This Common Ingredient Is a Secret to Healthy Plants—and It Costs Nothing
You’ve probably heard the tip about adding aspirin to a vase of water to keep cut flowers fresh longer. It’s a classic home hack that many people swear by. But what if this simple household item could do much more for your plants? According to a study by the University of Rhode Island, acetylsalicylic acid—the active ingredient in aspirin—isn’t just for cut flowers. It can also boost a plant’s immune system, helping them grow bigger and stronger.
The researchers dissolved aspirin tablets in water and sprayed a group of plants with the solution every three weeks. By the end of the season, the aspirin-treated plants had grown significantly larger and were more robust. They were more resistant to microorganisms and fungi, showing a surprising resilience against common plant problems. This simple, inexpensive treatment proved to be particularly effective on nightshade plants, such as potatoes and tomatoes.
The science behind this trick is a natural plant defense mechanism. Plants produce a hormone called salicylic acid, which helps them fight off stress, diseases, and pests. Since acetylsalicylic acid in aspirin is converted to salicylic acid in water, a diluted aspirin spray can trigger this same immune response in plants. It’s like giving your plants a vaccination to help them fend off common illnesses.
Simple Ways to Use Aspirin for Your Plants
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