THEsustainable garden and environmentally friendly has a law that comes before any other: no chemical fertilizers. If they are not essential. And they should be replaced with natural, very effective preparations, such as nettle macerate. Aantiparasitic and an natural fertilizerOrganic, economical, self-produced with huge savings for those who have to face the costs of maintaining a vegetable garden or a garden. nettle macerate It is a natural product, based on nettle, which contains formic acid and salicylic acid, two very effective substances against insects and parasites and capable of stimulating the soil for good cultivation. It all starts from thenettle, a plant that we can find almost everywhere. Known for its stinging power, Nettle is a wild plant with a thousand propertiesAnti-anemic, diuretic and purifying, nettle contains mineral salts and vitamin A, C and K, a combination of properties that make it a useful natural remedy for staying fit and healthy. It is in fact a perfect ingredient for preparing many different infusions and many tasty preparations, from pasta to the salty cakeAnd not only that: thanks to its high content of salicylic acid and formic acid, nettle is a perfect ingredient for preparing an excellent natural DIY pesticide to use for garden care: nettle macerateNot to mention that its nitrogen, iron, mineral salts, and vitamin content stimulate the natural growth of plants.
Index of topics
How to prepare it
First of all, before harvesting nettles, remember that it is a stinging plant, so wear garden gloves and handle the plant with care.
Necessary
- Garden shears
- Bucket
- Water
- Nettles
Method
- Take a large container, such as a barrel or bucket, and cover it entirely with the nettle plants, without pressing them down.
- Add water until the nettles are covered and cover with a lid.
- The composition of water and nettles must remain closed for about three weeks.
- After this time, filter the mixture and store it in a bottle with a special dispenser.
How to use
Here's how to use the nettle macerate once it's ready:
- Diluted in water as a fertilizer for plants and flowers, 1 part of macerate and 20 of water.
- Put it in a spray bottle and use it around doors and windows to combat ants in your home.
- It is excellent in composter because it promotes the decomposition process.
- Use it every 2 weeks to water your plants and you will notice lush growth.
How to harvest nettles
Nettles, as we were saying, are easy to find. They are a spontaneous plant, with a very specific characteristic: its leaves are emerald green and have serrated edges. It prefers moist soil, rich in nitrogen and organic matter, and these plants should be found in shaded areas. Two recommendations: Pick them before they flower, as many of the plant's nutrients will be depleted during flowering. Always use gloves: nettle is stinging and causes unpleasant irritation.
Other uses
In addition to being a pesticide and fertilizer, nettle macerate can also be used in the garden, in pots, and in the vegetable garden for preventative purposes. It is very good for plants and protects themFor example, at the time of transplanting, when it is preferable to use it by watering the seedlings.
How it is preserved
Nettle macerate, once prepared using the method we've indicated, can be stored for up to a year. Under two conditions: kept closed in a cool place, and in an airtight containerAlso choose a quiet place, as the nettle macerate may give off a bad odor. But be careful: the unpleasant odor is a tangible sign of its quality.
Read also:
- DIY garden composter
- The best natural insecticides
- The best natural fertilizers for the vegetable garden
Sign up for our newsletter to stay up-to-date. Click here!
Want to see a selection of our news?
- Sign up to our newsletter clicking here;
- We are also up Google News , activate the star to add us to your favorite sources;
- Follow us on Facebook, Instagram e Pinterest.





