Can You Use a Dishwasher to Water Plants?

Watering plants is one of the most important tasks in gardening. It helps the plants grow healthy and beautiful. But sometimes, we tend to forget about watering them due to our busy schedules. Luckily, there are a few ways we can make watering plants a little bit easier. One method that has been discussed frequently is using dishwasher water to water plants. But is it really a good idea? Let's find out.

What is Dishwasher Water?

Dishwasher water is the water that is used in the dishwasher to clean dishes. It is also known as graywater or sullage. The water comes from the kitchen sink and is used to clean dishes which makes it contain grease, food particles, soap, and dirty water.

Is Dishwasher Water Safe for Plants?

The answer is not that simple. Dishwasher water can be used to water plants, but not all plants. Plants that are sensitive to chemicals and plants that require low pH levels should not be watered with dishwasher water. Dishwasher water can contain chemicals like sodium, chloride, and phosphate that could damage plant roots and soil. Moreover, it can be too alkaline or too acidic for some plants.

What Plants Can You Water with Dishwasher Water?

There are some plants that can tolerate dishwasher water. These plants are usually hardy and can withstand harsh conditions. Some of the plants that you can water with dishwasher water are fruit trees, nut trees, pecan trees, blackberry bushes, grape vines, and some vegetables like onions and garlic.

How to Use Dishwasher Water on Plants?

Before using dishwasher water on plants, make sure to filter out the food particles and soap. You can use a colander to do this. Moreover, give the water time to settle and let the food particles sink to the bottom of the container. This way, you can use the clear water on your plants.

Conclusion

Using dishwasher water to water plants may seem like a good idea to save water and go green, but it is not recommended for all plants. Make sure to use it only on hardy plants that are tolerant to chemicals and high or low pH levels.