Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), occurs naturally in rainwater and acts as nature's cleanser. It oxygenates soil and bodies of water, is completely non-toxic and safe to use around food, people and animals. Adding it when watering your indoor plants, mimics what Mother Nature does for outdoor plants every time it rains.
It also breaks down into the soil and releases extra oxygen that helps the plant grow new, healthy roots. Before you use hydrogen peroxide on your plants, you'll need to dilute it. Mix one part of 3 percent hydrogen peroxide with two parts water in a watering can or spray bottle.
If you are treating a sick plant or one infested with insects, use a slightly stronger mixture of one tablespoon of hydrogen peroxide in eight ounces of water. Don't use hydrogen peroxide on your plants more frequently than twice each week. If you make more than you need, you can store it.
Using hydrogen peroxide in plants aerates the soil to create a healthy growing environment. Aeration is one of the most essential elements of healthy soil, and it helps improve root health, nutrient uptake, and encourages beneficial bacteria growth.
Mix one pint of 3% hydrogen peroxide into a gallon of water. Water the entire plant, soaking the roots thoroughly, once every week. This oxygenates the root area, promoting development during any stage of the plant's life.
If you use a higher concentration of hydrogen peroxide on the foliage of the plant you run the risk of burning it. You could burn the roots, but since it's necessary to kill the root rot-causing bacteria, it's a risk worth taking.
It is perfectly safe for plants when properly diluted and used in moderation. Adding hydrogen peroxide to water promotes better growth in plants and boosts roots ability to absorb nutrients from the soil. Diluted 3% peroxide adds needed aeration to the soil of plants and helps control fungus in the soil.
Hydrogen peroxide can help to control fungal growth and fungal infection, such as root rot, by preventing the growth of fungi. It can also help kill fungus and bacteria on plant roots.
Water issues — either too much or too little — are the leading reason behind yellow leaves. In overly wet soil, roots can't breathe. They suffocate, shut down and stop delivering the water and nutrients plants need. Underwatering, or drought, has a similar effect.
For planted seedlings: Spray with H2O2 solution of 1 part H2O2 3% to 32 parts water (eg: around 30mls per 1 litre - measuring cup recommended). For established plants: Mix 1:1 ratio of 3% H2O2 and water (eg: 1 cup of each). Bottom or top water as usual (water soil only, do not pour on leaves).
Hydrogen Peroxide (H2O2) must be diluted for safe use. To dilute to a 3% solution use 1 part 12% food grade Hydrogen Peroxide to 3 parts distilled water. For example, to make 400ml of 3% H2O2, use 100ml of 12% H2O2 with 300ml of distilled water.
Hydrogen peroxide, well known as an ingredient in disinfectant products, is now also approved for controlling microbial pests on crops growing indoors and outdoors, and on certain crops after harvest. This active ingredient prevents and controls bacteria and fungi that cause serious plant diseases.
As an added bonus, hydrogen peroxide can help discourage unwanted bacteria/fungi that may be lurking in the garden. To give plants an added boost of oxygen or for pest control using the 3% solution, add 1 teaspoon (5 ml.) per cup (240 ml.) of water in a spray bottle and mist the plant.
Hydrogen peroxide is effective at killing 97% of bacteria, viruses, mould spores, and fungi that are causing your plant to perish. Hydrogen peroxide kills root rot-causing fungi and restores the oxygen balance in the soil which helps your plant root system recover.
For hydrogen peroxide of 3% strength, the ratio is 1:1 with water (6% strength is 1:2 with water). After diluting the solution, simply dip your roots in for 10 seconds then pop them back into the water. The key to growing healthy, happy plants is to avoid root rot in the first place.
Add two teaspoons of 35% percent hydrogen peroxide (food grade) to a gallon of water and use this mix alternately with regular water to encourage healthier plant growth, especially with indoor plants without access to rainwater.
Hydrogen peroxide kills root rot-causing bacteria and fungi and restores the oxygen balance in the soil which boosts your plants' growth and health. Due to its chemical similarity to water, hydrogen peroxide is one of the safest chemicals you can use in the garden to combat root rot.
Treat the soil.
Use 1-2 tablespoons of hydrogen peroxide per cup of water, and mix enough to saturate the entire root ball. Mix well, then apply to the soil. Hydrogen peroxide is root safe though it can look a little scary, because it will begin to bubble up when poured in. This is normal!
Give Plants a Boost
Mix 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon clear ammonia, and 1 teaspoon Epsom salt in a gallon of water. Mix well and give each plant about a quart of the solution. This solution will work as a fertilizer for the plants that are looking dull and growing slowly.