Gardening experts share the benefitsand sometimes disadvantagesof using epsom salts on your plants.
Many gardeners turn to Epsom salt in an effort to get their potted plants and gardens to thrive.
But should you use Epsom salt on your plants?
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What Does Epsom Salt Do for Plants?
Whether you should probably apply Epsom salt depends on the state of the soil and plants."
“As you could see, Epsom saltmagnesium sulfateincludes two of those lesser macronutrients,” he says.
“Epsom salt will help your plants absorb all the other nutrients from the soil,” he says.
Epsom salt can prevent this by providing the necessary magnesium.
Since Epsom salt promotes chlorophyll production, it can also help make the foliage green and lush.
Some gardeners also report that Epsom salt helps increase flower and fruit production.
Epsom salt is also beneficial for potted vegetables.
Excessive use of magnesium sulfate can also contaminate local water sources."
“You should use [Epsom salt] sparingly and only twice during the growing period.
She also advises inspecting your plants for signs of magnesium deficiency.
“The edges of leaves may turn yellow, orange, red, or dark red.”
How Do You Use Epsom Salt on Plants?
So, how do you apply Epsom salt if your plants need it?
There are actually a couple of ways you might use it on your plants.
Its best to use unscented, plain Epsom salt for internal and external use on plants.
This method is particularly effective for quickly treating magnesium deficiency.
“To prepare an Epsom salt solution, mix 12 tablespoons of Epsom salt with one gallon of water.
you could use this solution to spray the leaves or water the soil,” she says.
“It’s important to remember that different plant species have varying leaf thickness.
Some have thicker protective layers, while others are more delicate and sensitive to treatment.”
If you notice spots, add more water to the solution to dilute it.
Perform the treatment once a month.
So, similar to seasoning your food, you don’t want to get your plants too salty.
