Is Seltzer Water Good for Plants?

Plant lovers have probably wondered if they can use seltzer water on their indoor or outdoor garden. Given its high carbon dioxide content, it's natural to wonder if seltzer water could be beneficial or harmful to plants. In this article, we will look at the science behind seltzer water and its effect on plants.

Seltzer Water Composition

Seltzer water is carbonated water that contains dissolved carbon dioxide. It's made by pressurizing carbon dioxide gas into water, which results in a bubbly drink with a fizzy texture. Seltzer water doesn't contain any sweeteners or calories, and it's often used as a refreshing drink or as a mixer in various cocktails.

The Effect of Carbon Dioxide on Plants

Carbon dioxide is essential for plant growth, as it's used during photosynthesis to produce glucose and oxygen. In a natural environment, plants can obtain the required carbon dioxide directly from the air. However, in some instances, such as indoor gardens or greenhouses, there might not be enough carbon dioxide available for plants to thrive.

Carbon dioxide enrichment is a common technique used by growers to boost plant growth. By increasing the carbon dioxide concentration around plants, growers can increase the rate of photosynthesis, resulting in faster growth and bigger yields.

How Seltzer Water Affects Plants

While seltzer water contains carbon dioxide, it's not a reliable source of carbon dioxide for plant growth. The concentration of carbon dioxide in seltzer water isn't high enough to provide a noticeable benefit to plants. In fact, the dissolved carbon dioxide in seltzer water can dissipate quickly, leading to even lower levels of carbon dioxide around plants.

Additionally, seltzer water contains other compounds and minerals that can be harmful to plants. Some brands of seltzer water have added minerals like sodium, calcium, or bicarbonate, which can affect the pH level of soil and water. High levels of sodium, for instance, can cause soil salinity and make it harder for plants to absorb nutrients.

Alternatives for Boosting Plant Growth

If you want to boost plant growth, there are other methods that are more reliable and effective than using seltzer water. Carbon dioxide enrichment systems are available for both indoor and outdoor gardens, and they allow growers to control the concentration of carbon dioxide around plants.

Another way to provide plants with enough carbon dioxide is to improve ventilation in the garden. Good airflow ensures that carbon dioxide is always replenished, and it also helps with temperature regulation and humidity control.

Conclusion

Seltzer water might appeal to some gardeners who are looking for a cheap and easy way to boost plant growth. However, the truth is that seltzer water isn't a reliable source of carbon dioxide for plants, and it can even be harmful due to its other mineral content. For better results, consider investing in carbon dioxide enrichment systems or improving ventilation in your garden.