TikTok swears by it… but does banana water really work?

If you’re like me, you hate wasting good kitchen scraps and you’re always wondering, “Can I use this in the garden?”

Lately, banana water — or banana peel tea — has been popping up all over social media. Some call it the ultimate natural fertilizer. Others (especially us old-school gardeners) raise an eyebrow.

So… is banana water really the secret to stronger plants, or just another garden myth? Let’s dig in.

What is banana water?

Banana water (or banana peel tea) is simply banana peels soaked in water for a day or two, and then that liquid is poured around your plants.

The idea makes sense — bananas are rich in potassium, calcium, and magnesium, so surely some of that goodness leaches into the water? The catch is: only a tiny amount actually does. So while it won’t harm your plants, it’s not the miracle elixir the internet makes it out to be.

What we’ve found at VanZylStead

We’ve experimented with banana water a few times here at VanZylStead because, let’s be honest, I love trying anything that helps our garden thrive naturally.

Here’s what we’ve noticed:

• It’s a nice little booster, but not a complete fertilizer.

• It’s better than throwing the peels in the bin, but composting them is far more beneficial.

• If it sits too long, it starts to smell and attract mozzies — especially in our Cape Town heat.

• And unless you’re using organic bananas, there’s always a small risk of adding residues you don’t want in your veggie beds.

So it’s not a “bad idea,” it’s just not a magic one either. Think of it as a vitamin drink — not a full meal.

What our garden tests (and research) tell us

After digging through a few good gardening resources and testing it ourselves, here’s the honest truth:

• Nutrients are there — but teeny tiny

Banana peels do contain potassium and some calcium and magnesium, but soaking them doesn’t pull out much. If your plants are really hungry, this won’t fix a deficiency — it’s just a small top-up.

• Composting the peel is way better

Almost all expert gardeners agree — composting or adding banana peels to your worm bin gives you way more value. That’s how you get the nutrients fully returned to the soil.

• There’s a risk of pests and mould

If you leave banana water sitting for too long, especially in warm weather, it gets slimy and smelly. It can attract mozzies and even spread mild fungal spores. Also, non-organic peels can carry pesticide residues.

•  It’s more of a “nice-to-try” than a “must-do”

Think of banana water as a gentle tonic, not a replacement for compost, worm tea, or your slow-release organic feeds like Talborne. (You know me — I’ll always say feed the soil, not the plant )

So, my verdict: you can use it, but don’t build your whole feeding plan around it. In our South African veggie gardens — especially during the heat of summer — plants need a balanced, steady nutrition plan.

The best (and safest) way to make banana water

Quick Soak Version

• 2–3 banana peels (rinsed first)

• 1–2 litres of clean water in a jar or bucket with a lid

• Cut the peels into small pieces for better surface area

• Soak for 24 hours only — no longer!

• Strain and dilute 1:1 with water

• Water the soil around your plants, not the leaves

This version is mild, quick, and won’t stink up your garden.

Blended Peel Feed (for the brave)

If you want to go stronger, blend your peels with water and pour that mix around fruit trees or roses — just bury it lightly under mulch to avoid attracting flies or ants.

How to use banana water wisely

•  Use on tomatoes, peppers, and roses — plants that enjoy a little potassium boost.
• Avoid using it on seedlings, herbs, or indoor plants (it can attract gnats).
• Use it only once or twice a month — it’s not a weekly feed.
• If it smells bad, toss it into the compost instead.
• Always use organic banana peels where possible.

So… is banana water worth it?

In short — yes, but only as a small extra. It’s a fun, waste-free experiment and a great way to start thinking about nutrient cycles in your garden. But the real magic still comes from rich compost, healthy soil, worm tea, comfrey, and slow-release organic fertilizers.

At VanZylStead, we believe every small step toward sustainability counts. So whether your banana peels end up in a jar, a compost pile, or a worm bin — they’re still doing their part to build life back into the soil.

Because at the end of the day, gardening isn’t about quick fixes — it’s about connection, patience, and learning what truly makes your garden thrive