How To Water Ferns With Epsom Salt (Tips and Tricks)

The Surprising Benefits Of Using Epsom Salt To Water Your Ferns

Do you have outdoor ferns at home in pots that you struggle to keep healthy and green throughout the warmer months? Spring, Summer, and Fall. You’re not alone.

Ferns are notoriously finicky plants that require just the right amount of light, moisture, and nutrients to thrive. But what if I told you that there’s a simple and surprising solution to your fern woes? Epsom Salt

This common household ingredient can work wonders for your ferns, promoting growth and preventing yellowing leaves. Today, we’ll explore the benefits of using Epsom salt to water your ferns, explain how it works, and provide easy-to-follow instructions for incorporating it into your fern care routine. Get ready to see the impressive results for yourself.

SUPPLIES

• Ferns
• Epsom Salt
• A 5-gallon bucket of water

What Is Epsom Salt, and How Does It Work?

Epsom salt may be a household staple, but not everyone knows what it is or how it works. Essentially, Epsom salt is a mineral compound made up of magnesium and sulfur. It is named after the town of Epsom in England, where it was first discovered in mineral springs. When dissolved in water, Epsom salt releases magnesium and sulfate ions, which plant roots can absorb. These essential nutrients can support the growth and health of your fern, improving its overall appearance. We all want luscious green ferns, and this stuff works!

How To Use Epsom Salt To Water Your Ferns

To be perfectly clear, when I say potted ferns, I’m talking about the plastic pots you purchase yearly from a nursery because, like me, you probably allow them to die over the winter. It’s just easier to buy new ones every year, and they’re quite affordable. These ferns typically come with a massive root system with more roots than soil, so this method of watering works very well for them.

To use Epsom salt to water your ferns, first, fill a large bucket (I use a 5-gallon bucket) with water. Then, add two tablespoons of Epsom salt for every gallon of water and stir well. Make sure the Epsom salt is completely dissolved before watering your ferns.

I usually fail to grab a measuring spoon, so I just eyeball it. Kind of like when I cook. If your Grandma didn’t teach you how to measure in your hand, use a measuring device.

I recently repotted some ferns in clay pots that have a lot of soil surrounding them. This method isn’t recommended for heavy pots. But I do water them with the same solution using a watering can.

Give Your Ferns A Good Soaking

Next, submerge your fern (plastic container) in the 5-gallon bucket. When I say submerge, I mean hold it underwater and continue to keep it underwater until it is totally saturated. You’re going to hear a lot of gurgling. LOL, It will kind of sound like it’s drowning. It will stop after a few minutes. Don’t call 911. And just so you know, no ferns were harmed during this exercise.

Allow the fern to soak in the solution for a minimum of three hours. After that, remove it from the bucket and allow it to drain before returning it to its container. If your ferns are in hanging baskets, return them to the hanger to allow the excess water to drain.

Do not allow water to sit in overflow containers if you’re using decorative planter boxes. This can lead to root rot and is not good for ferns.

I like mine to soak for a few hours. This gives the roots enough time to absorb as much as possible. I have heard other plant enthusiasts suggesting leaving them soaking overnight. I’ll let you know if I try it.

I find that my ferns do best when watering from below. Of course, if it’s raining, I will set them out for a nice bath. There’s nothing better than rainwater.

*Ferns prefer evenly moist soil, so check on them daily to maintain a good balance.