Epsom Salts as Fertilizer
Even though very little research has been done about the effectiveness of Epsom salts fertilizer, it is found to be widely used for this purpose. Read on to know more about the subject.
Epsom salt is one of those chemical compounds that has various household applications. It is one of the indispensable ingredients in bath salts and is also used for treating sprains and bruises. Epsom salt is widely used in agriculture and gardening too. You might have heard of the use of Epsom salt as fertilizer. As organic gardening is fast gaining momentum, commercial plant food is being replaced with other natural alternatives, and Epsom salt is one among them. Let us take a look at what is Epsom salt and the role and effectiveness of Epsom salts fertilizer.
What is Epsom Salt?
Epsom salt is nothing but hydrated magnesium sulphate and its chemical formula is MgSO4-7H2O. The name of this compound is derived from the town of Epsom in England, where it was discovered for the first time. The healing properties of Epsom salt have long been identified by humans and it was used in the treatment of various ailments. Even today, it has many different household applications, including its use in agriculture and gardening. Epsom salt is one of the popular plant foods, especially for certain plants, like, tomatoes, peppers, roses, etc. The following paragraph will provide you with some interesting facts about the action of Epsom salts fertilizer.
Action of Epsom Salt as Fertilizer
As mentioned earlier, very little research has been done about the action and effectiveness of Epsom salt plant fertilizer. However, most of the users vouch for the effectiveness of Epsom salts as plant food. It is said that the efficacy of Epsom salts fertilizer may be due to the presence of magnesium and sulfur, that are very vital for plant growth. Magnesium aids the plants right from its germination from the seed. Apart from helping the plants in preparing chlorophyll, magnesium also boosts their capacity to absorb nitrogen and phosphorous from the soil. It also strengthens the cell wall of the plants.
While some plants can withstand a deficiency of magnesium in the soil, others show symptoms like, curling of leaves and stunted growth. This affects the production of fruits and flowers.
Sulfur
also aids the plants in producing chlorophyll. It is said to be beneficial for plants in repelling pests. So, Epsom salt that contains both magnesium and sulfur is found to be beneficial for the healthy growth of plants.
How to Use Epsom Salts For Fertilizer
In order to use Epsom salts fertilizer, you may either add it directly to the soil in which the plant grows or else, you may dissolve it in water and add to the soil. Epsom salt can be added to the soil, before sowing seeds. For this purpose, one cup of Epsom salt is sufficient for hundred square feet. Sprinkle the salt and spread it in the soil evenly. Before planting, add a tablespoon of Epsom salt to the soil in which you want to grow the young plants. A solution of Epsom salt in water (2 tablespoons per gallon of water) can be used once in a month. This solution is also said to be beneficial, if used for misting the foliage. In case of established rose plants, you may add ½ cup of Epsom salt to the soil, every spring. During other seasons, one tablespoon per foot of plant height has to be added twice a month. Spread it around the base of the plant and water the soil well. Requirement of Epsom salt for tomatoes is also the same. For houseplants, make a solution of one teaspoon Epsom salt in three liters of water and use it once a week. The requirement of Epsom salts fertilizer may vary from one plant to another and so, it is better to get a clear idea before using it.
In short, there are many gardeners, who use Epsom salts fertilizer as it is found to be beneficial for certain plants like, tomatoes, peppers, roses, etc. But keep in mind to test the soil, before using Epsom salt.
