Can Softened Water Be Used to Water Plants?

Water is essential for plant growth, but not all water is created equal. Softened water is often used for household purposes, but can it be used to water plants? The answer is not a simple yes or no. Let's take a closer look at what softened water is and its potential effects on plants.

What is Softened Water?

Softened water is water that has had its minerals removed through a process called ion exchange. This process involves running the water through a resin bed that attracts and holds onto hard minerals such as calcium and magnesium. These minerals are exchanged with sodium ions, resulting in water that is "soft." Softened water is often preferred for household use because it can prevent mineral buildup in pipes and appliances.

Effects of Softened Water on Plants

While softened water may be beneficial for household use, it can have negative effects on plants. This is because the sodium ions that replace the calcium and magnesium ions can be harmful to plants. Sodium can accumulate in the soil over time and create an unhealthy environment for plants. In addition, softened water may have a higher pH level, which can also be detrimental to some plants.

What Plants Can Be Watered with Softened Water?

Despite the potential negative effects of softened water on plants, there are some plants that can tolerate it. Plants that are native to areas with naturally high levels of sodium in the soil, such as succulents and cacti, are typically more tolerant of softened water. In addition, some plants that thrive in alkaline soil, such as lilacs and boxwoods, may also be able to tolerate softened water.

Precautions When Using Softened Water

If you do decide to use softened water to water your plants, there are some precautions you should take. First, test the pH level of the water to ensure that it is not too high. If it is too high, you may need to adjust the pH level using a pH treatment product. Second, you should avoid using softened water on plants that are sensitive to sodium, such as ferns and citrus trees. Third, it's important to keep in mind that prolonged use of softened water can lead to an excess of sodium in the soil, which can be difficult to reverse. To mitigate this, you can periodically water your plants with unsoftened water to help flush out any excess sodium.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while softened water may be useful for household purposes, it is not the best choice for watering plants. The sodium ions in softened water can be harmful to many plants, and the high pH level can also cause issues. If you must use softened water to water your plants, be sure to take precautions and use it sparingly. It's generally best to stick with unsoftened water or rainwater for your plant watering needs.