The primary thing to mix with water for plants, beyond their basic hydration, is something to adjust the pH or provide nutrients.
There are a few common reasons to mix things with water for plants, the most frequent being to alter the pH level of the water or to add nutrients to the water.
Adjusting pH Levels
- Vinegar: Adding vinegar (a mild acid) to your plant's water can help lower the pH if it's too high, typically used about once a month. This is crucial because many plants thrive in slightly acidic soil.
- Lemon Juice: Similar to vinegar, lemon juice is acidic and can be used to lower the pH of water for plants that prefer acidic conditions.
Adding Nutrients
While the provided references don't explicitly detail nutrient mixtures, it's crucial to mention this common practice. Many commercially available plant foods and fertilizers are designed to be mixed with water before application. Always follow the product instructions carefully to avoid over-fertilizing, which can harm your plants.