In the world of gardening, where the search for natural, effective and respectful solutions of the environment is increasingly important, sodium bicarbonate proves to be a real star among the home remedies. This simple and versatile substance, which we mainly associate with baking or cleaning, also has a huge potential for the care of plants, soil and the environment of the garden in general. It is not just about popular wisdom, but proven practices supported by many gardeners and agronomic research. How to use sodium bicarbonate in the garden?
Use sodium bicarbonate in the garden does not require large economic investments or particular knowledge, but at the same time it offers a wide range of benefits: from the protection of plants from diseases and parasites, to the improvement of the quality of the soil and even to the acceleration of growth. Below we present the ten most effective ways to use sodium bicarbonate in the garden: solutions that can significantly improve the health and yield of your plants, while reducing the need to resort to chemicals.
The best friend of every gardener: sodium bicarbonate in the garden
1. Natural fungicide
Sodium bicarbonate acts as a delicate alkaline substance that interrupts growth e fungal reproduction. Prepare a solution with 1 liter of water, a teaspoon of baking soda and a few drops of liquid soap (without perfumes or dyes). Spray this mixture on plants that show signs of Oidio or other fungal diseases. The application once a week or after rain can significantly reduce the spread of the disease.
2. Natural herbicide for limited use
Although sodium bicarbonate is not a systemic herbicide, it can be used to control individual weeds, in particular among the joints of the vialetti del Giardino or between the tiles. Sprinkle a large amount of sodium bicarbonate on the wet surface of weeds. Its alkalinity damages the cell walls of the plants, causing their decay. It is important to avoid contact with cultivated plants, since even in higher concentrations it can damage them.
3. Dissuasion of parasites
A mixture of baking soda of sodium and white flour (in 1: 1 ratio) is effective against cabbage caterpillars, aphids and some beetles. Sprinkle the mixture on the leaves of the affected plants slightly. Sodium bicarbonate acts as an abrasive and irritates the external membrane of parasites, reducing its presence. It is recommended to apply the product in the early hours of the morning and, if necessary, to reapply it after the rain.
4. Neutralization of acidic land
In excessively acidic soil, plants have greater difficulties in absorbing nutrients, which inhibits its growth. Sodium bicarbonate helps to increase the pH of the soil. The recommended quantity is about 1-2 tablespoons of sodium bicarbonate per square meter of soil, scattered evenly and incorporated into the upper layer of the ground. It is important to control the soil pH in advance with an analysis kit and proceed with caution, since even a too high alkalinity can be harmful to plants.
5. Improve the taste of tomatoes
Reducing the acidity of the soil around tomatoes can help to make the fruit have a sweeter flavor. Sodium bicarbonate acts by neutralizing the acid compounds in the ground. Sprinkle a small amount of sodium bicarbonate (about 1 teaspoon) around the area of ​​the roots of the plant about once a week, making sure it does not touch the stem or leaves. The effect is a gradual improvement of the flavor and greater resistance of the plant.
6. Accelerate composting
Sodium bicarbonate helps to decompose organic matter more quickly into compost by creating a more alkaline environment that favors the activity of certain microorganisms. It should be added in small quantities (one or two spoons every 20 liters of compost), since an excessively alkaline environment can slow down the decomposition. The use must be occasional and moderate, especially when compost gives off an unpleasant smell.
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7. Elimination of unpleasant odors
Sodium bicarbonate is a natural neutralizer of smells because it reacts with the acids and basic compounds present in the air. A layer of sodium bicarbonate is scattered in compost containers, in garbage cans or other organic containers, which significantly reduces the development of unpleasant smells without compromising the decomposition process itself.
8. Cleaning of gardening tools
Thanks to its abrasive and antibacterial properties, sodium bicarbonate effectively removes dirty, rust and fat from the tools. Prepare a baking soda and water paste (in a ratio of 3: 1) and apply it on blades, rakes, scissors, etc. After a few minutes of action, rub the tool with a rigid brush, rinse and dry.
9. Promote the germination of seeds
Some studies have shown that a delicate solution of sodium bicarbonate can increase the seed germination rate. Dissolve 1 teaspoon of baking soda in a liter of water and leave the seeds soaking in the solution for a few hours (maximum 24 hours). This helps to remove inhibitory substances from the surface of the seed and promotes faster growth.
10. Dissuade ants and create protective barriers
Sodium bicarbonate acts as a natural repellent for ants, influencing their chemical orientation system. Spread it around the plants or along the paths of the ants, creating an invisible barrier that discourages them from colonize certain areas of the garden. With regular use it is possible to reduce the number of ants without resorting to insecticides.
Sodium bicarbonate is a convenient, non -toxic and incredibly effective solution to solve many of the problems that gardeners have to face. By understanding the properties and using it correctly, we can naturally improve the health of plants, reduce the use of chemicals and contribute to a more sustainable gardening. Include it in your gardening repertoire: your garden will thank you.
