Using Epsom Salt In Your Garden

Have you ever tried using Epsom salt in your garden? It has many uses.

Epsom salt was first discovered in the year 1618 by a local cow herder in Epsom Common, England.

Henry Wicker’s cows refused to drink the bitter water, despite the presence of a drought.

Although they did not drink, Wicker’s cows waded through the water, soaking their legs in the salty liquid.

Wicker noticed the cuts and injuries on the legs of the cows who had soaked in the water seemed to heal quicker than usual.

Tips Our Grandmothers Used:

Epsom salt is one of the many ideas our grandmothers used to enhance gardens cheaply.

Epsom salt is made up of hydrated magnesium sulfate, which is a naturally occurring mineral.

Many gardeners insist that it also helps seeds germinate, speeds up plant growth, and deters pests.

Counter Transplant Shock:

To counter transplant shock, provide plants with Epsom salt once they’ve been transplanted. This should help injured roots.

Layer soil on top of salt so that roots don’t come into direct contact with the concentrated minerals right away.

Pre-Planting Regimen:

Before planting, soak root balls in 1/2 cup of Epsom salt diluted in one gallon of water.

Planting:

Dig a hole and place about a tablespoon of Epsom salt in the bottom of the hole. Cover with a thin layer of dirt.

Put the plant in the hole and fill in with soil.

Using Epsom Salt As A Top Dressing: 

During growing season, sprinkle about a tablespoon of Epsom salt directly around the base of the plant. Water thoroughly.

Tree Stump Removal:

Epsom salt is known for its absorption properties. It can suck the water out of wood which makes it easier to remove a tree stump.

Drill multiple holes in the top of the stump. The holes should be approximately 3-4 inches apart. Pour salt into the holes and add water. Then pour Epsom salt on any exposed roots to dry them out.

If this doesn’t work the first time, you may repeat the process every three weeks until the stump dies.

Plant Boost:

If your plants need a boost, dissolve about 1 to 2 tablespoons of Epsom salt in a gallon of water.

Pour at the base of the plant and allow the solution to soak into the ground. Magnesium sulfate is pH neutral, so it won’t harm your soil.

Pest Control:

Epsom salt in many cases provide a natural cure for slugs. Sprinkle Epsom salt where there are slugs.

Using Epsom Salt As A Weed Killer:

Mix 2 cups Epsom salt with 1 gallon of vinegar. Add a bit of liquid dish soap to the mixture and put in a spray bottle. Spray weeds but try to avoid flowers and other plants.

I always lean toward natural solutions to fix problems I have both indoors and outdoors.

It’s much cheaper to use Epsom salt in my garden instead of turning to man-made chemicals for help.