Can You Water Plants with Chlorinated Pool Water?

Swimming pools are a great way to cool off during hot summer days. However, many pool owners often wonder what to do with the chlorine-treated water once swimming season is over. Can it be used to water plants, or will it harm them?

The Short Answer

The short answer is yes, you can water your plants with chlorinated pool water. However, it's not ideal for them. Chlorine is a chemical that kills bacteria and other microorganisms, including the beneficial ones that help your plants grow. High levels of chlorine in the water can also cause burning of the plant leaves and roots.

How Chlorine Affects Plants

Chlorine can be harmful to plants in large amounts. When you water your plants with chlorinated pool water, the chlorine will start to kill beneficial bacteria in the soil, which can alter soil fertility. Over time this will decrease soil productivity and make it harder for plants to grow. Chlorine will also build up in the soil over time, making it difficult if not impossible to grow plants in that area.

How to Use Chlorinated Pool Water Safely

If you have no other water source available, you can still use chlorinated pool water to water your plants. However, you need to use it in moderation and dilute it with tap water before using it. A 10% pool water-90% tap water mix is recommended to avoid burning your plants. It's best to water your plants with chlorine-free water as much as possible to ensure their overall health and productivity.

Alternative Options for Plant Watering

If you're concerned about the effects of chlorinated pool water on your plants, there are other options for watering them. Rainwater is an excellent alternative because it's naturally free of chemicals and minerals. You can set up a rainwater collection system or invest in a rain barrel to collect rainfall from your roof. You can also use tap water but let the water sit out for a day or two to allow the chlorine to dissipate before using it to water your plants.

Conclusion

While it's possible to water plants with chlorinated pool water, it's not recommended for the overall health of your plants. If you have no other choice, be sure to dilute the water and use it in moderation. Otherwise, look for an alternative water source such as rainwater or let your tap water sit out for a day or two to ensure it's chlorine-free before using it to water your plants.