Hydrogen peroxide (formula H2O2) is a chemical compound that’s a combination of hydrogen and water. The clear liquid acts as a mild antiseptic and comes in various potencies depending on its purpose: 3 percent (household use), 6 to 10 percent (hair bleaching), 35 percent (food-grade) and 90 percent (industrial). Most stores carry the 3 percent solution, packaged in a signature brown bottle.
Hydrogen peroxide has found its uses in cleaning, bleaching, sterilizing and disinfecting due to its antimicrobial and oxygen generating properties. Aside from these uses, hydrogen peroxide can be very useful in your garden too.
In this article we will show you the 6 best ways to use Hydrogen Peroxide in your garden for a better growing season.
Disinfects Tools, Pots and Greenhouses
Hydrogen peroxide has antimicrobial effects and therefore is used in the medicine for sterilizing tools and work surfaces. You can also use hydrogen peroxide to disinfect seed trays, pots and other containers in the garden before you use them again. Disinfect pruning tools in 6%-9% solution. Use the solution in a sprayer to disinfect the air and the surfaces in greenhouses.
Hydrogen peroxide is very effective against most types of bacteria, fungi and viruses. It’s even effective against spores when applied at concentrations above 10%. But you must be really careful when handling such concentrated solutions because it can burn your skin and plant tissues.
Destroys Mold and Mildew
Thanks to its one extra oxygen molecule, hydrogen peroxide has strong oxidizing properties which are fatal for mold and mildew. Add 10 tablespoons of 3%-6% hydrogen peroxide in a liter of water. Put the mixture in a spray bottle and apply it on the plants every day until the fungus disappears.
Kills Weeds
Clean your sidewalks or concrete pavements from the unwanted weeds with hydrogen peroxide. Pour 10% concentration of hydrogen peroxide on weed and leave it on to scorch the leaves as well as the plant parts below. For prolonged action, is best if you apply the solution in the early morning or late evenings since the sunlight quickly breaks down hydrogen peroxide.
Destroys Mold and Mildew
Thanks to its one extra oxygen molecule, hydrogen peroxide has strong oxidizing properties which are fatal for mold and mildew. Add 10 tablespoons of 3%-6% hydrogen peroxide in a liter of water. Put the mixture in a spray bottle and apply it on the plants every day until the fungus disappears.
Keeps Pests and Insects Away
Another use of hydrogen peroxide is as a pesticide. Mix equal amounts of water and 3% hydrogen peroxide and spray the mixture on the plants. This solution will not only kill the pests but it will kill their eggs too. Hydrogen peroxide also kills the bacteria which develop on fruits and vegetables.
Sanitizes Seeds
To prevent seed-borne pathogens killing off young seedling, disinfect them before sowing. Dip the seeds in 3% hydrogen peroxide heated to 1400F for 5 minutes. After 5 minutes, wash off the chemical with plain running water at room temperature for a minute.
The process of disinfecting the seeds when you make sprouts, for personal or commercial use, is very important if you want to avoid food-borne illnesses causes by E. coli, Listeria or Salmonella.