
Did you know that orange peels have multiple uses beyond just being waste? Read on to discover some of the amazing benefits of orange peels and how they can be utilized in your daily life.
1. Natural Fertilizer for Plants
Orange peels are rich in trace elements essential for plant growth. The nutrients in orange peels not only promote lush growth but also enhance the beauty of flowers. Many flower varieties, such as bougainvillea, azaleas, and jasmine, thrive in acidic soil, and orange peels are a perfect fit for them. However, the soil may sometimes fail to meet their requirements, resulting in poor growth.
Using orange peels as fertilizer is simple. Collect and chop up some orange peels and place them in a jar. Fill the jar with water, seal it, and let the mixture ferment for about 40 days. During fermentation, periodically open the jar to release built-up gas and prevent the jar from bursting. Once the fermentation process is complete, you’ll have a natural, organic plant fertilizer. It’s important to dilute the orange peel water before use, mixing one part of the solution with a hundred parts of clean water. This practice not only saves money on fertilizer but also protects the environment by reducing waste.
Moreover, orange peels help adjust the soil’s pH. If your plants are struggling due to unsuitable soil pH, orange peels can improve the situation, creating a more ideal environment for their growth. This is incredibly beneficial for flower and potted plant enthusiasts, as it allows them to nurture healthy plants without relying heavily on commercial fertilizers.
2. Natural Dishwashing Liquid
Here’s another surprising use for orange peels: they can be used to make a natural dishwashing liquid. Many people don’t realize that natural ingredients can be just as effective as commercial products for cleaning dishes. With orange peels, you can easily create a safe and efficient dishwashing solution.
Simply chop up some orange peels and mix them with a spoonful of baking soda. Then, fill a jar with mineral water or cooled boiled water. Seal the jar and store it in the refrigerator for about a week. After this period, you’ll have a natural dishwashing liquid that not only cleans effectively but also leaves a pleasant fragrance. Just a couple of drops of this solution are enough to cut through greasy residue on dishes.
Using a natural dishwashing liquid not only saves you money but also protects your family’s health. Many commercial dishwashing products contain harmful chemicals that can be detrimental to your well-being. With an orange peel-based solution, you can rest assured that you’re using a safe and eco-friendly alternative, reducing plastic waste from bottled products.
3. Insect Repellent
Another interesting use for orange peels is as a natural insect repellent, particularly effective against mosquitoes. Orange peels contain limonene, a natural compound with a scent that mosquitoes find repulsive. This scent creates a natural barrier, helping to protect your living space from these pesky insects.
To repel insects, you can either dry orange peels and place them in areas prone to mosquito infestations or blend the peels with water and spray the mixture in your surroundings. This method is not only safe and healthy but also cost-effective compared to commercial insect repellents.
Instead of spending money on expensive and potentially harmful chemical products, using orange peels is a natural, efficient, and economical solution. Additionally, you contribute to environmental protection by reducing the use of toxic chemicals.