Oranges have become a cornerstone in breakfast, highly valued for their high vitamin C content and sweet flavour. But do you tend to discard the peels after indulging in the staple agricultural product? Well, you’re not alone. According to Journal of Molecular Liquids, orange peels represent approximately 40–50% of the total fruit’s weight and are characterised primarily as a major industrial waste byproduct. The good news is that they are now increasingly recognised as a valuable resource for landfilling and for composting.Simple way to use orange peels for better plant healthThe outer covering of oranges is usually thrown away without giving it much thought. Nevertheless, these peels can now be used for several applications in boosting the overall health of your gardens. Several researchers have noted that proper utilisation of orange peels not only adds value but also improves plant health without the use of chemicals.Studies show that citrus peels contain essential nutrients, including nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which are required for plant growth and development. During decomposition, these nutrients gradually break down and are absorbed into the soil.Gardening experts claim that orange peel contains a compound called d-limonene, which is extracted from citrus oils. This compound is further capable of repelling insects due to its properties.Use orange peel to make compostAccording to a study published in Compost Science & Utilization, one of the easiest methods of using orange peels is by preparing compost using them. The peels should be allowed to dry thoroughly before chopping or grinding into smaller pieces. This will help in faster decomposition.However, it is important to use the peels in moderation, as too many can make the soil acidic. Additionally, ensure you use organic orange peels to avoid introducing chemicals into your soil.Research also suggests combining citrus peels with other greens to enhance faster absorption by the soil.
Gardener placing dried orange peels into dark, rich soil around green plants. Image credit – Gemini
Create a natural ant repellentThe use of orange peels helps prevent ants from invading your garden because they find it difficult to move around areas with a strong citrus odour. The d-limonene compound in it acts as a natural repellent for ants.To create this natural ant repellent, you have to dry the orange peels and then crush them into a fine powder. Spread the powder on garden beds, ant entrance points, or wherever you find ants.But ensure you refresh the ant repellent powder often to retain its effectiveness. You must reapply the spray after rain or strong winds, as it will eventually wear off or dissipate due to weather conditions.Make a biodegradable seed starterHollowed-out orange peels also make great seed starters because you can plant seeds directly in them. The process involves slicing an orange open, removing its contents, and filling it with soil before planting seeds.As the peel decomposes, it provides essential nutrients to developing seedlings. Once the plants develop several leaves, you can plant the entire plant, including the peel, without causing any damage to the root system.
Gardener spraying a homemade orange peel solution onto plant leaves. Image credit – Gemini
Use orange peel spray against aphidsAphids are one of the most common pests encountered by gardeners. And the most natural and efficient way to deal with them is an orange-peel spray.The first step is to put orange peels into boiling water and let the mixture sit for some time. Then add a few drops of dish soap to the water before transferring the mixture into a spray bottle. It should be applied to the leaves and stems of plants, paying attention to the undersides of leaves where aphids are usually found. The dish soap will help it adhere to the leaves, and the citrus scent will help keep pests away.Reusing orange peels is a small step towards sustainable gardeningUsing orange peels in the garden is a very convenient way to solve several problems. First, it reduces household waste, and second, it promotes plant growth.Although it does not solve all issues related to gardening, it is a great example of the natural ways to improve soil quality and eliminate pests.
