Why do Plants Like Rain Water Better?

Plants are incredibly fascinating organisms that thrive on a combination of various factors to grow and develop properly. One of the essential elements that plants need to survive and flourish is water. In this article, we explore why plants prefer rainwater over other sources of water.

The Chemistry of Rainwater

Rainwater is a unique and exceptional source of water that contains naturally dissolved nutrients that plants need to grow. The water that falls from the sky is free of any chemical additives that may be present in ground or tap water. Governmental water treatment facilities add chemicals like chlorine and fluoride to ground and tap water to make it safe for human consumption. These additives can have adverse effects on plant growth and development by altering the pH level of the soil.

The Temperature of Rain Water

Rainwater is also cooler than tap water or ground water. The cooler temperature is an especially positive factor for plants, as it helps keep the soil moisture level consistent. Tap or ground water may be too warm or too cold, leading to a sudden change in soil moisture levels that can damage delicate plant roots. As a result, plants prefer rainwater, as it is pure and stays at a consistent temperature in most cases.

The Soil Nutrients Rainwater Provides

Another compelling reason why plants like rainwater better is that it contains essential nutrients like nitrogen, sulfur, and phosphorus, among others. These nutrients are essential building blocks for plant growth and development. They help increase plant vigor, improve the plant's root system, and improve overall plant health.

Rain Water Vs. Tap Water

While it is true that tap water is convenient and readily available, it has some drawbacks. One significant issue with tap water is the presence of mineral deposits. The presence of chlorine and fluorine in tap water makes it unsafe for plants' continuous use, as these chemicals can cause soil pH levels to become unbalanced.

Additionally, tap water's chemical content can cause mineral deposits to build up on the soil's surface, leading to a reduction in soil quality. Over time, the accumulation of mineral deposits can negatively affect plant growth and development by making it difficult for the roots to absorb water and essential nutrients.

Conclusion

There are several reasons why plants like rainwater better than other sources of water. It is cooler, free of chemicals that can harm plant growth, and contains essential nutrients that plants need to thrive. Though tap water may be more readily available, it is essential to note the negative effects it can have on plants' well-being. Therefore, if you can collect rainwater and use it to water your plants, you can help them thrive and flourish without any damaging chemicals or minerals present in the water.