When rice is cooked at home, water often remains, which is used during washing or cooking. Most people consider this water useless and pour it down the drain, however, this rice water that is thrown away can be useful for houseplants.
Simple rice water contains starch and a small amount of minerals. When used in the correct and limited quantity, it is capable of supporting beneficial microorganisms in the soil. If you have potted plants, instead of immediately discarding the water left over from rinsing or boiling rice, you can use it for plant care.
It is important to remember that this water must not contain salt, spices, oil, or any other food additives. It is best to water plants with clean, cooled water. Nevertheless, this does not mean that rice water should be applied to every plant daily; its use requires adherence to a proper regimen and moderation.
Rice water for plants:
Let's look at seven plants that rice water can help, as well as mistakes to avoid when using it.
1. Peace Lily: The Peace Lily needs periodic light feeding. In such cases, adding cold and clean rice water to the soil can be beneficial. It should be applied directly to the soil, not to the leaves, and used every few weeks.
2. Snake Plant: Although the Snake Plant grows easily with minimal care, the condition of its soil cannot be ignored. Occasionally, a small amount of rice water can be given to this plant. Since this species does not like excess moisture, the soil must be allowed to dry out completely before the next watering.
3. Spider Plant: The Spider Plant prefers its soil to retain slight moisture. Therefore, applying rice water every few weeks can provide additional nutrition to the soil. Always apply it to the soil around the plant's roots, not on the leaves.
4. Monstera (Money Plant): Monstera is one of the most popular houseplants. If your Monstera is growing in soil, you can occasionally use cold rice water. The organic components contained in it can support the activity of beneficial microorganisms in the substrate.
5. Pothos: Pothos grows easily even in low indoor light conditions. Clean rice water can be added to the Pothos soil from time to time. However, you must ensure that the soil is never constantly wet, as excess moisture can cause root problems. Rice water should not replace regular water.
6. Fern: Ferns prefer soil that retains moisture and contains organic matter. Therefore, rice water can be part of their care in limited amounts. It is important only to ensure that water does not accumulate in the pot and to provide good drainage.
7. Tomato Plant: Tomato plants require nutrients during growth, flowering, and fruiting. In such cases, rice water can help with soil care from time to time. Nevertheless, relying solely on rice water is insufficient; tomatoes also require quality fertilizers and balanced nutrients.
How to use rice water
The water left over from washing or boiling rice must first be completely cooled. After that, it can be slightly mixed with clean water and applied to the soil around the plant's roots. The most important condition is that the water must not contain salt, oil, ghee, or any spices.
