Is Boiled Potato Water Good for Plants? A Complete Guide

Boiled potato water can be extremely beneficial for plants. The starchy, nutrient-rich liquid left over after boiling potatoes contains many minerals that are great for plant growth and overall health. Using boiled potato water on plants is an excellent way to reduce waste save money on fertilizers, and boost your plants naturally.

What is Boiled Potato Water?

Boiled potato water is the starchy liquid that is leftover after boiling potatoes in water. Once the potatoes are drained, you are left with a cloudy, nutrient-dense liquid that many gardeners pour down the drain without realizing its benefits.

The water contains small amounts of starch, protein, vitamins and minerals that have leached out of the potato flesh during the boiling process Although the potato flesh still retains a majority of the nutrients after boiling, the water has absorbed a great deal as well.

Key Nutrients in Boiled Potato Water

The main nutrients found in boiled potato water include:

• Potassium – Essential for plants to grow and develop normally. Helps reduce drought stress.

• Phosphorus – Important for root growth, flower and seed production.

• Magnesium – Key for photosynthesis. Helps plants synthesize foods and nutrients.

• Calcium – Strengthens cell walls. Reduces risk of blossom end rot.

• Iron – Vital for chlorophyll synthesis and enzyme functions. Prevent iron deficiencies.

• Zinc – Important for enzyme and membrane functions. Boosts fruit production.

• B Vitamins – Help with plant metabolism and energy production.

Using potato water ensures plants have access to well-balanced nutrition for optimal growth and health. The natural nutrients are also gentle on plants compared to chemical fertilizers.

Benefits of Using Boiled Potato Water on Plants

Using the leftover potato water from cooking has a number of excellent benefits for both indoor and outdoor plants:

1. Fertilizes Plants Naturally

The nutrients and minerals from the potatoes act as a natural fertilizer for plants. The potato water can take the place of chemical fertilizers and provides food for plants to grow strong.

2. Increases Flower & Fruit Production

The phosphorus and potassium in potato water encourage more flowers and fruits on plants. This is especially helpful for vegetable gardens and fruit trees.

3. Boosts Photosynthesis

With nutrients like magnesium and iron, potato water helps plants maximize their photosynthesis capabilities. More food synthesis means faster growth.

4. Strengthens Against Pests & Diseases

The nutrients in potato water make plants less susceptible to issues like powdery mildew and common garden pests. Healthy plants can better withstand environmental stresses.

5. Improves Soil Health

Over time, using potato water improves drainage and nutrient bioavailability in soil. It adds beneficial microbes and humates as it breaks down.

6. Saves Money

Rather than purchasing commercial fertilizers, potato water is completely free to use! It reduces waste by reusing a common kitchen byproduct.

7. Environmentally Friendly

Potato water is organic and natural, unlike chemical fertilizers that can harm the soil over time. It’s better for the garden and the planet.

How to Make and Use Boiled Potato Water for Plants

Making and using boiled potato water in your home garden is simple:

Step 1: Boil Potatoes as Usual

Boil washed potatoes with the skins on for optimal nutrition. Use enough water to generously cover the potatoes. Cook until easily pierced with a fork.

Step 2: Strain and Reserve Water

Once cooked, remove the potatoes and strain the water through a sieve or cheesecloth to remove any pieces. Reserve water.

Step 3: Let Water Cool Completely

Allow the potato water to cool to room temperature before using. Hot water can damage plant roots and soil microbes.

Step 4: Water Plants as Usual

Use the potato water to replace regular water for plant watering. The nutrients will soak into the soil and be taken up by plant roots.

Step 5: Repeat as Needed

Continue using leftover boiled potato water whenever you cook potatoes. The plants will benefit from the periodic nutrition boosts.

Some other ways to use boiled potato water for plants:

• Add to a watering can to drench soil around plants
• Pour into garden beds before planting seeds or transplants
• Mix with compost and apply as mulch around plants
• Mist houseplants by spraying diluted potato water on leaves
• Create a potato plant tea by steeping water with compost

Best Plants for Boiled Potato Water

Most edible and ornamental plants will thrive with the occasional boiled potato water feeding. Some types that benefit the most include:

• Tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants
• Leafy greens like spinach and lettuce
• Root crops like potatoes, carrots and radishes
• Squashes, cucumbers, melons
• Flowering annuals and perennials
• Trees like fruit, nut, and citrus
• Herbs like basil, parsley, mint

Houseplants also respond well to diluted boiled potato water added to their regular watering routine. The small nutrient doses give them a periodic boost.

How Often Should You Use Boiled Potato Water on Plants?

While potato water has excellent benefits, it should be used in moderation. Using it at every watering can overload the soil and lead to issues like excessive foliage growth.

Here are some guidelines on frequency:

• Outdoor plants – Use every 2-4 weeks during the growing season
• Houseplants – Use every 4-6 weeks year-round
• Seedlings or transplants – Use every 3-4 waterings for the first month
• Fruiting plants – Increase frequency during flowering and fruiting stage

Pay attention to how your individual plants react and adjust as needed. The goal is a periodic nutrient boost, not over-fertilizing.

Storing Leftover Boiled Potato Water

Have extra boiled potato water you want to save for later use? Here are some storage tips:

• Short-term – Store in a covered jar in the fridge for 5-7 days.
• Long-term – Freeze in ice cube trays, then transfer to a sealed bag or container once frozen. Thaw cubes before using.
• For seedlings – Dilute with plain water 50/50 before use to reduce strength.
• For compost tea – Add water and compost to a bucket and let steep for 1-2 weeks.

Properly stored boiled potato water retains its nutritional value. Use within a few months for best results.

Boiled potato water is clearly great for plants and offers a free,natural fertilizing option. The nutrients it contains provides periodic boosts that enhance growth and production. It improves soil health over time while reducing waste.

Work this nutritious kitchen byproduct into your regular garden routine. Both indoor and outdoor plants thrive with the minerals absorbed from potatoes during cooking. Next time you boil potatoes, let the water cool and use it for your plants instead of pouring it out!