In the case of potted plants, the soil must be really cared for, using a fertilizer. However, this means that the unabsorbed minerals found in the fertilizer will get build up in the soil. This build-up will potentially lead to not a proper growth of your plants, ending up harming them. Thus, you need to get rid of this build-up with a simple process called leaching salt. So make sure you follow these steps for leaching salt from the soil in potted plants to keep the soil clear and healthy for plants growth.
Why do you need leaching salt from the soil in potted plants?
In the leaching process, you need to get rid of those minerals which are the salts.
How exactly does that work? Well, the salts were dissolved in water thus leaving behind when the water evaporated. This might look like a white buildup at the base of your plant’s soil. Also, you might notice it in the drainage holes of the pot.
This is the evidence you need to know that you actually get more salts in the plants then you should.
Due to much salt than necessary, the plants will have a harder time drawing up water. If drawing water gets harder, the leaves will get brown and the growth will be slowed.
Also, when there is too much salt, the plant will have no choice but to draw moisture from its own root tips. This is the most unfortunate situation because the plant will further die.
Thus, know that you know why you need to get rid of salt build-up, it is very important to follow the best methods for leaching salt from the soil of potted plants.
Easy steps for leaching salt from the soil
I know it might sound threatening and a difficult task, but it is actually quite easy and handy. Leaching salt from the soil is very important for your plants’ optimal health so make sure to get on it.
1. Check out for a visible white buildup on the base of the soil. Gently, try to remove it without taking away more than one-quarter inch of soil.
2. Next, you should either put the plant in the bathtub or the sink or take it outside. You need a proper space so your plant could be able to drain freely.
3. When the conditions are provided, pour slowly warm water over the soil without overflowing the rim of the pot. However, you need to pour a gallon of water to a half gallon pot. With these measurements in mind, apply the watering accordingly.
4. This is when the water should absorb the salts from the soil and drain them properly.
As a conclusion, now that you know how leaching actually helps your plants, you should repeat this process every four to six months. This will bring back the clear soil for your healthy plants.
