7 Plant Hacks That Actually Work

Houseplants are not only beautiful to look at, but they also have a great impact on our mental and physical well-being. They can help to purify the air, reduce stress, and even improve concentration. But keeping houseplants healthy and thriving can be a challenge, even for the most plant-savvy. Fortunately, there are some unexpected hacks that can help you take care of your plants with little effort.

Sprinkle Epsom Salt to Boost Plant Growth

Epsom salt is actually a chemical compound called magnesium sulfate. Adding a small amount of Epsom salt to the soil of your houseplants can increase the production of chlorophyll, which is the molecule that plants use to convert sunlight into energy.

If your plants have turned yellow, they are most likely not getting enough magnesium sulfate. To use Epsom salt, mix two tablespoons into a gallon of water and use it to feed your houseplants once a month.

Bury Banana Peels to Fertilize Your Plants

Stop before you throw away your next banana peel. Banana peels contain several important nutrients, including potassium, magnesium, and calcium, which are essential for healthy plant growth. They also contain small amounts of nitrogen, magnesium, and sulfur, which also helps plants grow.

To use banana peels as a fertilizer, you can chop them up and bury them in the soil around the base of your plants. You can also make a fertilizer “tea” by steeping chopped banana peels in water for a few days, then using the resulting liquid to water your plants. It’s important to note that using banana peels in large quantities may change the pH of your soil, so use them in small amounts at a time.

Feed Your Plants with Coffee

There’s one more reason to start your day with a cup of coffee, and it involves your plants. Coffee is rich in nitrogen, which is an essential nutrient for plant growth and helps to promote healthy foliage. It also contains small amounts of other nutrients, including phosphorus and potassium, which are important for overall plant health.

If you have some leftover black coffee, dilute it with water and pour it over your soil about once a week. You can also mix a small handful of coffee grounds in the soil around your plants for a similar effect.

Place a Sponge Underneath to Keep Plants Moist

Putting a sponge at the bottom of a plant pot can help with drainage and prevent the roots of the plant from sitting in standing water, which can lead to root rot. The sponge can act as a barrier to keep soil from washing out of the drainage holes and can also help to retain moisture in the soil that plants can enjoy if they’re feeling thirsty.

Remember that not all plants require the same amount of water, and some plants like to have their roots constantly moist, so you’ll need to consider the specific needs of your plant before using a sponge at the bottom of the pot.

Use Ice Cubes to Water Orchids

Orchids are delicate plants, and they require special care. ​​Native to tropical climates, orchids prefer a moist environment. However, they don’t like to be over-watered or sit in standing water, as this can lead to root rot.

Using ice cubes to water orchids can help to provide a consistent and controlled amount of water to the plants. Simply place a few ice cubes on the soil of your orchids once a week. The ice will slowly melt and provide the perfect amount of water for the plant.

Support Plants With Chopsticks

If you have a plant that needs some support as it grows or has been leaning a little, you can offer some support with a pair of chopsticks.

Gently press the chopsticks into the soil on either side of the leaning plant. Make sure they are placed deep enough that they will provide support but not damage the roots. You can also use twine to hold the stems to the chopsticks for extra support.

Add Kitty Litter to Retain Water

Whether you have a cat or not, you may want to have some cat litter on hand if you’re a plant owner. Litter helps retain water, keeping your plants from drying out, and also aids in drainage and aeration. It is especially helpful for plants that will die when left in too much water, like succulents.

To use kitty litter, simply mix some kitty litter with your plant’s soil. The amount you should use will vary depending on the type of plant and the size of your pot, but your mixture should never be more than one-third cat litter. It’s also important to use a non-clumping, unscented and untreated type of kitty litter.

---

Plants can be tricky to take care of, and every one has different needs. By using these hacks, you’ll be able to keep your plants healthy and thriving year after year with items and ingredients you probably already have at home.