Strategies for applying baking soda in the garden: ranging from assessing soil quality to halting weed growth

In the world of gardening, it's always refreshing to find natural, cost-effective solutions to common problems. Enter baking soda, a versatile household product that's more than just a baking essential. Ish, a renowned garden designer and Instagram influencer (@Gardening.with.ish), has shared five helpful ways to use baking soda in a garden to enrich plants and keep your outdoor space thriving.

Firstly, baking soda can be transformed into an anti-fungal spray. By adding a teaspoon of baking soda, half a teaspoon of washing up liquid, and half a litre of water into a spray bottle, you can create a solution that treats leaf mould, black spot, and various fungal problems like powdery mildew on plants.

Secondly, baking soda is an effective algae remover. For those with bird baths or water features, simply mix baking soda with water to create a cleaning paste. This paste can help remove algae and keep your water features clean and clear.

Thirdly, baking soda can act as an ant deterrent. By sprinkling it around the base of the doorstep, you can deter ants from entering your home.

Fourthly, baking soda can be used as a natural method for weed prevention. By sprinkling it in the gaps between weeds, you can help pull moisture out and raise the alkalinity, making it difficult for some weeds to grow.

Lastly, baking soda can be used to deodorize a smelly homemade compost heap. Simply sprinkle it around the heap to neutralize odours and keep your compost area fresh.

In addition to these uses, Ish also suggests checking the soil's acidity level using baking soda. If it bubbles and fizzes, the soil is acidic. If there is no reaction, the soil is likely pH neutral or alkaline. A soil test kit, priced at £12.99, is available for those who wish to get more precise results.

Moreover, coffee grounds can be used in the garden to balance the soil's pH levels. And if you're looking to maintain your gardening tools, a baking soda solution can help remove grime and surface rust.

Baking soda, or bicarbonate of soda, is a naturally occurring chemical that is useful in the garden as an all-rounder product. With a cost of approximately £1.63, it's an affordable addition to your gardening arsenal.

A photo of Ish's garden was shared on Instagram as part of the post discussing these five helpful ways to use baking soda in a garden. If you're looking for gardening inspiration and practical tips, be sure to follow Ish on Instagram for more insights.

Strategies for applying baking soda in the garden: ranging from assessing soil quality to halting weed growth