How to Remove Salts from Potted Plants

Salts can build up in the soil of potted plants over time, leading to poor growth and health problems for the plant. If you notice white crusty deposits on the surface of the soil or the leaves of the plant are turning yellow or brown, it may be time to remove the excess salts from the soil. Here are some effective methods to remove salts from potted plants:

1. Leaching

Leaching is a simple but effective method for removing excess salts from the soil. To do this, you’ll need to water your plant thoroughly with distilled or rainwater until water flows from the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot. Allow the water to drain completely, and then repeat the process again two or three times. This will flush out the excess salts along with any other soluble minerals that may have accumulated in the soil.

2. Repotting

If your plant is severely affected by salt buildup or the soil is too compacted, repotting may be necessary. To repot your plant, gently remove it from the pot and loosen the soil around the roots. Shake off any excess soil and rinse the roots thoroughly with water to remove the accumulated salts. Repot the plant in fresh soil mix, and make sure to use a pot with good drainage holes to prevent salt buildup.

3. Gypsum

Gypsum is a natural soil amendment that can help to loosen compacted soil and reduce the buildup of salts. Mix gypsum into the soil at a rate of 1 pound per 5 square feet of soil, and then water the soil thoroughly. Gypsum will help to break down the clay particles in the soil, allowing water and nutrients to penetrate deeper into the soil and reducing the amount of salt that accumulates.

4. Fertilizer Selection

Using the right type of fertilizer can also help to prevent salt buildup in potted plants. Avoid using fertilizers that contain high amounts of sodium, such as manure or seaweed fertilizer. Instead, opt for fertilizers that are low in sodium and high in other essential nutrients, such as phosphorus, potassium, and nitrogen.

5. Distilled Water

Using distilled water to water your plants can also help to reduce salt buildup in the soil. Distilled water is free from minerals and salts, so it won’t add to the accumulation of salts in the soil. If you have a large number of plants, using distilled water can be costly, but it’s an effective option if you can afford it.

Conclusion

Preventing salt buildup in potted plants is important to maintain their health and growth. You can use leaching, repotting, gypsum, fertilizer selection, and distilled water to remove excess salts from the soil and prevent them from accumulating again. Make sure to monitor your plants regularly for signs of salt buildup, and take action immediately if you notice any problems.