I'm transitioning from a property that had a well to a new home that has hard water. I've decided to install a water softener, but I'm concerned about what type of water I should use for my plants. Is hard tap water acceptable for them? Is it safe to use soft water even considering the salt content? Alternatively, should I look into buying bottled water as my main option? I'm interested in adding more plants to my collection, but I need to keep future water costs in mind.
3 Answers
Using hard tap water is generally okay for most plants, but it really depends on the specific types of plants you have. If you're installing a water softener, you might want to check whether it uses salt. Some plants can be sensitive to that. A lot of folks recommend collecting rainwater if you have the space; it's usually ideal for plants! You can also get a Brita filter to help reduce harsh minerals for your indoor plants.
You could also consider investing in a decent water filter for your drinking and plant watering needs. It's beneficial for both your health and your plants! Just keep an eye on how your plants respond to the water you choose, and adjust as needed.
If you're getting a water softener, just make sure to have an accessible tap installed before the softener so you can fill your watering can directly with non-softened water. That way, you'll avoid the salt issue. Don't forget that some outdoor hoses may not be connected to the softener, so that water should be fine for plants too!