Many everyday kitchen scraps can be repurposed instead of ending up in the bin, and cherry pits are no exception. With a little preparation, they can be reused around the house, in the garden, and even in the kitchen.
Translation | Amaryllis Tsegou
Add them to plant pots
If you grow plants in pots, cherry pits can be used as a natural drainage layer. Wash them thoroughly and let them dry completely before placing them at the bottom of the pot. Add the soil and then your plant. The pits help excess water drain away more easily, reducing the risk of root rot.
Help the soil retain moisture
Cherry pits can also be scattered over the surface of the soil around your plants. They help the soil retain moisture for longer while discouraging weed growth. It's a simple, natural solution that doesn't cost a thing.
Make a DIY heat pad
If you enjoy DIY projects, fill a small fabric pouch with clean, dry cherry pits. Heat it in the microwave for about 90 seconds and you'll have a homemade heat pad that stays warm for quite some time. It's perfect for soothing tired muscles after a long day or simply warming your hands in winter.
Put them to use in the kitchen
Not many people know this, but dried cherry pits can be used as pie weights when blind-baking a tart crust. If you have a barbecue, they can also be used as a natural fire starter, as they burn slowly and release a subtle aroma.
Try growing a cherry tree
If you enjoy gardening, save a few cherry pits and try germinating them. With the right preparation and a little patience, they can sprout into young cherry trees that you can later transplant into a larger pot or directly into the garden.
What to keep in mind
Before reusing cherry pits, wash off any remaining fruit and allow them to dry completely. This helps prevent mold from developing and makes them easier to store until you're ready to use them.
