Using Epsom Salt in the Garden

Most people know about Epsom salt's uses as a home remedy, but it is also be beneficial when added to your garden soil. The magnesium and sulfur in the Epsom salt can correct nutrient imbalances in the soil or boost the growth of certain plants, such as tomatoes and peppers. Epsom salt can also neutralize high soil salinity levels that are dangerous to your crops. Here are a few tips for using Epsom salt as a nutritional supplement in your backyard garden.

Using Epsom salt in the garden: Beneficial nutrients

While it has the word "salt" in its name, Epsom salt is far more than just the standard sodium chloride that is in table salt. It is made up of hydrated magnesium sulfate, which has several nutritional benefits for plants. Epsom salt contains 10% magnesium, a key element for germinating seeds and strengthening cell walls. It also is required for chlorophyll production and absorption of other elements like phosphorus, nitrogen, and sulfur. Epsom salt is beneficial in the garden because it also contains 13% sulfur. Sulfur aids in the plant's creation of vital enzymes, amino acids, and certain vitamins.

Using Epsom salt in the garden: Balance out natural salinity levels

Epsom salt can also be used to neutralize natural salt that is already present in the garden soil. Excessive salt can clog the cells of the plant's roots, interfering with their ability to absorb nutrients and moisture from the soil. This can be a frequent problem for plants grown in indoor gardens that have been in the same container for an extended period of time. Adding some Epsom salt into the soil is often a quicker way to restore the balance than flushing it out with clean water.

Using Epsom salt in the garden: Correct magnesium deficiency

Magnesium deficiency can be a problem for certain plants that require high amounts of it, such as peppers and tomatoes. The soil in many areas may not contain enough natural magnesium to satisfy their needs, so it may be beneficial to sprinkle some Epsom salt in your garden to boost the magnesium content. Soil that is high in calcium and potassium may have an imbalance that causes problems with magnesium absorption in the plant's roots. Watch for curled leaves, limited growth, and leaves that turn yellow between the veins as these are all signs of magnesium deficiency.

Using Epsom salt in the garden: How to apply

To add Epsom salt to your garden, you can either dilute it and apply it as a spray or place the granules directly into the soil. As the plant is watered, the Epsom salt granules will break down and get absorbed by the roots. The spray is a quicker method of application because it absorbs straight into the leaves instead of going through the roots and the plant's metabolic processes. To achieve the proper dilution, mix one tablespoon of Epsom salt into each gallon of water.