Stinging nettles proliferate at this time of year, but if you’re about to cut any back, don’t throw them away just yet. You can make a great, natural nitrogen-rich fertilizer with just a few simple steps.
- Cut the nettle stems, then dig out the roots.
- Discard the roots in an incinerator or your garden recycling bin.
- Put the nettle stems and leaves into a bucket of water and cover.
- Leave the bucket alone to marinate until spring.
- In spring, open the bucket, lift out the nettle plants and pour the remaining water into a container with a lid.
- Use as a nitrogen-rich fertiliser to encourage healthy leaf growth. It’s important not to use the fertilizer pure as it will be too strong; fill a watering can and mix 10% stinging nettle liquid to 90% water.
