THE USE OF BAKING SODA IN CANNABIS CULTIVATION

We usually associatebaking soda or sodium bicarbonate with kitchen use. You might not believe it at first, but baking soda can be a great tool for growing cannabis. In fact, it has many positive benefits for cannabis plants. However, when used incorrectly, there are also risks. In this article you will learn everything you need to know about using baking soda in your cannabis garden.

What is baking soda used for?

Baking soda is a well-known ingredient that gives breads, pastries, muffins and cakes a fluffy consistency. Baking soda has a pH value of 9.5 and is therefore classified as an alkaline substance. When it comes into contact with acidic ingredients such as vinegar and buttermilk, it reacts to form carbon dioxide. This gas then causes air bubbles to form, which cause the dough to puff up during baking. However, baking soda is also useful in other areas due to its alkaline pH.

The most common non-baking use is placing an open box of baking soda in the refrigerator and freezer, where it absorbs unpleasant food odors. Those who do not want to use harsh chemical cleaners can also use baking soda as a detergent, drain cleaner, laundry detergent or carpet cleaner. But the useful properties of baking soda go back much further. In fact, many of the problems faced by cannabis growers can be solved by using baking soda. Below are some ways to use baking soda in cannabis cultivation.

Why use baking soda when growing cannabis?

Baking soda can be used not only for baking and cleaning in the home, but also in the garden. In fact, under the right conditions and with the right application, it works as an effective growing agent. Some people prefer to prepare a sodium solution, while others like to use baking soda in a spray bottle. Below are a few ways to use baking soda effectively in the garden.

Baking soda as a fungicide and pesticide

You can make a very effective, non-toxic fungicide from baking soda. This organic fungicide can come in handy in your garden and help you keep your cannabis plants strong and healthy. If your cannabis plants have been attacked by mold, baking soda can act as a fungicide that can kill the mold by disrupting the balance of ions in the mold cells. One of the main threats to cannabis farms and gardens, besides mould, is pests. Instead of reaching for a bottle of aggressive chemical pesticides that can negatively affect the growth of your cannabis plants and the environment, use baking soda to control pests.

Simple instructions for foliar spraying with baking soda

• 1 tbsp baking soda
• 1 tbsp dishwashing liquid
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 litre of water

Foliar application of baking soda is recommended only in the vegetative phase. Application of this solution during the flowering phase could lead to residual deposits on the canes.

Baking soda as a remedy against black rot

To make a solution against black rot on cannabis plants, mix four teaspoons of baking soda with one litre of water. However, be careful not to spray this solution on plants that are exposed to direct sunlight and heat.

Baking soda as a means of raising the pH

Cannabis growers must keep a close eye on the pH of the soil throughout the growing process. If it is too low or too high, the plants will not be able to take up important nutrients. If you find that the soil is too acidic when you test the pH, you can use baking soda to adjust it to an optimum value of between 6.0 and 7.0. Just mix a tablespoon of baking soda with 5 litres of water. Baking soda significantly affects the pH, so be careful when fertilising. If you use too much baking soda, the pH can be significantly affected and the problem will get worse.

Baking soda as a cleaning agent for garden tools

After a hard day in the garden, growers can scrub their hands with baking soda to get rid of dirt quickly and easily. Growing tools such as watering cans, fertiliser scoops, sprayers, pots and other common gardening tools can be easily cleaned with a mixture of baking soda and water. Just add enough water to create a consistency similar to hand cream.

Can baking soda be used during the flowering stage?

You should avoid using baking sodaduring the flowering stage . At this stage you will need to choose a different strategy to combat pests and diseases. This is because if you use a baking soda spray at this stage, the residue will settle on the canes and you will lose all your crop.

Using baking soda when growing cannabis: is it a good idea?

Baking soda can be a cheap and easy way for growers to control some pests and fungi. However, as with any product, care must be taken to use it correctly and not damage cannabis plants. Baking soda should be used at the right time and in the right amount. In low doses, baking soda poses no threat to cannabis plants.

Baking soda is not only an effective bulking agent, but also a great growing agent. Buy cannabis seeds with up to 1% THC and try to achieve maximum yields with baking soda.