Six Innovative Uses for Urine in Your Garden

The average adult produces about 130 gallons of urine annually, which can be a valuable resource for gardening. Here are six creative applications for this “liquid gold”:

1. Fertilize Your Crops

Urine is a potent natural fertilizer with a rich nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium (N-P-K) ratio of 11-1-2.5.

  • How to Use: Dilute urine by mixing 10-20 parts water with 1 part fresh urine.
  • Application: Apply around plants within 24 hours of collection to enhance growth.

2. Revive Your Compost

Urine is rich in nitrogen, which can invigorate sluggish compost piles.

  • How to Use: Pour your morning urine directly onto the compost pile without dilution.
  • Application: Turn the pile and monitor the temperature to ensure proper decomposition.

3. Tackle Weeds

Undiluted urine can act as a strong herbicide due to its urea content.

  • How to Use: Use it as a spot treatment for stubborn weeds, dousing them generously or applying daily.
  • Caution: Avoid widespread application to protect desired plants and soil.

4. Combat Fungal Diseases

Diluted urine can serve as an effective antifungal treatment.

  • How to Use: Mix a 4:1 water-to-urine ratio and apply to fruit trees and berry bushes in the fall and spring.
  • Application: Repeat as needed until fungal blights diminish.

5. Expedite Tree Stump Decomposition

Urine can help accelerate the natural decomposition of tree stumps.

  • How to Use: Drill holes into the stump’s surface, soak with water, and pour undiluted urine into the holes.
  • Application: Cover with a tarp or mulch and add fresh urine weekly.

6. Mark Your Territory

Urine can deter animals from invading your garden.

  • How to Use: Collect hormone-rich morning urine and splash it on elevated surfaces like tree trunks and fence posts.
  • Application: Reapply regularly and after rainfall for effectiveness.

By integrating these innovative techniques, you can maximize the benefits of urine in your garden, from promoting plant growth to enhancing compost, controlling weeds, preventing diseases, accelerating stump decomposition, and deterring wildlife. Happy gardening!