Which Flowers Are Not Suitable for Watering with Rice Washing Water
In the practice of home gardening, rice washing water is highly favored as a natural fertilizer, but not all plants are suitable for this method of care. This article delves into the harmful principles of rice washing water on six common ornamental plants, helping gardening enthusiasts avoid mistakes in plant care.
One, the Mechanism of Harm when Watering Flowers with Rice Washing Water
1.1 Soil Acidification Disrupts pH Balance
The pH value of rice washing water is between 6.0-6.7, and its continuous use can acidify the soil environment. This is a lethal threat to alkaline-loving plants, directly affecting the efficiency of root nutrient absorption.
1.2 The Risk of Microbial Fermentation
Unripe rice washing water can ferment in the soil and generate high temperatures, which can cause irreversible root burn in plants with fleshy roots such as lilacs and boxwoods.
Two, Classification and Analysis of Taboo Plants
2.1 Alkaline-Loving Plant Category
Roses and cacti require a growth environment with a pH of 7.0-8.5. Experimental data show that consecutive watering with rice washing water for three times can increase soil acidity by 1.5 pH units, leading to inhibited bud development.
2.2 Fleshy Root Category
Plants like boxwoods and Chinese apricots have root water content as high as 80%, and the starch in rice washing water can easily trigger root rot. It is recommended to use perlite to improve soil aeration instead of fertilizing.
2.3 Fragrant Flower Category
Fragrant substances in flowers like lilacs and forsythias require a specific pH environment for synthesis. The acidic environment caused by rice washing water can disrupt the generation mechanism of their volatile aromatic components.
Three, Scientific Alternative Solutions
For the above plants, it is recommended to use slow-release granular fertilizers, combined with a monthly application of ferrous sulfate solution (0.2% concentration) to adjust soil pH. For flowering plants, additional phosphorus and potassium element water-soluble fertilizers can be applied to ensure nutritional supply.
By scientifically preparing the soil (peat soil: vermiculite: bone meal = 5:3:2) and regularly testing soil pH, the damage to plants caused by improper use of rice washing water can be effectively avoided. Remembering the growth habits of plants and choosing the appropriate care method will result in a garden full of fragrance.