It is no secret that gardeners often replace synthetic fertilizers with rice water. Whereas it is a great substitute, is rice water suitable for snake plants?
That’s a good question because it would be unfortunate to see your snake plants dry and die slowly because of something you could have avoided. Its answer helps you know whether to pour the water you use to wash or cook rice on these plants.
What about discussing it in detail to get the correct answer to this million-dollar question?
So, Is Rice Water Good for Snake Plants?
Fortunately, rice water is suitable for snake plants. That’s because it is a great source of nutrients that snake plants need to grow and thrive.
Some of these nutrients include nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. They come in handy in the growth of snake plants, especially when indoors.
It is no secret that growing snake plants indoors isn’t challenging. However, watering it with rice water can enhance that further, thus extending its lifespan to about 16 years.
Every snake plant enthusiast would appreciate that, given its myriad benefits. For instance, it eliminates benzene, formaldehyde, and other harmful chemicals.
The plant filters the air while providing energy. Under the right condition, including a rice water boost, it is a plant that can grow to a height of up to 12 feet.
Since the plant can survive without much nutrients and water, rice water will give it what it needs to thrive.
Which Snake Plants is Rice Water Good For?
That’s also a good question since the snake plant species available exceed 70. Those that appreciate rice water include the following;
- Variegated snake plant
- Mason’s Congo snake plant
- Mother-in-law’s tongue
- Father in law’s tongue
- Compact snake plant, especially if you reside in a small apartment
- Twisted sister snake plant
- The golden snake plants
Benefits of Using Rice Water on Snake Plants
It turns out that gardeners have a long list of reasons to use rice water on snake plants. They include the following;
It boosts the growth of snake plants
Unlike most indoor plants, the snake plant may seem to grow slowly. That’s most likely because it will last for a relatively long period.
You can change this slow trend by introducing rice water. It gives it the boost it needs to grow at the same rate as its other counterparts.
It is Environmentally Friendly
Since rice water is from a plant, it is organic and natural. Consequently, it is safe to use for as long as you deem fit.
That’s a different case when using chemical fertilizers. Some of its components are toxic and thus harmful to the environment and what lives in it, including you.
You Can Store It
It is not every day that you cook rice. However, it would be best if you didn’t overuse it when you get a chance.
That’s because you can choose to store it and use it later. Therefore, don’t overwater your snake plants or throw the rice water away.
On the contrary, store it for future use since that is an option. There are several ways of storing rice water, including fermenting it.
Alternatively, put the rice water in mason jars in the fridge. You can always retrieve it when needed, and it will still be great for your snake plants.
It Increases Soil Bacteria
Regarding soil, bacteria aren’t a bad thing. They ensure that the soil is healthy and rich enough to sustain a plant.
The snake plants are no exception, and rice water ensures that the bacteria are ideal. Consequently, its leaves and roots stay healthy.
Since the plant doesn’t need a lot of nutrients, what the rice water offers is sufficient. So, don’t hesitate to use it on your snake plant for its health.
You Can Make It Yourself
One thing about do-it-yourself projects is that they cut costs. An excellent example is making it from the comfort of your kitchen.
It will take you a few minutes to make as much as you wish. It also doesn’t require much since you only need jugs or containers to put or store the rice water.
Interestingly, you don’t even need to plan to make your rice water. It will come automatically when preparing your meal if it has rice.
It Contains Important Minerals
Every living thing needs vital minerals for growth and survival. Some of those that snake plants need are in rice water.
They are three, potassium, nitrogen, and phosphorus. That’s why water is a great substitute for fertilizers. Their organic nature is the icing on the cake.
Here’s how the minerals help your snake plants.
- Potassium: It helps the plant grow well by synthesizing protein and reproducing its cells
- Phosphorus: It has various roles, such as nutrient movement within the snake plant and transforming sugars to starch. It also comes in handy during photosynthesis and energy transfer.
- Nitrogen: Lastly, nitrogen is one of the components of the green coloring matter in plants, chlorophyll. It is no secret that it is responsible for photosynthesis when plants make food.
How to Apply Rice Water on Your Snake Plants
Your options include the following;
- Misting
- Bottom watering
- Top watering
Regardless of the method, consider these tips to ensure that rice water doesn’t do more harm than good.
Be careful not to overwater the plant since it can lead to yellow leaves and rotten roots. Besides, never use hot water because the high temperatures will kill bacteria the soil needs to nourish your snake plant.
Conclusion
Is rice water good for snake plants? Yes, so don’t hesitate to use it on your indoor plant.
It gives plants several advantages; thus advisable for a gardener to grab the opportunity. Interestingly, you won’t have to worry about safety since it is natural and organic.
It is important to note that not all plants do well with rice water. As a matter of fact, not even all snake plant species appreciate it.
Even those that love it will suffer if you use hot rice water. It kills the bacteria they need to thrive.
Lastly, do not overwater the plant to ensure it doesn’t destroy the leaves and roots. After all, it is about fixing your snake plant, not destroying it.
