If you think baking soda is just for baking and freshening up your fridge, think again. This indispensable household item also has incredible power in the garden – and without the harmful chemicals, high costs or complicated procedures.
Due to its physical and chemical properties, baking soda is increasingly used in natural gardening – as a natural fungicide, pesticide, fertilizer, and even as a means to enhance flower arrangements. Below, we present proven ways to use it effectively in your garden.
Using baking soda in the garden: expert approaches
1. Natural pest repellent
For gardens struggling with insects and worms, you can prepare a simple mixture baking soda and flour in equal proportions. Sprinkle the mixture directly on the affected areas.
To control ant colonies, use 5 tablespoons of baking soda and 5 tablespoons of powdered sugar. Sprinkle the mixture over active ant colonies. The sugar attracts the ants, and the baking soda disrupts their digestive system, leading to their elimination without the use of toxic chemicals.
2. Fungicide and invasive weed control agent
Baking soda acts as a natural fungicide. Make a paste of baking soda and enough water to make a thick paste. Apply it directly to the areas where the signs are present. fungal infections or to areas where unwanted weeds are growing. The paste reduces the presence of mold, fungi and some types of lichen and limits the spread of disease.
3. Natural insecticide spray
To control insects on plants, prepare a natural spray with the following mixture:
- 1 liter of water
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon of natural soap
Mix all ingredients well and pour the mixture into a spray bottle. Apply the solution to the leaves, stems and flowers every other day until the problem disappears. This preparation has a mechanical and chemical effect on pests, while being safe for plants and the environment.
4. Flower preservation agent
Baking soda prolongs the freshness of cut flowers. Mix it with water and spray the flowers with the solution. The result is less oxidation and longer lasting flowers, which is especially useful in arrangements and bouquets intended for decoration.
5. Natural soil pH regulator and fertilizer
Baking soda acts as a soil acidity regulator. Overly acidic soil can inhibit the growth of many types of vegetables and fruits. By sprinkling small amounts of baking soda evenly around the root system of plants, you can reduce the acidity of the soil. This makes it easier for plants to access nutrients, which leads to a better harvest - tastier fruits and richer vegetables.
Conclusion
Baking soda is a versatile, affordable, and environmentally friendly tool that can become an indispensable part of your gardening routine. Used correctly, it can effectively control many common garden problems – from pests to fungus and poor yields. We recommend that you introduce its use gradually and sparingly, and always test it on small areas first.
Natural solutions like baking soda prove that simple ingredients from everyday life can also play a key role in organic and sustainable gardening.
