Can You Pour Flower Water on Plants?

If you have ever received a bouquet of flowers as a gift, you may have wondered what to do with the water in the vase once the flowers have wilted. Perhaps you have wondered if it is safe or even beneficial to use this water to water your houseplants. In this article, we will explore whether or not pouring flower water on plants is a good idea.

What is in Flower Water?

Before we can determine if it is safe to use flower water on plants, we must first understand what is in it. Flower water typically consists of plain water and a small amount of plant food, which is designed to help the cut flowers last longer. Some flower preservatives may also contain bleach, sugar, or citric acid.

Will Flower Water Harm Your Plants?

The good news is that pouring flower water on your plants is unlikely to harm them. The plant food in the water may even provide a slight nutrient boost to your plants. However, you should not rely on flower water as your primary means of watering your plants. The small amount of plant food in flower water may not be enough to sustain your plants over the long term, and the bleach or citric acid in some preservatives could harm your plants if used in excess.

What About Using Flower Petals in Compost?

Another way to use your wilting flowers is to add the petals to your compost pile. The petals will decompose along with your other compost materials and add nutrients to your soil. However, it is important to avoid adding any flowers that have been treated with pesticides, as these chemicals can harm the beneficial organisms in your compost pile.

Conclusion

Pouring flower water on your plants is unlikely to harm them and may even provide a slight nutrient boost. However, it should not be your primary means of watering your plants, and you should avoid using flower water that contains bleach or citric acid. Instead, use a well-balanced fertilizer and regular watering to keep your plants healthy. And don't forget to add your flower petals to your compost pile!