Many indoor house plants are extremely sensitive to chemicals in tap water. Find out what type of water is best for watering your plants.
As all Plant Parents know, if there’s one detail that can’t be overlooked when it comes to taking care of greenery, it’s water. Plants are living organisms that rely on water to survive. In fact, some plants are composed of up to 95% water. This begs the question: Is regular tap water best for plants, or should we be using filtered water instead? After all, plants need to stay healthy in order to keep producing oxygen in our homes and get rid of unwanted airborne contaminants. In this article, we’ll explore what type of water is best for plants, and the benefits associated with using filtered or distilled water.
When it comes to growing vibrant, healthy plants, using the right type of water is crucial but often overlooked. Though any water is better than no water at all, some kinds of water can actually harm plants over time. This article will examine the different water options for indoor and outdoor plants, the effects of water on plant growth, and simple ways to improve water quality.
How Plants Use Water
Plants require water for four key functions
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To fill out cell structures in stems and leaves. Drooping leaves are a sign of cellular water loss.
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For photosynthesis to occur. Water provides the hydrogen that combines with carbon dioxide to create sugars.
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As a medium to transport nutrients throughout the plant via capillary action.
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To complete the photosynthesis cycle through transpiration As moisture releases from leaves, it triggers more water uptake through the roots
Key Factors in Water Quality
Several elements in water can positively or negatively impact plant growth. Here are some of the main considerations
Hard Water
Water high in minerals like calcium, magnesium, sulfates and bicarbonates. Can leave mineral deposits that repel water absorption. Best to periodically flush soil with soft water.
Sodium
High sodium from water softeners causes toxicity. Avoid using softened water which replaces minerals with sodium.
Oxygen
Higher oxygen levels in water increase root growth. Cool water holds more oxygen than warm.
Temperature
Don’t use water colder than 70°F. Can shock plant growth, especially in tropical varieties.
Chlorine
High chlorine damages roots and kills beneficial soil bacteria. Let tap water sit uncovered overnight to allow the chlorine to dissipate.
Fluoride
Even small amounts of fluoride can disrupt photosynthesis and damage leaves. Spider plants are especially sensitive.
Best Water Options for Plants
Tap Water
The most convenient but quality varies by municipality. Letting it sit out for 24 hours allows the chlorine to escape. Better to filter.
Filtered Water
Removes toxins while retaining minerals. Great for sensitive indoor plants prone to mineral buildup. Shower filters also produce clean water.
Rainwater
Excellent balance of minerals, if collected away from pollutants. Highest oxygen content promotes fast growth.
Bottled Spring Water
Nearly as natural as rainwater. Avoid mineral water with high sodium.
Distilled/Purified Water
Lacks nutrients so only use occasionally. Can cause mineral deficiencies long-term.
Softened Water
Avoid. The sodium content harms most plants. Use a hose bypass when watering outdoors.
Hard Water
Can be used for hardy outdoor plants. Avoid long-term for indoor plants prone to mineral deposits.
Aquarium Water
Nutrient-rich if from a freshwater tank. Rinse filters in old tank water rather than tap to retain beneficial bacteria.
Improving Water for Plants
If tap water is your only option, here are some ways to optimize it before watering:
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Let water sit in an open container for at least 24 hours to dissipate chlorine.
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Consider investing in faucet or pour-through filters which remove chlorine and heavy metals.
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Collect rainwater in barrels tied to drain spouts for future use. Just keep barrels clean.
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For outdoor plants, use a hose bypass to avoid water softening systems.
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Boil water for 15 minutes to remove chlorine, then let cool before applying.
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Create compost “tea” by soaking nutrient-rich food waste in water before straining and using.
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Mix collected rainwater with small amounts of tap for balanced minerals.
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Add fertilizers or compost to offset the lack of nutrients in distilled or purified water.
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Monitor plants for signs of water issues like leaf burn, brown spots, or drooping.
While any water hydrates plants, for optimal health choose rainwater, spring water or well-filtered tap water. Test for chlorine and sodium content. Avoid overabundant minerals. And enrich purified water with compost or fertilizers. Paying attention to water quality makes a big difference in growing thriving, vibrant plants.
What is the best water for indoor plants
There are many types of water out there, so it’s important to know the difference between them so you can make an informed decision about the best type of water to use on your plants. Among the options, the most popular and commonly discussed are distilled and filtered water for plants. To help you decide, we’ve provided a breakdown of each.
Filtered water vs. distilled water for plants
In a nutshell, the difference between distilled water and filtered water is that distillation strips away all the natural minerals found in water as well as chemicals like fluoride and chlorine. Specific water filters, on the other hand, remove harmful contaminants while retaining the natural minerals you and your plants need. So make sure to choose a water filter that is certified to remove contaminants but won’t strip away beneficial minerals in the process.
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FAQ
Do plants grow better with distilled water or tap water?
Is distilled water good for plants? The jury is divided on this, but many plant experts claim it’s the best liquid, especially for potted plants. Apparently, it reduces chemicals and metals that are contained in tap water. This, in turn, provides a clean water source that will not harm plants.Dec 12, 2022
What type of watering can is best for plants?
Spout Type
“I think that a long, thin spout is the best for houseplants,” Steinkopf says. “You can direct the water better to the spot you need it in the container with the long spout. If the diameter of the spout is too large, I find too much water comes out at one time.”
What is the best water for starting plants?
Bottom line: Filtered water works best for your plants
Filtered water is not only good for you, but it’s great for your plants too. If you’re new to water filters, you could start with an activated carbon filter first since there are lots of options to choose from.