As a gardening and landscaping expert, I can tell you that comfrey liquid fertiliser can be a fantastic addition to your gardening routine. It is particularly beneficial for certain plants such as tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers. These plants thrive when provided with the nutrients and minerals that comfrey liquid fertiliser offers.
To use comfrey liquid fertiliser as a summer feed for your tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers, it is important to apply it at the right time. Once the flowers on these plants have set fruit, it is a good indication that they are ready for some extra nourishment. This is when you can start applying the comfrey liquid fertiliser to support their growth and development.
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use comfrey liquid fertiliser effectively:
1. Harvest comfrey leaves: Start by harvesting comfrey leaves from your comfrey plant. You can either cut the leaves off or pull them gently from the stem. It is important to wear gloves while handling comfrey leaves as they can be slightly irritating to the skin.
2. Prepare a container: Take a large container, such as a bucket or a barrel, and fill it with water. The size of the container will depend on the amount of comfrey leaves you have harvested. Ideally, you should aim for a ratio of 1 part comfrey leaves to 10 parts water.
3. Add comfrey leaves to the container: Place the comfrey leaves into the container of water. It is best to chop or shred the leaves into smaller pieces to help release their nutrients more effectively. This will also speed up the decomposition process.
4. Let it steep: Allow the comfrey leaves to steep in the water for around 3-4 weeks. During this time, the leaves will break down and release their nutrients into the water, creating a nutrient-rich compost tea.
5. Stir occasionally: It is a good idea to stir the mixture occasionally to help aerate it and assist in the decomposition process. This will also prevent any unpleasant odors from developing.
6. Strain the liquid: After 3-4 weeks, strain the liquid from the container. You can use a fine mesh or cheesecloth to separate the liquid from any remaining plant material. The resulting liquid is your comfrey liquid fertiliser.
7. Dilute and apply: Before applying the comfrey liquid fertiliser to your plants, it is important to dilute it. The recommended dilution ratio is 1 part comfrey liquid fertiliser to 10 parts water. Mix the two together thoroughly.
8. Apply to plants: Once the comfrey liquid fertiliser is diluted, it is ready to be applied to your tomato, pepper, and cucumber plants. Pour the mixture around the base of the plants, ensuring that the roots receive the nourishment. Be careful not to apply the fertiliser directly onto the leaves as this can cause leaf burn.
9. Repeat as needed: You can continue to apply the comfrey liquid fertiliser to your plants throughout the summer season, especially when they are actively growing and producing fruit. Aim to apply it every 2-3 weeks to provide a consistent source of nutrients.
By using comfrey liquid fertiliser on your tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers, you are giving them a natural and organic boost of nutrients. This can result in healthier, more productive plants with increased yields. Remember to always follow the recommended dilution ratios and apply the fertiliser at the appropriate time for the best results.
I have personally used comfrey liquid fertiliser on my own vegetable garden, and I have seen remarkable improvements in the growth and productivity of my tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers. It is a cost-effective and eco-friendly way to nourish your plants and enhance their overall health. Give it a try and see the difference it can make in your own garden. Happy gardening!
