How can Hydrogen Peroxide help your plants?

Hydrogen peroxide is a naturally occurring compound that is eco-friendly and safe to use in your garden! It is colorless and odorless and has many benefits. Just like anything, too much of it can be damaging to plants which is why for hydrogen peroxide to be beneficial to plants it must first be watered down. What can be commonly found which works well for plants is a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution. So, what exactly does it do?

ROOT HEALTH

Hydrogen peroxide can greatly aid in root health. Spraying this on soils allows the soil to absorb more oxygen and helps with soil aeration and rotting roots. For plants to thrive, they must have enough space for nutrients and air to get through the roots. Healthy roots are the key to a healthy plant. Another common problem seen while gardening is root rot. If you notice that some branches are dying completely and there are yellow leaves, there is a good chance that your plant is experiencing root rot. But do not worry… there is a solution! If you use a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution and mix one part hydrogen peroxide solution and two parts water and pour this around the roots and near the base of your plant, it will kill the rot and fungus and prevent it in the future.

NATURAL DISINFECTANT

Hydrogen Peroxide is a natural disinfectant which can be used on your tools as well as anything else in your gardening area. Hydrogen peroxide has many antibacterial properties and bacteria is extremely easy to transfer between plants. Cleaning your tools with hydrogen peroxide before switching between plants is a great way to keep your plants nice and healthy!

SEED STRENGTH AND GERMINATION

Hydrogen Peroxide helps seeds sprout faster and stronger. Many people soak seeds in water, but seeds have proven to germinate faster if they are soaked in hydrogen peroxide. Soaking seeds in this solution for only a minute or two can both sanitize the seeds and help them to germinate faster.

PEST CONTROL

Hydrogen Peroxide helps with pest control and has even proven to be effective against pest eggs. A 1% hydrogen peroxide solution will kill any insect eggs and will keep insects away. Compared to store-bought insecticides, hydrogen peroxide is much more affordable and safer. Many store-bought products are filled with toxic chemicals that are not safe for pets and/ or other wildlife.

FUNGAL CONTROL

Hydrogen Peroxide is a great topical treatment for fungal control. It can prevent dangerous fungus from growing and spreading throughout your plant or even to other plants. Simply spray hydrogen peroxide on the affected area to kill and stop the spread of fungus.

Hydrogen peroxide can be found in most pharmacies and supermarkets. Feel free to call Bruce at (914)400-3742 or reach out at https://kitchengardensofwestchester.com/contact-us/ for more details on how hydrogen peroxide can help you and for other gardening advice!