Hydrogen Peroxide In The Garden: How & Why To Use It

If your garden is looking less than stellar then hydrogen might just be what you need. Today, we’ll be discussing ways you can use this little gem for a more robust garden. Let’s get started!

What is Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is a colorless liquid that is similar to water but slightly more viscous. You can get hydrogen peroxide in stores as a solution in water.

It’s usually available from pharmacies at 3 and 6 percent concentrations. These are sometimes described in terms of the volume of oxygen gas generated; one milliliter of a 20-volume solution generates twenty milliliters of oxygen gas when completely decomposed.

It is used as an oxidizer, bleaching agent, and antiseptic.

However, it can be used not only for cleaning wounds but, it can also do wonders for your garden.

While it is not an organic product, it is still considered safe for use and environmentally-friendly.

This is because it ultimately decomposes into oxygen and water so you don’t have to worry about using it in an organic garden.

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It Combats Root Rot

Root rot is often caused by being too generous when watering your plants. When you over water them, any pockets of air found in the soil are with water which basically drowns your plants at their roots.

Apart from being more mindful of how often and how much water you give your plants, you can also use a mixture of 3 percent hydrogen peroxide mixed in 1 quart of water once a week to encourage healthy root growth.

Plants can get much-needed oxygen from this mixture. After applying this solution, wait until the top two inches of soil has dried before watering again.

It Fights Fungal and Bacterial Infections

Harmful fungi can wreak havoc in your garden in a number of ways. It can cause leaf and stem rot, powdery mildew, weakening of plants, yellowing of leaves, and cause seeds to dampen off.

The good news is you can use hydrogen peroxide to fight off fungal infections.

Mix together 1 pint of water with 4 teaspoons 3 percent hydrogen peroxide in a spray bottle.

Spray it on affected plants. Be sure, however, to use the correct dilution since too much hydrogen peroxide can burn plant tissues which will harm your plants when you’re trying to help them.

You can also use hydrogen peroxide to prevent bacterial rot caused by cuts and bruises on plant tissues. Simply spray the solution on fresh cuts on tree branches after pruning.

It Can Sanitize Seeds

Seeds can carry pathogens like e. coli, salmonella, and listeria. Before starting your seeds, be sure to decontaminate them with hydrogen peroxide.

This can kill off any harmful bacteria that the seeds may be harboring.

Soak seeds in 3 percent hydrogen peroxide heated to about 140° F for five minutes. Afterward, rinse off in cool running water for a minute.

It Can Help Seeds Germinate Faster

Sprouting seeds need a lot of oxygen. With the help of hydrogen peroxide, you can supply extra oxygen to the seeds you’re hoping to sprout.

Simply soak the seeds for 30 minutes in 3 percent hydrogen peroxide mixed with water. Don’t forget to rinse them before planting.

Alternatively, you can also mix hydrogen peroxide into the soil before sowing seeds.

It Can Keep Garden Tools Bacteria-Free

You can use hydrogen peroxide to keep your gardening tools, pots, seed trays, and containers sterile.

Simply spray surfaces with 6 to 9 percent concentration of hydrogen peroxide to avoid introducing pathogens to your plants from your tools.

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It Can Promote Plant Growth

The oxygen content in hydrogen peroxide allows plants to absorb minerals and nutrients from the soil more effectively.

This results in better plant growth and crop yields for vegetable gardens.

Mix together 1 teaspoon 3 percent hydrogen peroxide into a gallon of water. Pour this solution around your plants to promote better absorption.

If you have an aquaponic or hydroponic system, you can also add hydrogen peroxide for an extra supply of oxygen and to prevent root rot.

It Kills Weeds

If you’re struggling with weeds in the garden but you don’t want to use harmful chemicals, hydrogen peroxide is a great option for you.

You can mix one ounce of hydrogen peroxide (3%) with one quart of water in a spray bottle. Spray any weeds and watch it work.

Gardening doesn’t have to be expensive there are many things you have in your home right now that will help you grow a healthy, happy garden without breaking the bank.

Have you used hydrogen peroxide in the garden? Tell us your experience in the comments below.

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