Vinegar and baking soda for plants: what are their benefits?

If you have plants, whether indoors or outdoors, they will likely face diseases caused by fungi or pests at some point. To help prevent and eliminate these problems, there are natural, affordable, and effective options. Vinegar and baking soda are two popular and efficient ingredients for treating these issues. The best part is that they can be combined with each other or other ingredients to expand their uses. Below, we explain how to use them and share several recipes for natural insecticides and fungicides.

Natural recipes for plants

Baking soda is a versatile product that is commonly found in our kitchens. It can be used to whiten clothes, clean tiles, bake cakes, or stimulate plant growth. When mixed with other components, its benefits can be enhanced. Here are some recipes you can prepare for your plants.

1. Baking soda with water

Mix half a tablespoon of baking soda in 4 liters of water. Shake well to dissolve the powder, then pour the solution into a spray bottle. Spray the mixture on the leaves and roots once a month. This remedy promotes plant growth and improves soil pH.

2. Baking soda with water and liquid soap

For this recipe, add a bit of liquid soap to the previous mixture to create a natural insecticide that helps eliminate pests. Apply the product to the affected plants and monitor if the insects disappear. This treatment can be repeated for several days if necessary.

3. Vinegar fungicide

Vinegar is another product with many benefits for plants. It can be used to stimulate natural defenses, regulate soil pH, and act as a natural bactericide or herbicide. Vinegar (any type) reduces soil pH and prevents fungi from spreading. Use it by diluting one tablespoon of vinegar in one liter of water in a spray bottle.

4. Vinegar and baking soda for plants

You can also use vinegar and baking soda together for plants to achieve various impressive results with a completely natural and cost-effective solution. Mix one tablespoon of baking soda and a few drops of vinegar in a large jug filled with water. Then, spray the solution over the entire plant to prevent fungi and pests while helping the leaves become greener and healthier.

5. Garlic fungicide

If you prefer not to use vinegar and baking soda, you can make an effective fungicide with garlic. Garlic is a natural fungicide that helps plants combat and prevent leaf fungi and some bacteria. It’s easy to prepare: you only need 10 garlic cloves, one tablespoon of liquid soap, and one liter of water.

Grate the garlic cloves into the water and let it sit for 24 hours. After that, strain the mixture and add the liquid soap. Pour the product into a spray bottle and thoroughly spray the affected plants, ensuring to cover the undersides of the leaves. Apply it during the time of day when there is the least sunlight to prevent leaf burn.

6. Chamomile

Chamomile tea, often used to soothe stomach aches, can also serve as a natural fungicide for plants. This herb contains a high amount of sulfur, making it ideal for preventing and treating fungal issues. It also has insecticidal properties and provides potassium and calcium to the soil. To use this remedy, steep two chamomile tea bags in one liter of water. Allow it to cool and spray it on the soil and plants.

7. Horsetail

This herb also offers benefits for plants and can naturally prevent fungi. It provides nutrients and minerals that strengthen the plant’s natural defenses. To prepare it, soak 25 grams of horsetail in one liter of water for 24 hours. Then, mix 100 ml of this infusion with another liter of water to dilute it. Spray the solution on the plant and soil.

As you can see, vinegar, baking soda, and some herbal teas are cost-effective products that can be used to improve the health of your plants and protect them from fungi and pests.