Put baking soda in your garden. Here’s why. This is something gardeners will never tell you

3. Soil pH Balancer
Baking soda can be used to raise the pH of acidic soil, making it more alkaline. This is particularly beneficial for plants that prefer neutral to slightly alkaline soil, such as lavender and clematis. To test your soil’s pH, mix a small amount of soil with water and add a pinch of baking soda. If it fizzes, your soil is acidic. To adjust the pH, sprinkle baking soda lightly over the soil and water it in. Be cautious not to overapply, as too much alkalinity can harm your plants.
4. Weed Suppressant
Weeds can be a persistent problem in any garden, but baking soda offers a simple solution. Its high sodium content can dehydrate and kill small weeds. To use baking soda as a weed suppressant, wet the weeds and sprinkle a thick layer of baking soda over them, focusing on the leaves and stems. This method works best on small, young weeds and should be used with caution around desirable plants, as it can affect their growth as well.
5. Compost Booster
Baking soda can help manage the odor and acidity of your compost pile, promoting a more balanced decomposition process. Sprinkle a thin layer of baking soda over your compost pile to neutralize odors and reduce acidity. However, use it sparingly, as too much baking soda can slow down the composting process by making the environment too alkaline for beneficial microbes.
6. Deodorize Your Garden
Unpleasant odors in the garden can be a nuisance, especially in areas with poor drainage or around compost piles. Baking soda can help neutralize these odors. Simply sprinkle baking soda on the soil or affected area and let it sit for a few hours before watering it in. This will help absorb and neutralize the odors, leaving your garden smelling fresh.
7. Improve Plant Health
Baking soda can contribute to overall plant health by reducing the risk of fungal infections and improving soil conditions. Regular application of a baking soda spray can help prevent fungal diseases, while its use as a soil amendment can improve nutrient availability. For a general plant health spray, mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda with 1 quart of water and spray it on your plants every few weeks.
8. Clean Garden Tools
Keeping your garden tools clean is essential for preventing the spread of diseases. Baking soda is an excellent cleaning agent for removing dirt and rust from tools. Make a paste with baking soda and water, apply it to your tools, and scrub with a brush. Rinse thoroughly and dry to prevent rusting. This simple cleaning routine will extend the life of your tools and keep your garden healthy.