Alkaline water has a pH level of 8 or above. This means that it is less acidic than tap water, which has a pH level of around 7. Alkaline water is often touted as a healthy way to hydrate. Some research suggests that alkaline water can help plants grow faster and produce more fruit.
The benefits of alkaline water are still being researched, but some believe that it can improve the health of plants. The high pH level helps to break down nutrients in the soil, making them easier for plants to absorb. Alkaline water can also help to protect plants from pests and diseases.
How Does Alkaline Water Affect Plants Growth?
Soil that is too alkaline can cause nutrient deficiencies in plants because the nutrients become less available to them. This can lead to stunted growth, yellow leaves, and even death in extreme cases. On the other hand, watering plants with water that is too acidic can also cause problems because it can chemically burn their roots.
The best way to avoid these problems is to always test the pH of your water before watering your plants with it. This can be easily done with an inexpensive pH testing kit from your local garden center or hardware store. Once you know the pH of your water, you can adjust it accordingly to make sure it’s in the ideal range for your plants.
Research on Alkaline Water and Plants
A 2012 study published in the Korean Journal of Horticultural Science and Technology examined the effects of alkaline water on the growth of four different types of plants: radishes, lettuce, spinach, and chives. The researchers found that alkaline water improved the germination rate, growth rate, and leaf area of all four plant types (1).
A 2013 study published in the International Journal of Agriculture and Biology had similar findings. The study looked at the effects of alkaline water on the germination and growth of mung beans, lentils, chickpeas, and green beans. The researchers found that alkaline water increased the germination rate and growth of all four plant types (2).
It’s important to note that both of these studies were done in controlled laboratory settings using highly purified alkaline water. It’s unclear if the same results would be seen with less-purified alkaline water or in real-world conditions. More research is needed to understand how alkaline water affects plant growth under different circumstances.
What is Alkaline Water and How Does it Differ From Regular Water?
The pH level of water is a measure of how acidic or alkaline it is. Pure water has a pH of 7, which is considered neutral. Anything with a pH below 7 is considered acidic, while anything above 7 is considered alkaline.
Most plants prefer soil that is slightly acidic, with a pH of 6.5 or lower. However, there are some exceptions, such as hydrangeas, which actually prefer slightly alkaline soil with a pH of 7.5. When it comes to watering your plants with alkaline water, the key is to match the pH of the water to the preference of the plant.
Are There Any Benefits To Using Alkaline Water For Plants ?
It’s a common question gardeners have, and one that doesn’t have a straightforward answer. On the one hand, some people swear by alkaline water as a way to give their plants a boost. They often say that it makes their plants grow faster and healthier. On the other hand, there is little scientific evidence to support these claims.
So what’s the verdict? Is alkaline water really good for plants, or is it just a waste of time and money?
Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of using alkaline water for plants.
Pros of Using Alkaline Water for Plants
1. Alkaline Water Can Help To Balance The pH Of Soil.
If your soil is too acidic or too alkaline, it can be difficult for plants to absorb nutrients. This can lead to poor plant growth and even death. Alkaline water can help to neutralize overly acidic soil, making it more hospitable for plants.
2. Alkaline Water Can Help To Reduce The Chances Of fungal infections.
Fungal infections are a common problem in gardens, and they can be difficult to treat. Alkaline water can help to prevent these infections from taking hold, as fungi thrive in acidic conditions.
3. Alkaline water can help to dissolve mineral deposits in the soil.
Over time, minerals can build up in soil and make it harder for plants to absorb nutrients. Alkaline water can help to break down these mineral deposits, making it easier for plants to get the nutrition they need.
Cons of Using Alkaline Water for Plants
1. Alkaline water can kill helpful bacteria in soil.
Soil contains beneficial bacteria that help plants to absorb nutrients. However, alkaline water can kill these helpful bacteria. This can lead to nutrient deficiencies and poor plant growth.
2. Alkaline water can make it difficult for plants to take up water.
Plants need water to survive, but they can only absorb water if the soil is not too alkaline. When the soil is too alkaline, it can cause the plant’s roots to close up, making it difficult for the plant to take up water.
3. Alkaline water can leach nutrients from plants.
Alkaline water can actually remove nutrients from plants, rather than providing them. This can lead to nutrient deficiencies and stunted growth.
Should You Use Alkaline Water for Plants?
The verdict is still out on whether or not alkaline water is good for plants. There are some potential benefits, but there are also some significant risks. If you decide to use alkaline water for your plants, be sure to monitor them closely for any signs of stress or nutrient deficiencies. And, as always, consult with a professional if you have any questions or concerns.
How Can You Make Your Own Alkaline Water?
If you’re interested in trying alkaline water for your plants, there are a few different ways you can make your own.
1. Use baking soda.
Baking soda is a common household ingredient that can raise the pH of water. To use it, simply add 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda to 1 gallon of water. Stir well and allow the baking soda to dissolve completely.
2. Use lime juice.
Lime juice is another ingredient that can raise the pH of water. To use it, mix 1/4 cup of lime juice with 1 gallon of water. stir well and allow the lime juice to dissolve completely.
3. Use wood ashes.
Wood ashes can also be used to raise the pH of water. To use them, simply add 1/2 cup of wood ashes to 1 gallon of water. Stir well and allow the wood ashes to dissolve completely.
4. Use commercial alkaline water products.
There are a number of commercial alkaline water products available on the market. These products typically contain a mix of baking soda, lime juice, and wood ashes.
When using any of these methods, be sure to test the pH of the water before using it on your plants. This will help you to avoid making the water too alkaline, which can be just as harmful as not alkaline enough.
What Are Some Of The Best Ways To Use Alkaline Water For Plants?
1. Use it for watering.
One of the best ways to use alkaline water for plants is to simply use it for watering. This will help to raise the pH of the soil and make it more hospitable for plants.
2. Use it for misting.
Misting plants with alkaline water can help to prevent fungal infections and disease. It can also help to dissolve mineral deposits in the soil, making it easier for plants to take up nutrients.
3. Use it for foliar feeding.
Foliar feeding is a method of applying nutrients directly to the leaves of plants. This can be a great way to give plants a boost of nutrition, and it can also help to prevent problems like leaf spot and powdery mildew.
4. Use it for making compost tea.
Compost tea is a great way to provide plants with beneficial bacteria and fungi. It can also help to raise the pH of the soil, making it more hospitable for plants. To make compost tea, simply steep a handful of compost in a bucket of alkaline water for 24 hours.
5. Use it for making liquid fertilizer.
Liquid fertilizer is a great way to give plants a quick boost of nutrients. It’s also easy to make yourself using alkaline water. Simply mix 1 part liquid fertilizer with 10 parts alkaline water.
No matter how you decide to use it, be sure to test the pH of the water before using it on your plants. This will help you to avoid making the water too alkaline, which can be just as harmful as not alkaline enough.
Conclusion
While there are some potential benefits to using alkaline water for plants, there are also some significant risks. If you decide to use alkaline water for your plants, be sure to monitor them closely for any signs of stress or nutrient deficiencies. And, as always, consult with a professional if you have any questions or concerns.