Introduction

Softened water is an increasingly popular choice for homeowners, as it has a variety of benefits ranging from better-tasting water to improved skin and hair health. However, when it comes to plants, softened water is not an appropriate choice. In fact, using softened water can be detrimental to the health of plants. This article will explore why softened water is bad for plants and what you can do to better care for your greenery.

What is Softened Water?

Before delving into why softened water is bad for plants, it's important to understand what exactly softened water is. In brief, softened water is water that has had the minerals (primarily calcium and magnesium) removed, usually through a process called ion exchange. This makes the water "softer," or less hard.

The Negative Impact of Softened Water on Plants

Unfortunately, while softened water may be good for humans, it is not good for plants. This is because the minerals that are removed from the water during the softening process are actually essential for plant growth. Calcium, for example, helps to build cell walls and is involved in many cellular processes. Magnesium is also crucial, as it is a component of chlorophyll, which is necessary for photosynthesis.

Without these minerals, plants are more susceptible to a variety of health problems. In particular, they may appear stunted or discolored. They may also be more susceptible to disease, as their immune systems are compromised without the proper nutrients.

Alternative Watering Methods for Plants

If you want to care for your plants properly, it's important to avoid using softened water. One alternative is to collect rainwater, which is naturally "soft" and contains the minerals that plants need. You can set up a rain barrel or other collection system to capture rainwater for use on your plants. Just be sure to use it within a few days, as stagnant water can harbor bacteria and other harmful substances.

If collecting rainwater isn't an option, you can also use tap water that has not been softened. This may require installing a bypass or other mechanism to ensure that the water isn't run through your water softener before being used on plants.

Conclusion

While softened water may be good for humans, it is not good for plants. The minerals that are removed during the softening process are essential for plant growth, and without them, plants may suffer from a variety of health problems. If you want to care for your plants properly, consider alternative watering methods such as collecting rainwater or using tap water that has not been softened.