ADVERTISEMENT
Certainly! Here’s a well-crafted and informative article titled:
Baking Soda Is a Gardener’s Best Friend: 10 Clever Uses in the Garden
You might know baking soda as a staple in the kitchen, but did you know it’s also a powerful ally in your garden? This humble white powder, also known as sodium bicarbonate, can help you care for plants, deter pests, prevent disease, and even sweeten your tomatoes — all without the harsh chemicals found in commercial products.
Here are 10 clever ways to use baking soda in your garden that will save you time, money, and effort while keeping your plants healthy and thriving.
1. Natural Fungicide
Fungal diseases like powdery mildew and black spot can quickly spread and damage your plants. Baking soda offers an effective DIY solution.
How to use:
Mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of liquid soap (not detergent), and 1 gallon of water. Spray on affected plants weekly.
Works best on roses, cucumbers, and squash. Always test on a few leaves first.
2. Pest Repellent
Baking soda won’t kill all pests, but it can deter ants, roaches, and cabbage worms.
How to use:
Sprinkle it around the base of plants or mix equal parts baking soda and flour, then dust onto leaves to repel cabbage worms.
3. Sweeten Your Tomatoes
Surprisingly, baking soda can help reduce the acidity in your soil, leading to sweeter tomato fruits.
How to use:
Lightly sprinkle a small amount of baking soda on the soil around tomato plants (not directly on the plant). Water as usual. Use sparingly to avoid over-alkalizing the soil.
4. Weed Killer
Baking soda can act as a natural weed suppressant, especially in cracks and crevices where unwanted plants pop up.
How to use:
Sprinkle full-strength baking soda directly onto weeds in sidewalks or patios. Avoid using near garden plants, as it may affect their growth too.
5. Clean Garden Tools and Pots
Dirty tools can spread disease. Baking soda makes a safe and effective cleaning agent.
How to use:
Make a paste of baking soda and water, scrub onto tools or pots, rinse thoroughly, and dry. It helps remove sap, dirt, and rust.
6. Freshen Compost Bins
Compost is great for the garden but can sometimes get a little… ripe.
How to use:
Sprinkle baking soda lightly over your compost pile or bin to reduce odors. Don’t overdo it, as too much can slow decomposition.
7. Keep Cut Flowers Fresh
Want your flower arrangements to last longer? Baking soda can help extend their beauty.
How to use:
Add 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda and a pinch of sugar to a vase of water to keep cut flowers fresher, longer.
8. Test Soil pH
Baking soda is a quick way to get a general sense of your soil’s pH without a test kit.
How to use:
Take a small soil sample, add water to make a muddy paste, and sprinkle baking soda on top. If it fizzes, your soil is likely acidic.
Tip: This works best in combination with a vinegar test to check alkalinity.
