Kitchen by-products can be used as fertiliser

Gardeners have been told they can make use of certain kitchen by-products as cost-effective fertilisers.

US website 6abc.com distributed a number of useful tips on how to get the best from plants growing both in the garden and under glass in the greenhouse.

The online resource recommends using a mixture of two tablespoons of white vinegar with two pints of water to fertilise outdoor plants.

It suggests some flowers "love acidic soil" and explains the nutrients in vinegar also mean it can be used on indoor plants.

Varieties growing in the greenhouse need a more diluted mixture of one tablespoon combined with a gallon of water.

The website advised horticulturalists to work their used coffee grounds into the soil to help boost nutrient levels – something that can also be achieved by introducing crushed eggshells.

Another hint suggested by the author is spreading cinnamon around the base of peony plants to help ward off fungus growth.

In other news, the Royal Horticultural Society is set to host its renowned Chelsea Flower Show later this month, featuring at least ten charity gardens.