Unlock the secret to healthier plants with rice water

One of the latest plant hacks buzzing around gardening circles is using rice water for plants. Many gardeners swear it’s a must-try miracle boost for healthier blooms and veggies. The starchy liquid from cooking rice is supposedly beneficial for the roots and helps keep pests at bay. But is rice water good for plants, or is it just kitchen waste that should be poured down the drain? The answer to this is murky.

Before boiling your rice, you are supposed to rinse it to wash away any dirt, debris, pesticides, and any leftover from the harvesting and hulling process. When you rinse your rice, there is cloudy leftover water that contains starches and trace minerals, which plants in your garden or houseplants collection can use. Instead of tossing it down the drain, put it to use for your plants to absorb its benefits.

The benefits of rice water

The cloudy liquid leftover from rinsing your rice is the powerhouse of nutrients that can work wonders for your plants:

Nutrient-Rich: Rice water contains essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. These nutrients are vital for healthy plant growth and development.
Boosts Beneficial Microbes: The water encourages the growth of beneficial microorganisms in the soil, improving soil health and nutrient absorption.
Gentle and Natural: Unlike some store-bought chemical fertilisers, rice water is a mild and natural way to feed your plants without the risk of burning them.
Promotes stronger roots and stems: The nutrients in rice water can contribute to stronger root systems and sturdier stems, making your plants more resilient.
Revive dry flowers: The gentle hydration and nutrients in rice water can sometimes help revive even seemingly dried-out flowers.