Think baking soda is just for baking? Think again! This humble kitchen staple is a secret weapon in the garden — affordable, natural, and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re battling pests, improving soil, or cleaning up your tools, baking soda has your back.
Let’s dig into 10 clever ways to use baking soda to transform your garden!
Why Gardeners Love Baking Soda
Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) is:
- Non-toxic & eco-friendly – Safe for pets, kids, and pollinators.
- Multipurpose – Tackles everything from mildew to soil testing.
- Cheap & convenient – You probably already have it in your kitchen.
Top 10 Smart Ways to Use Baking Soda in the Garden
1. Fight Powdery Mildew
Mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda with 1 gallon of water, and spray on leaves to stop mildew in its tracks. Works great on cucumbers, squash, and roses.
2. Natural Fungicide
Prevent fungal issues on vegetables and flowers by spraying a baking soda solution weekly — especially during humid weather.
3. Repel Garden Pests
Sprinkle baking soda around plant bases to deter slugs, ants, and roaches. They hate the stuff.
4. Sweeten Tomato Flavor
Lightly dust the soil around tomato plants to reduce acidity, helping fruits grow sweeter and tastier.
5. Test Your Soil’s pH
Mix a small amount of soil with water, then add baking soda. If it fizzes, your soil is acidic — a fun and easy home test!
6. Clean Rusty Garden Tools
Make a paste with baking soda and water to scrub away rust and grime from your tools. Rinse well and they’ll shine like new.
7. Deodorize Compost Piles
Sprinkle a bit of baking soda into your compost to neutralize odors without harming helpful microbes.
8. Prevent Weeds in Cracks
Pour baking soda into cracks in your patio or walkway to stop weeds before they sprout.
9. Strengthen Plant Defenses
Spray a mild solution on foliage to boost resistance against diseases and pests. A natural health booster for your plants.
10. Clean Birdbaths Safely
Scrub birdbaths with baking soda and water — no harsh chemicals — for a safe and inviting spot for your feathered visitors.
A Simple Solution for a Healthier Garden
Who knew one pantry item could do so much? With these tips, baking soda becomes your go-to garden ally — keeping plants happy, pests away, and tools spotless.
Try one or two of these hacks this week and see the difference for yourself. Sometimes, the simplest solutions grow the best results.
