How to Make Homemade Plant Food

Houseplants brighten a room, adding color and life. They also remove toxins from the air and return cleaner oxygen for you to breath. Many people claim that houseplants even improve their mood. You can help keep the plants around your home or office green and healthy by giving them special nutrients. You can make plant food that is environmentally safe and easy on your budget.

Things You'll Need

• 1 gal. distilled water
• 1 tsp. Epsom salt
• 1 tsp. potassium nitrate (saltpeter)
• 1 tsp. baking powder
• 1/3 tsp. ammonia
• Pail
• Watering can or pitcher

Instructions

1. Pour 1 gal. of distilled water into a container that will hold a bit more than a gallon. You can also use rainwater--tap water may have chlorine and minerals that can be harmful to plants. Allow the water to stand until it reaches room temperature.

2. Pour the measurements of Epsom salt, potassium nitrate, baking powder and ammonia into the water. Mix well.

3. Pour some of the homemade plant food into a watering can or pitcher.

4. Water your houseplants with the plant food until the soil is sufficiently damp but not steeped in water.

5. Use the plant food once every four to six weeks. Giving plants too much food can harm them. Discard any remaining plant food or pour it on outdoor plants.

References

• Watering Plants with Distilled Water
• Plant Food Recipes