In this viewer inspired video, find out about watering you houseplants with RO (Reverse Osmosis) water, including the temperature of the water you want, and if you need to fertilize when you use RO water.
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Hello and welcome to HealthyHouseplants.com, where we teach you all about gardening in the great indoors. If you’d like to support our show, please use our Amazon affiliate link below. Today’s video is inspired by Jessica De Pew. She asks a two-part question: What if you have RO (reverse osmosis) water, and that’s all you can use to water your plants? Would that be warm enough to water your plants if it has been set out at room temperature in a gallon jug? The second part of the question is, do I need to use fertilizer since I only use RO water, or does that not matter when fertilizing?
To answer the first part of the question, as I’ve mentioned in many of my videos, you should always use warm to room-temperature water on your houseplants. This is especially important during the winter months when the water coming out of the tap or reverse osmosis system is very cold. But it’s really important throughout the year because plants can develop issues such as leaf spot disease and root dieback, and may even get root rot if you regularly use cold water to hydrate them.
Jessica is doing a great job by setting out her RO water in a gallon jug, as this allows it to warm up. I’d recommend letting the water sit out for about 24 hours, which should give it enough time to reach room temperature. However, if you keep your house on the cooler side, you might want to warm the water slightly in the microwave. I do this for some of my more sensitive plants, especially those that are sentimental, like heirloom plants from loved ones. You can heat the water by putting it in a measuring cup or something with a pour spout. Heat it just a little bit to bring it to a more comfortable temperature for your plants. Some may consider this over the top, but those of you who know and love your plants will understand the extra care.
This is especially important during winter when it’s colder inside. Your plant’s soil will also be cooler, so it’s essential not to add cold water to the mix. You can also place the water near a sunny window or on a heating pad to help it warm up naturally. After letting it sit for a while, you can check the temperature by touching the water to see if it has warmed up enough.
Regarding the second part of the question about using reverse osmosis water: Since RO water removes minerals, it’s important to maintain a fertilizing regimen. This will add back the nutrients that aren’t present in RO water. I use organic fertilizer, like my Green Gourmet Houseplant Food, which is excellent for providing the necessary minerals and nutrients. It’s important to regularly fertilize your plants, especially when using RO water, to ensure they get all the nutrients they need.
In general, it’s a good idea to use organic fertilizers, as they are much gentler on plants and less likely to cause root burn. Organic growing mimics how plants naturally grow in nature, which leads to healthier, more resilient houseplants.
If you have any other questions about watering, water temperature, or different types of water, I’d be happy to answer them. Watering is a crucial aspect of plant care, and the quality of water you use is very important.
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FAQs about Watering Houseplants with RO Water
Can I use reverse osmosis (RO) water to water my houseplants?
Yes, you can use RO water for watering your houseplants. However, since RO water removes minerals, you need to ensure that you are fertilizing your plants regularly to compensate for the lack of nutrients in the water.
Is room temperature RO water warm enough for watering houseplants?
Yes, room temperature RO water is fine for watering houseplants. Allow the water to sit out for about 24 hours to reach room temperature, or you can warm it slightly in the microwave if your house is kept on the cooler side.
Why is it important to use warm or room temperature water for houseplants?
Using warm or room temperature water is essential, especially in winter, to prevent issues such as leaf spot disease, root dieback, or root rot. Cold water can harm your plants by shocking their root system.
How can I warm RO water for my houseplants?
You can warm RO water by letting it sit out for 24 hours, placing it near a sunny window, or warming it slightly in the microwave. Be sure not to overheat the water, as plants prefer lukewarm water.
Do I need to fertilize my plants if I use RO water?
Yes, since RO water lacks the minerals present in tap water, it’s crucial to maintain a regular fertilizing schedule. Using an organic fertilizer is recommended to provide the necessary nutrients for your plants.
What type of fertilizer should I use with RO water?
It’s best to use organic fertilizers, as they are gentler on plants and less likely to cause root burn. Organic fertilizers promote healthier, more resilient growth by mimicking natural growing conditions.
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