There are a few different ways to water houseplants.
Maybe you fill up a sink or bucket and let them soak upwater from the bottom.
When it comes to the source, though, chances are that you’re using water from your tap.
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But is that always the best option?
Is tap water safe for your plants?
Is Tap Water Safe for Plants?
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Yes, tap water is safe to use on houseplantswith a few caveats.
“All water is safe to use on houseplants.
Municipal water supplies are typically treated with chemicals like chlorine to kill germs and fluoride to prevent tooth decay.
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Bromeliads benefit fromrainwaterrather than tap water in their central cups.
However, the buildup of salts in your plants' soil can affect growth or even kill your plants.
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That includes iron, a deficiency of which can lead to yellow leaves with green veins.
Salts appear as a yellow or white residue on the soil surface.
They can also accumulate on the outside of pots made with unglazed clay, such as terracotta.
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Use rainwater or water from a tap that’s not connected to your water softener to do this.
How to Water Indoor Plants.Missouri Botanical Garden.
Is our tap water killing our houseplants?Extension.org.
Soluble Salts.The California Garden Web, University of California.
Ornamental Production: Water & Water Quality.Texas A&M AgriLife Extension.
Understanding Bottled Water.Penn State Extension.