How to Make Water More Alkaline for Plants

Water is an essential component for the growth and development of plants. In fact, it is one of the primary factors that determine plant health and yield. Most plants thrive in slightly acidic to neutral soil, with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. However, certain types of plants prefer alkaline conditions, with a pH range of 7.5 to 8.5. If you are growing alkaline-loving plants and your water supply is acidic, you may need to find ways to make your water more alkaline. Here are some effective ways to do it:

1. Add Baking Soda

Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, is an effective way to raise the pH of water. To use it, simply add about 1 teaspoon of baking soda to a gallon of water and stir well. Test the pH level of the water using a pH testing kit, which is available in most garden centers. If the pH level is still too low, you can add more baking soda until you reach the desired level. However, be careful not to add too much baking soda, as it can harm the plants.

2. Use Crushed Eggshells

Eggshells are a natural source of calcium carbonate, which can raise the pH of water. To use them, collect the eggshells and crush them into small pieces, then add them to a gallon of water and let them soak for several hours or overnight. The water will absorb the calcium carbonate from the eggshells, which will make it more alkaline. You can also add the crushed eggshells directly to the soil, which will provide the same benefits to the plants.

3. Add Agricultural Lime

Agricultural lime, also known as garden lime, is a popular way to raise the pH of soil and water. It is made from crushed limestone and is available in garden centers. To use it, add about 1 teaspoon of agricultural lime to a gallon of water and stir well. The lime will raise the pH level of the water, making it more alkaline. However, be careful not to use too much lime, as it can harm the plants.

4. Use Dolomite Lime

Dolomite lime is another effective way to raise the pH of water. It is made from pulverized limestone and is available in garden centers. To use it, add about 1 teaspoon of dolomite lime to a gallon of water and stir well. The lime will raise the pH level of the water, making it more alkaline. Dolomite lime also provides magnesium and calcium to the plants, which are essential minerals for their growth and development.

5. Filter Water Through Limestone

Filtering water through limestone is a natural way to make it more alkaline. Limestone is a sedimentary rock that is composed of calcium carbonate and other minerals. When water passes through limestone, it absorbs the calcium carbonate, which raises its pH level. To use this method, place a piece of limestone in a container and pour the water over it. Let the water sit for several hours, or overnight, to allow it to absorb the minerals from the limestone. Remove the limestone and test the pH level of the water using a pH testing kit.

Conclusion

There are several ways to make water more alkaline for plants. Baking soda, crushed eggshells, agricultural lime, dolomite lime, and filtering water through limestone are all effective methods. However, it is important to use these methods in moderation and to test the pH level of the water to ensure that it is at the appropriate level for the plants. With the right pH level, the plants will grow and thrive, producing healthy and beautiful blooms.