Can Distilled Water Be Used to Water Plants?

Water is essential for the growth and survival of plants. The quality of water used in watering plants is equally important as it affects the plants' growth and overall health. One type of water that's commonly available is distilled water. Distilled water is purified by boiling water, capturing the steam, and condensing it back into water. The end product is pure water with no minerals or impurities. But the question remains, can distilled water be used to water plants?

The Pros of Using Distilled Water to Water Plants

One of the benefits of using distilled water to water plants is that it's free of impurities such as chlorine, minerals, and fluoride that can harm plants. Consequently, distilled water can help avoid the accumulation of mineral salts in soil, which can eventually damage the plant roots. This makes distilled water ideal for watering plants that are sensitive to minerals such as orchids, ferns, and carnivorous plants.

The Cons of Using Distilled Water to Water Plants

While distilled water has several advantages, there are also cons to consider. Since distilled water lacks minerals, it isn't the best water for plants that require these minerals for healthy growth. Minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium are essential for plant growth and development. A deficiency in any of these minerals can lead to stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and other problems. Distilled water may not provide these minerals, making it unsuitable for plants that require them.

The Best Way to Use Distilled Water to Water Plants

For plants that require minerals, it's best to use distilled water in combination with tap water to create a blend that's rich in both minerals and pure. Typically, a 50-50 blend of distilled water and tap water is ideal for plants that need both. Another way to add minerals to distilled water is by adding a water-soluble fertilizer such as seaweed extract or fish emulsion that contains the necessary minerals essential for plant growth.

The Bottom Line

Distilled water can be used to water plants, but it's not always the best option for all plants. It's essential to consider the mineral requirements of plants before using distilled water. For plants that require minerals, it's best to create a blend of distilled water and tap water or supplement distilled water with water-soluble fertilizers. By doing so, you can achieve the best of both worlds – pure water that's free of impurities and minerals that are essential for plant growth.