Baking soda is a gardener’s best friend: here are 10 clever uses in the garden

Baking soda is indeed a versatile and cost-effective solution that can be a gardener’s best friend. Here are ten clever uses for baking soda in the garden:

Natural Fungicide: Baking soda can help control fungal diseases like powdery mildew on plants. Mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil, and one gallon of water. Spray this solution on affected plants every 1-2 weeks.

Pest Repellent: Create a non-toxic pest repellent by combining equal parts of baking soda and flour. Sprinkle the mixture around plants vulnerable to pests like cabbage worms, ants, and aphids.

Sweeten Tomatoes: Sprinkle a small amount of baking soda around the base of your tomato plants. The baking soda helps reduce the acidity in the soil, which can result in sweeter tomatoes.

Extend the Life of Cut Flowers: Add a teaspoon of baking soda to the water in your vase to help keep cut flowers fresh for a longer time.

Clean Garden Tools: Make a paste with baking soda and water, and use it to scrub and clean your garden tools. Baking soda can help remove dirt and grime without being too abrasive.

Neutralize Soil pH: In certain cases, baking soda can act as a mild alkaline amendment to raise soil pH. However, before using it to adjust pH, it’s essential to know your soil’s pH level and the specific needs of the plants you are growing.

Weed Control: Sprinkle baking soda between the cracks of walkways and patios to inhibit weed growth. It helps to reduce weed germination and establishment in these areas.

Compost Odor Control: If your compost pile emits unpleasant odors, sprinkle some baking soda to help reduce the smell. It also provides the compost with a bit of extra carbon.

Clean Bird Baths and Fountains: Baking soda can be used to scrub and clean bird baths, fountains, and other garden accessories. It’s a gentle abrasive that won’t harm wildlife or plants.

Deter Slugs and Snails: Create a barrier around susceptible plants by dusting a line of baking soda. Slugs and snails dislike crossing this dry and abrasive barrier.

While baking soda is generally safe to use in the garden, it’s essential to avoid excessive use, especially when adjusting soil pH. Additionally, always perform a small patch test on a plant before widespread application to ensure it doesn’t negatively affect your plants.