If your municipality requires or suggests the use of softened water for watering plants, there are a couple different ways to do so. The most common and effective method is to use a reverse osmosis filter. This type of filter will remove the salt from the water, making it safe for your plants.
Another option is to mix softened water with distilled water in a ratio of 1:1. This will help to dilute the sodium content and make it less harmful to your plants.
- Fill a bucket with softened water
- Place your plants in the sink or bathtub, and slowly pour the bucket of softened water over them
- Let the plants soak for a few minutes, then drain any excess water off of them
- Move the plants back to their regular spot, and enjoy!
WHY YOU SHOULDN'T USE SOFTENED WATER ON YOUR PLANTS
What is Soft Water And Why is It Good for Watering Plants
Soft water is water that has a low mineral content. It is usually produced by reverse osmosis, distillation, or deionization.
One of the benefits of soft water is that it does not contain high levels of calcium and magnesium, which can build up on plant leaves and cause them to turn yellow.
Soft water is also less likely to leave behind soap scum and mineral deposits on surfaces.
Plants generally prefer soft water because it contains fewer dissolved minerals than hard water. When plants are watered with hard water, the minerals can accumulate in the soil and eventually prevent the uptake of other important nutrients.
This can lead to stunted growth or even death.
If you have hard water but want to use it to watering your plants, you can try using a filter or allowing the water to sit for a day or two so that some of the minerals will precipitate out before using it on your plants.
How Do I Soften Water for My Plants
If your plants are wilting and the leaves are drooping, it could be a sign that they’re not getting enough water. But giving them a drink isn’t always as simple as just turning on the faucet. If your water is hard, it can contain high levels of minerals that can build up in the soil and make it difficult for plants to absorb water.
That’s why it’s important to soften water for your plants before you give them a drink.
There are a few different ways to soften water for your plants. One option is to let tap water sit out overnight in an open container so that the chlorine can evaporate.
You can also use distilled or rainwater, which is naturally soft. Or, you can use a water softener to remove minerals from hard water.
Once you’ve softened the water, give your plants a good drink and watch them perk up!
How Often Should I Water My Plants With Softened Water
Assuming you have a standard home water softener, you should water your plants with softened water about once per week. Watering frequency will vary based on the type of plant, its size, the pot it is in, the climate, and how much natural rainfall there is. Generally speaking, most plants need 1-2 inches of water per week.
What are Some Common Problems Associated With Watering Plants With Softened Water
Watering plants with softened water can lead to a number of problems, including:
1. Soil compaction: Softened water contains high levels of sodium, which can compact soil particles and make it difficult for roots to penetrate the soil. This can ultimately lead to decreased growth and reduced plant health.
2. Nutrient imbalances: The high sodium content in softened water can also cause nutrient imbalances in the soil, which can adversely affect plant growth.
3. Leaf burn: The high sodium content in softened water can also cause leaf burn, particularly on sensitive plants such as roses. This problem is compounded by the fact that Sodium interferes with a plant’s ability to take up other nutrients from the soil, further stressing the plant and causing leaf drop or dieback.
Credit: greenerideal.com
How to Remove Salt from Softened Water for Plants
If you’ve ever had the misfortune of watering your plants with softened water, you know that it can leave behind a white, crusty residue. This is salt, and it can build up on your plant leaves and stems over time, eventually causing them to turn brown and die.
The good news is that there’s an easy way to remove salt from softened water before you use it on your plants.
All you need is a simple kitchen strainer.
Here’s how to do it:
1. Fill a large container with softened water.
2. Place the strainer over the top of the container.
3. Pour the softened water into the strainer slowly, allowing it to drip through into the container below.
4. Discard the salty water that remains in the strainer.
5. Water your plants with the fresh, salt-free water as usual.
Conclusion
Watering plants with softened water is a great way to give them the nutrients they need without using harsh chemicals. Softened water is also less likely to damage plant roots and leaves, so your plants will stay healthy and strong.
