Can you water plants with swimming pool water?

Swimming pools are a refreshing and fun way to cool off during the hot summer months. However, pools also require regular maintenance, including the need to replace water lost to evaporation and splashing. This prompts the question of whether you can use swimming pool water to water your plants.

The chemical composition of swimming pool water

Swimming pool water contains various chemicals to maintain the proper pH level and disinfect any harmful bacteria. Typical chemicals found in swimming pool water include chlorine, cyanuric acid, and calcium hardness. These chemicals may not be harmful to humans in the appropriate doses, but can they harm plants?

Potential impact of swimming pool water on plants

The short answer is yes, swimming pool water can harm plants if used without caution. The excess chlorine can upset the balance of the soil and damage plant roots, leading to stunted growth and even death. The high pH level of the pool water can also alter the soil's natural acidity, making it inhospitable to plants that prefer an acid environment. In addition, the high cyanuric acid levels can accumulate and become toxic to plants over time.

Using swimming pool water on plants with caution

While swimming pool water may not be the ideal choice for plants, it can be used safely with proper care. Before using pool water to water your plants, test its pH level to determine if it's too high. If so, you can add vinegar to bring it down to a level that is more suitable for plants. It's also recommended to use pool water on plants that can tolerate a higher pH level, such as sunflowers or cactus. Alternatively, you can also use pool water to water your lawn or other outdoor plants that can handle the chemical content of the water.

Final thoughts

While it's not recommended to use swimming pool water on plants, it can be done with caution and careful consideration. Before using pool water, test its chemical composition and adjust accordingly to ensure that it won't harm your plants. If in doubt, it's best to err on the side of caution and use a more natural water source to water your plants, such as rainwater or tap water. With proper care, your plants can thrive and live a healthy life, even during the hot summer months.