The Miracle Mineral

It is amazing that the same product one uses to relieve sore feet can also produce remarkable results in growing peppers, and tomatoes.

Epsom Salts is a natural mineral that was discovered in the well water of the town of Epsom in England. The salts’ chemical composition is hydrated magnesium sulfate (about 10% magnesium and 13% sulfur). Magnesium is important when it comes to seed germination and is also important in the production of chlorophyll. Magnesium strengthens cell walls and helps plants absorb nitrogen, phosphorus, and sulfur. Sulfur helps plants produce required vitamins, amino acids, and enzymes.

Most vegetables in North America can find the magnesium they need in the soil, but tomatoes and peppers can benefit from an extra punch of this mineral that Epsom salts can provide. Calcium and potassium in the soil will compete with magnesium for absorption into plants’ roots and in most cases, the magnesium will lose the battle. Magnesium deficiency generally doesn’t show itself until it is too late. Symptoms of this deficiency are yellowing of leaves between veins, leaf curling, stunted growth, and lack of flavor.

The best way to apply Epsom salts to a plant is to dilute it with water and apply as a spray that can be absorbed quickly by the plants. To make this spray combine 1 tablespoon Epsom Salts with 1 gallon of water.

Epsom Salts will correct a problem when too much natural salt is in the soil. Too much salt can cause the root cells to clog making it difficult for the plant to take up water and nutrients. Epsom salts make a world of difference to houseplants that have been in the same pot for a long time. It will clear out the accumulation of natural salts in the pot that can be interfering with fertilizer uptake into the plant.

Epsom Salts can keep your tomato and pepper leaves greener and bushier and enhance the production of healthier fruit. It also helps to prevent blossom-end rot. Meat of the fruit will be significantly thicker as well. Apply 1 tablespoon granules around each plant at time of transplant and scratch into the soil or spray the solution on at that time. Spray again at first flowering and fruit set.

Epsom Salts will not correct a large soil magnesium deficiency so be sure to test your soil first. It will however work as a supplement to soils slightly deficient in magnesium. Epsom Salts can be applied directly on the soil, but it works better when combined with water and directly applied to the plant or sprayed on the foliage.