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Banana Peels Can Even Shine Your Shoes

©By Deborah S. Tukua www.hollycreekbooks.com

The next time you reach for a banana, don’t discard the peel. It has multiple uses, from soothing mosquito bites to shining shoes. Just read on:

Mosquito bites: Before reaching for the insect bite ointment, try rubbing the inside of a banana skin on the affected area. It has been reported by many at reducing swelling and irritation.

Warts: A natural wart remedy. Cut a small piece of banana skin and place it on the wart, with the yellow side out. Tape the skin with surgical tape.

Shoe Shine: Rub the inside of the banana skin directly on the shoe and polish with dry cloth. (I heard this hint years ago from radio host, Paul Harvey.) ·

Soil Enrichment: Adding banana peels to the soil helps tomato and green pepper plants to thrive. Banana peels contain potash and phosphorus. Chop peels and place several pieces into the hole before planting the seedlings and you’ll have strong trunks and stems on your plants. (Tip excertped from Pearls of Garden Wisdom.)

Rose Booster: Give your roses a boost by placing banana skins in a spray bottle with warm water. Allow the sealed bottle to sit at least 2 weeks or until fermented. Spray the liquid on rose bushes. (Tip excerpted from Pearls of Garden Wisdom.)

Liquid Plant Fertilizer: In a blender puree 1 part banana peelings along with 3 parts water. Pour liquid blend on the soil surrounding your garden flowers or potted plants. It makes a great boost for indoor container plants, too. (Tip excerpted from Pearls of Garden Wisdom.)

Animal Feed: Our mule Sally and horse, Apache love to snack on banana peelings. Don’t forget to remove the sticker first!

More unique and resourceful gardening tips abound in Pearls of Garden Wisdom by Deborah S. Tukua and Vicki West.