Baking soda, a common household item, has several ingenious uses in the garden. Here are 10 ways you can use baking soda to benefit your garden:
- Fungicide:
- Mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda, 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, and a few drops of dish soap in a gallon of water. Spray this solution on plants affected by fungal diseases like powdery mildew.
- Natural Pesticide:
- Baking soda can help control common garden pests. Mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda with a few drops of insecticidal soap in a liter of water and spray it on plants to deter pests.
- Weed Killer:
- Sprinkle baking soda on weeds growing in cracks or between pavers. It helps dehydrate and kill the weeds. Be cautious when using it near desirable plants, as it can affect them as well.
- Tomato Sweetener:
- Sprinkle a small amount of baking soda around the base of tomato plants. It can help reduce acidity in the soil and enhance the sweetness of the tomatoes.
- Soil pH Adjustment:
- Baking soda can act as a mild alkaline substance. If your soil is too acidic, you can use baking soda sparingly to raise the pH. However, it’s essential to monitor pH levels to avoid overcorrection.
- Athlete’s Foot Fungus Control for Seedlings:
- Mix a small amount of baking soda with water and apply it to seedlings to help prevent damping-off disease, a common fungal issue in young plants.
- Odor Absorber in Compost Bin:
- Sprinkle baking soda in your compost bin to help control odors. It can neutralize acidic odors and contribute to a more balanced composting environment.
- Sweeten Sour Soil for Brassicas:
- Brassica crops, like cabbage and broccoli, prefer slightly sweet (alkaline) soil. Baking soda can be sprinkled around these plants to help adjust the soil pH.
- Clean Garden Tools:
- Mix baking soda with water to create a paste, then use it to clean and scrub your garden tools. It helps remove dirt and rust, leaving them clean and in good condition.
- Deter Rabbits and Pests:
- Sprinkle baking soda around vulnerable plants to deter rabbits and some other pests. The scent can be unpleasant for them and may keep them away.
Important Tips:
- Use baking soda sparingly, as excessive amounts can harm plants and soil.
- Conduct a soil test before adjusting pH to ensure you’re not making unnecessary changes.
- Always test any new solution on a small area before applying it extensively.
Baking soda can be a versatile and cost-effective tool in the gardener’s arsenal, but it’s crucial to use it thoughtfully and in moderation. Experiment and observe the effects to ensure that it benefits your specific gardening needs.
