Gardenchee

Whether you are a new plant parent or a seasoned house-plant hobbyist, coming across new ideas to take care of and bloom your babies is always exciting. So you know the basics – plants require sun, soil, water, shade, and fertilizer. But can we mix the routine up? Read along to understand how you can incorporate alternative methods of caring for your plants through alternate sources of water!

1. Alternate Sources Of Water: Leftover Water From Boiling Vegetables

The next time you boil the vegetables in your kitchen, instead of pouring the water down the drain, use this as one of the many options of alternate sources of water; even the water used to boil eggs can be used. By using the leftover water, you will be giving your plants the nutrition they need to survive. When you boil vegetables or eggs, micronutrients such as phosphorus, nitrogen, and calcium are boiled off into the water. Hence, after letting the water cool down and pouring this onto your plants, not only will you provide your plants with a nice drink, but the plants will also get receive much-needed fertilizer from the nutrients. 

This method of watering plants is cost-effective and resourceful, and the fertilizer it provides for your plants gives them a more stable and steady growth period. What’s more is that this water will help promote natural nutrient storage within the soil, which means that you will not need to fertilize your plants often. The water will also soil retain more moisture, therefore reducing the number of times you would need to water the plants.

2. Alternate Sources Of Water: Water From The Air Conditioner

When an air conditioner is used, moisture forms, and the water that drips down is usually removed by a drip line or a hose. Pulled from the air, this water is pure and is free of the chemicals found in municipal water. Unlike tap water, the water from the air conditioner is free from chlorine as well. The next time you use the air conditioner, store the water and use this as one of the Alternate Sources Of Water. To make your plants happier, mix this water with rainwater – doing so will balance the number of minerals. 

3. Alternate Sources Of Water: Rainwater For Watering Plants

When thinking about alternate sources of water for the plants, rainwater comes to mind instantly, even more so if you live in an area that receives plentiful rainfall. Rainwater is great for plants as it is naturally soft water, contains low concentrations of calcium and magnesium, and is free of chlorine and fluoride. However, it is important to keep in mind that rainwater can be highly acidic due to pollution and acid rain, hence it may not be the best option in areas with high manufacturing units or factories. 

4. Alternate Sources Of Water: Aquarium Water

Alternate Sources Of Water for your plants could be the water from your fish tank! When cleaning the fish tank, reserve the water for your plants – dirty fish tank water has many nutrients found in fertilizer, such as nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus, and beneficial bacteria. What’s more is that the fish tank water has already been purified of chlorine, making it a win-win.