Baking soda — the humble white powder sitting in your kitchen cabinet — is more than just a baking essential or deodorizer. For gardeners, it’s a natural, affordable, and eco-friendly ally that can solve numerous problems in the garden. Let’s explore 12 powerful ways baking soda can work wonders in your green space.
1. Fungus Fighter
If your plants suffer from powdery mildew or black spot, baking soda can help. Mix:
- 1 tablespoon of baking soda
- 1 liter of water
- A few drops of liquid soap (like Castile soap)
Spray this solution weekly on affected plants to keep fungal diseases at bay.
2. Natural Pesticide
Baking soda repels insects like aphids, spider mites, and ants. Spray a solution of:
- 1 tablespoon of baking soda
- 1 liter of water
- 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil
This gentle spray deters pests without harming your plants or beneficial insects.
3. Sweeten Tomato Taste
Baking soda neutralizes soil acidity. Sprinkling a small amount around the base of tomato plants can lead to sweeter fruits. Be cautious — too much can change the soil pH too drastically.
4. Weed Killer for Cracks
Weeds growing in sidewalk cracks or between patio stones? Sprinkle dry baking soda directly on them. It dehydrates the plants, making it an effective natural herbicide.
5. Soil pH Test
Unsure if your soil is acidic? Here’s a quick home test:
- Take 2 soil samples.
- Add vinegar to one (fizzing = alkaline).
- Add baking soda and water to the other (fizzing = acidic).
This gives you a quick idea of soil balance without a kit.
6. Clean Garden Tools
A paste made from baking soda and water can clean your tools, pots, and planters, removing sap, rust, and grime without harsh chemicals.
7. Compost Deodorizer
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