6 Genius Uses for Borax In The Garden


Borax is a natural mineral that contains acidic properties. People have been using it as a natural cleaner for many years. Nowadays, borax has become an essential ingredient in numerous laundry and cleaning products. Not only that, but it can also be used for various household chores. However, the most surprising thing is that borax can be beneficial for your garden. Here, we will introduce you to 8 genius and clever uses of borax in the garden. Check them out!

clever uses for borax in a garden

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Is Borax Safe?

Borax, a versatile mineral, can be safely used in the garden. It is a natural and environmentally friendly option for various purposes. However, it is essential to use it responsibly and in moderation. When used as directed, borax is generally considered safe for plants and the surrounding ecosystem.

Where Can You Find Borax?

Finding borax for your gardening needs is quite easy. It is readily available in many stores, both online and offline. You can check your local garden supply centers, hardware stores, or even supermarkets. Additionally, you can also find borax in the laundry detergent aisle of some stores, as it is commonly used as a cleaning agent. Always ensure that the borax you purchase is pure and does not contain any additional additives or fragrances.

1.Borax as a Fertilizer

A lack of boron can result in stunted root growth, especially in sandy and acidic soils. You can use borax as a fertilizer, but it’s crucial to follow the recommended amount, as excessive use can harm plants. For a large garden, six tablespoons of borax are sufficient, while for a small to regular-sized garden, one or two tablespoons will do. Mix it with the soil when you plan to fertilize. Since the mineral accumulates in the soil, there’s no need to apply it frequently.

2. Weed Control

Excessive borax can kill plants, making it an effective natural herbicide for weed control. You can sprinkle borax directly onto weeds or create a liquid solution by mixing 10 ounces of borax with 2.5 gallons of water. Use a sprayer to coat the leaves of unwanted weeds in your garden or any areas with weed growth. Be careful to avoid overspray on your desirable plants and prevent direct contact with bare skin.

3. Disinfect and Clean Garden Tools

Borax is an excellent cleaner that can be used to disinfect and clean your garden tools, gardening gloves, gardening apron, and more after a rewarding day of gardening. Simply mix half a cup of borax with a gallon of hot water to create your cleaning solution. Once cleaned, rinse them thoroughly and let them dry in the sun.

4. Pest Control

Create a paste by mixing equal parts borax, honey, or powdered sugar, and a small amount of water. Place this mixture strategically in your garden. Ants will be attracted to the borax mixture and eventually perish. Borax can also be effective in killing off roaches. Avoid using borax near your vegetables as it can be toxic when ingested. If you have pets or children, do not leave borax traps accessible to them.

5. Improve Soil Quality

Dying leaf tips, darkened fruits or leaves, dead areas in the roots, and cracked or hollow stems are all symptoms of boron deficiency in the soil. In such cases, you may need to use borax to add boron to your soil, promoting better and healthier crop growth. Certain plants, such as cabbage, celery, strawberries, and apples, require more boron than others.

6. Deodorize

Borax can help prevent unpleasant odors in the garden. Excessive use of synthetic fertilizers, mulch, and pesticides often contributes to bad smells in a garden. This problem can be easily solved by using borax.

7. Keep Mice Away Forever

You can say goodbye to mice once and for all with the help of borax. These little critters can’t stand this natural substance on their paws. So, if you’re facing the annoyance of mice nibbling on your precious fruits and vegetables, look no further than borax. It’s the ultimate solution to your problem.

8. Keep Flowers Fresh for Longer

Are you a fan of plucking flowers from your garden but get frustrated when they start wilting too soon? Well, worry no more because borax is here to save the day once again! By removing excess moisture, borax acts as a flower preserver, preventing premature wilting of both leaves and blossoms. To keep your cut flowers looking fresh, simply mix one part borax with two parts cornmeal in a vase or container, and then place your beautiful blooms inside.

In Conclusion

These versatile uses of borax in the garden demonstrate why many gardeners prefer using it instead of chemical fertilizers and weed killers.