The issue of water conservation is becoming increasingly important, especially in the summer when consumption increases.
Many gardeners think about reusing water, for example after washing or bathing, to water plants.
But is it safe for our green pets? Let's find out.
Soapy water is water that contains soap or detergent residue.
It forms after household processes such as washing clothes, washing dishes or bathing.
The composition of soapy water may vary depending on the products used and their concentration.
Using soapy water to water plants can carry certain risks:
Alkaline reaction: Soap has an alkaline reaction, which can change the pH of the soil, making it less suitable for some plants.
Chemical Build-Up: Modern cleaning products contain phosphates, sulfates and other chemicals that can build up in the soil and negatively affect plant growth.
Root Damage: High concentrations of soap can burn roots, causing plants to wilt and die.
There is a belief that soapy water can help control certain pests such as aphids or spider mites.
However, the effectiveness of this method has not been proven by scientific research, and its use should be considered with caution.
If you decide to use soapy water for irrigation, follow these recommendations:
Use natural soap: preference should be given to laundry or baby soap without additives and fragrances.
Dilute with water: Before watering, dilute soapy water with clean water in a ratio of at least 1:3 to reduce the alkali concentration.
Check soil pH: Measure the acidity of your soil regularly to avoid making it alkaline.
Avoid watering edible crops: Avoid using soapy water to water vegetables, fruits and herbs to prevent the build-up of harmful substances in food products.
Experts' opinion
Many agronomists and gardeners agree that using soapy water to water plants is not recommended.
The risks associated with changing soil pH and chemical build-up outweigh the potential benefits.
It is better to use clean water or special organic fertilizers for garden and vegetable garden care.
