Banana peels emerge as powerful, low-waste plant fertilizer

Banana peels, a common kitchen waste, can be converted into biofertilizers that boost plant height, leaf area, and germination, often outperforming untreated soil and rivaling some chemical fertilizers. A review of 126 studies shows peel-based fertilizers deliver nutrients slowly through methods like sun-drying, grinding, slurry, or fermentation with other wastes, offering a cleaner alternative to synthetic NPK while reducing landfill waste. However, long-term field data on yield and soil microbes are still needed. For home gardeners, repurposing banana peels into soil amendments can support healthier plants and lower environmental impact.