13 Clever Uses for Baking Soda in the Garden

Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, is a versatile household product that can be used in various ways in the garden. Here are 13 clever uses for baking soda:

Natural Fungicide: Mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda, a few drops of mild liquid soap, and 1 liter of water. Spray this solution on plants affected by fungal diseases like powdery mildew or black spot.

Insect Repellent: Create a non-toxic insect repellent by mixing equal parts of baking soda and flour. Dust this mixture on plants to deter common garden pests like aphids and cabbage worms.

Sweeten Tomatoes: Sprinkle a small amount of baking soda around the base of tomato plants to reduce soil acidity. This can lead to sweeter and less acidic tomatoes.

Discourage Weeds: Apply baking soda to areas where you don’t want weeds to grow. It acts as a natural weed killer and helps prevent weed growth.

Compost Odor Control: To reduce odors in your compost pile, sprinkle a thin layer of baking soda on top of the kitchen scraps. This can help control the smell and maintain a healthier composting environment.

Neutralize Soil pH: Baking soda can help raise the pH level in soil that is too acidic. However, it’s essential to test your soil first and apply baking soda sparingly, as excessive use can harm plants.

Clean Garden Tools: Make a paste using baking soda and water and use it to scrub and clean your garden tools. It helps remove dirt, grime, and rust.

Deter Slugs and Snails: Create a protective barrier around plants vulnerable to slugs and snails. Dust baking soda around the plants to deter these pests.

Freshen Cut Flowers: Add a pinch of baking soda to the water in your vase to help keep cut flowers fresh for a more extended period.

Clean Bird Baths and Fountains: Baking soda can be used to clean and remove algae or mineral deposits from bird baths and fountains without harming birds or other wildlife.

Clean Pots and Planters: Scrub garden pots and planters with a mixture of baking soda and water to remove dirt and stains, leaving them clean and ready for use.

Repel Rabbits: Create a non-toxic rabbit repellent by mixing equal parts of baking soda and powdered red pepper. Sprinkle it around vulnerable plants to deter rabbits.

Deodorize Compost Bin: To combat unpleasant odors in your compost bin, sprinkle baking soda at the bottom before adding kitchen scraps. It will help absorb odors and keep your compost bin smelling fresh.

Always use baking soda sparingly and avoid excessive application, as it can alter soil pH. Additionally, it’s a good idea to test a small area before using baking soda on a larger scale in your garden.