Can You Use Softened Water to Water Plants?
Hard water can cause problems for household cleaning tasks such as laundry and dishwashing. Although water softeners may be helpful for these problems, soft water should not be used in the garden, particularly for extended periods of time. Does this Spark an idea?
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About Soft Water
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Water softeners function by exchanging calcium and magnesium for sodium particles. This is also known as the ion exchange process. Softeners also remove small amounts of iron and manganese from water.
Use in Gardens
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Softened water is not recommended for use in the garden due to its sodium content. According to the University of Illinois Extension, softened water increases the level of soluble salts in plant soil. Excessive amounts of soluble salts can decrease nutrient and water uptake, leading to plant decline. Some plants, such as chlorophytum, African violets, calceolaria, chrysanthemums, geraniums and petunias are particularly sensitive to high levels of soluble salt.
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Other Concerns
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Soft water may also have other negative health consequences due to its sodium content. Consult your doctor before installing a water softener if you have circulatory or cardiovascular problems or if you are on a low-sodium diet.
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