Banana Peels & Rose Bushes

The Truth

• A popular garden remedy in the 18th century, placing banana peels in the bottom of the hole when planting actually has a lot of merit. Banana peels have many essential nutrients, such as phosphorus, calcium and magnesium. Several peels placed in the bottom of the hole rot quickly, making the minerals available to rose roots.

Benefits

• Phosphorus is a macronutrient -- the P in N-P-K. Phosphorus is essential for cell development in new plant parts. It aids in photosynthesis and helps move photosynthetic energy through the plant. It is also essential in root and seed development. Calcium is needed for root development and root function. Plant growth and fruit development are hampered by inadequate calcium. Magnesium facilitates the transport of sugar energy from leaves to the rest of the plant. It also aids in phosphorus uptake and distribution.

Alternatives

• Trying banana peels when planting roses is a great idea, but gardeners don't always have a ready supply of them, especially when planting large quantities. Bone meal, a byproduct of the poultry industry, is made from ground and steamed bones. It is high in calcium and phosphorus. Use bone meal in the middle and bottom of the planting hole where roots can easily access it. Magnesium can be found in Epsom salts, which can be dissolved in water for root feeding.

Tips

• Phosphorus is naturally found in many garden soils, so use all products according to label directions to avoid overapplication. Most rose fertilizers contain adequate nutrients for plant growth and bud production. Banana peels make an excellent addition to the compost pile, where their minerals will become part of the completed compost. Crushed egg shells and pulverized crab or oyster shells -- where available -- are excellent substitutes for bone meal and can be added to compost.