Epsom Salts Fertilizer for Plants

First discovered in water from Epsom, England, Epsom salts has been used to treat ailments and fertilize plants for centuries. The National Gardening Association found that when used as a fertilizer, Epsom salts increases rose production and results in larger pepper plants.

Description

Epsom salt is a natural mineral composed of hydrated magnesium sulfate and approximately 10 percent magnesium and 13 percent sulfur. Magnesium and sulfur are essential for the healthy growth and development of plants. Magnesium is used for seed germination and production of chlorophyll, and facilitates absorption of nitrogen and phosphorus -- two critical macronutrients. Sulfur also is used for chlorophyll production, and it improves effectiveness of nutrients like nitrogen and potassium.

How to Use

To use as a foliar fertilizer, mix 1 or 2 tablespoons of Epsom salts with a gallon of water, and spray on plant leaves as flowers start to bloom. Alternatively, sprinkle Epsom salts granules directly into the soil around plants. Epsom salt is highly soluble in water, and thus fast acting; use it to fertilize houseplants, garden flowers like roses, and vegetable crops such as tomatoes and peppers.

Caution

Before using any fertilizer, have your soil tested. After a nutrient analysis, you can best determine the correct fertilizer to use.

References

• National Gardening Association: Fertilizing Eggplant, Peppers, and Okra
• Real Simple: Epsom Salt as Plant Fertilizer
• Dummies.com: Fertilizing Your Organic Garden
• National Gardening Association: Fertilize With Epsom Salts
• Mother Earth News: Can I Use Epsom Salts to Fertilize My Garden, Fruit Trees and Houseplants?

Resources

• Epsom Salt Council: Why It Works