Expert's ice cube watering hack keeps houseplants alive and avoids root rot

921     0
The hack could save you time (stock photo) (Image: Getty Images)
The hack could save you time (stock photo) (Image: Getty Images)

Some people are natural when it comes to caring for plants and gardens, others, well… they don’t have the green-fingered gift. While there are flowers and shrubs that don't require much nurturing and can survive in most environments, other factors can affect the longevity of your potted friends including temperature, surroundings, and maintenance myths.

One thing that can catch people out is overwatering your plants but thankfully the experts have come to the rescue. If you have ‘foliage fear’, the answer could be to simply add some ice.

According to a specialist at The Ice Co, using the humble ice cube could be the cool answer to your plant problem. For instance, adding a few bits of ice to the soil of your plant will provide hydration as it gradually melts. This will give the soil enough time to absorb just enough water for its plant’s needs.

The experts also state that the change of temperature from the ice actively promotes blooming – especially in plants such as orchids. Orchids require a change in temperature between night and day in order for them to bloom properly, so using ice does this efficiently.

If that’s not enough reason to give it a try, using ice cubes is also incredibly easy, which as a generation of corner-cutters can save time in our already busy lives. Plus, by using ice, whether your plant lives in a pot or a hanging basket, you’ll avoid that initial leak of water that can end up causing a mess.

Gardening expert shares exact date when you should cut grass after winter dqxikeidqkikdinvGardening expert shares exact date when you should cut grass after winter

Ice isn’t the only household ingredient that can benefit your plants and garden. Amateur gardeners have suggested that a combination of salt, soap, and vinegar works wonders for soil in a number of ways, including the safety of family and pets in addition to the environment, which the experts agree with.

As reported in the Express, they said: "Targeting and killing the plant’s root is what permanently kills weeds. You can use natural and manufactured weed killers; however, they will ultimately come back if the plant’s root survives.

"There are numerous products available that may help you get rid of weeds. However, some products contain harmful chemicals. So, you may be wondering what kills weeds permanently naturally."

The specialists continued: "Other natural options include using everyday household items, proven as effective herbicides. For example, gardeners have employed salt and vinegar, both readily available and inexpensive, to battle weeds successfully.”

Eve Wagstaff

Gardening

Read more similar news:

15.02.2023, 13:40 • News
'Aggressive' garden plants to avoid - or risk damage to your home
20.02.2023, 16:02 • News
Dog owners warned popular vegetable patch plant could be toxic for pets
22.02.2023, 01:58 • News
Gardening expert explains how to get rid of weeds without ruining your lawn
06.01.2023, 16:30 • News
Homeowner faces £3k bill after council cuts down 'eyesore jungle' outside house
26.01.2023, 16:09 • World
Expert explains how to spot Japanese knotweed - with urgent warning on treatment
04.03.2023, 09:23 • News
Gran devastated after council destroys garden she spent 17 years working on
10.03.2023, 18:13 • More
Take our gardening quiz to find out what type of gardener you are
14.03.2023, 11:16 • News
Couple claim Morrisons van caused £25,000 damage - but they offered £746 compo
14.03.2023, 14:30 • World
Ordinary looking terraced home transports you across the world when you enter
15.03.2023, 12:22 • Finance
Garden experts' savvy 29p tip for removing paving moss in just '15 minutes'