Last updated on October 23rd, 2023 at 08:53 pm
Can plants tolerate chlorinated water?
Chlorine may sound like a lot of chemistry and seem unnatural. But in nature, chlorine occurs primarily in compounds containing salt. Even plants form these organochlorine compounds in small quantities.
The plants absorb the chloride through their roots. Usually, plants absorb up to 20 milligrams of chloride in this way. Too much of a good thing, however, is hardly tolerable for the plants. Oversaturation and symptoms of poisoning occur.
Some plants prove more resistant to chlorine and tolerate larger amounts. Roughly divided into the following three tolerance categories:
- Chlorine tolerant: beet, daffodils, tulips.
- Medium tolerance: tomatoes, potatoes, cucumbers, spinach
- No chlorine tolerance: lettuce, berry bushes, fruit bushes
- So plants are quite capable of tolerating certain amounts of chlorine. The higher the chlorine content in the pool water, the greater the risk of oversaturation. Then poisoning occurs and the plant dies.
Pool water for watering can be used if the chlorine content is tolerable. At the end of the season, when you no longer chlorinate the pool, you can usually use the water for watering without problems after a waiting period of about 7 days. Before that, the chlorine content might be too high, so you should rather refrain from watering.
Yes, you can use pool water for watering your plants, but there are some important considerations to keep in mind to ensure it is done safely and responsibly. Here are the key points to consider when using pool water for watering your plants:
- Chlorine and Chemicals: Most swimming pools are treated with chlorine or other chemicals to keep the water clean and safe for swimming. Before using pool water for plants, you should allow the chlorine levels to naturally dissipate. Chlorine can harm plants, so it’s essential to test the water to ensure it is safe for irrigation. Typically, allowing the water to sit for a few days to a week, or using a chlorine neutralizer, can help reduce chlorine levels to a safe range for plants.
- Saltwater Pools: If you have a saltwater pool, be aware that the salt content can harm some plants, especially those that are sensitive to high salt levels. In such cases, it may be best to dilute the pool water with freshwater before using it for irrigation.
- pH Levels: It’s a good practice to check the pH levels of pool water. Pool water with extremely high or low pH can negatively affect plant health. Adjust the pH, if necessary, to be close to neutral (around pH 7) before using it for watering.
- Watering Technique: When using pool water for irrigation, it’s important to apply the water to the root zone of the plants and avoid overhead watering. This reduces the risk of leaf damage and minimizes potential salt or chemical buildup on the foliage.
- Plant Selection: Some plants are more tolerant of the minerals and chemicals in pool water than others. Drought-resistant and salt-tolerant plants may be better choices for watering with pool water. Avoid using pool water on sensitive or shallow-rooted plants.
- Monitoring: Keep a close eye on your plants when using pool water for irrigation. If you notice any signs of stress or damage, discontinue using the pool water and switch to using fresh, clean water.
- Local Regulations: Check with local regulations and ordinances regarding the use of pool water. Some areas may have specific rules or restrictions on discharging pool water into the environment.
- Water Conservation: Consider the environmental impact of using pool water. It’s important to use pool water for irrigation during times when it is most needed, such as during dry periods, to conserve freshwater resources.
In summary, it is possible to use pool water for watering your plants, but it should be done thoughtfully and responsibly. Properly managing chlorine levels, pH, and plant selection is crucial to ensure that your plants remain healthy and unharmed. If you have concerns or are unsure about the suitability of your pool water for irrigation, consult with a local horticulturist or cooperative extension service for guidance.