The festive glow of Diwali often leaves behind plastic-packaged gifts, discarded cardboard boxes, clay diyas and wilting puja flowers—but rather than sending them to the bin, you can turn these into sustainable home-garden assets.

According to a recent guide by The Better India, used marigolds and other ceremonial blooms can be fermented into a DIY liquid fertiliser by adding jaggery, storing for about 30 days and then diluting 20 ml in 1 litre of water for use every 15 days.

Plain terracotta diyas can be repurposed as mini-planters, seed starters or tealight holders—just avoid glitter-painted ones for use in the garden. Leftover cardboard packaging can serve as mulch around plants, aid drainage or be shredded into compost to balance carbon content in the bin. By adopting these simple steps you reduce waste, enrich your garden and keep eco-friendly habits part of your home beyond the celebrations.