It is widely known that Epsom Salt has many benefits for the human body and improves our health in multiple ways. Whether it is flushing toxins, reducing inflammation, increasing nerve function, easing muscle pain, acting as a laxative, or remedying migraine headaches, Epsom salt is here to help us heal and feel better. It does not end there, however, as there are several more uses for Epsom salt, one of which is in your veggie garden.

eat drink gardenEpsom salt is a pH neutral pure mineral compound composed of magnesium and sulfate that occurs naturally, which makes it excellent for use in gardening. If you have used it in the past or use it currently, you are likely familiar with its plethora of benefits. In the even that you are not yet on the Epsom salt bandwagon, here are five reasons to consider giving it a try:

1. One of the most troublesome issues a gardener faces is pests, but that is less of a problem with Epsom salt in your arsenal. Since it is compose of sharp crystals that are irritable to pests, it acts as a natural deterrent, keeping unwanted creatures at bay.

2. Nutrient absorption can be increased through the use of Epsom salt. Simply adding it to soil is effective enough at speeding up nutrient intake to a point where the need for commercial fertilizer can be drastically reduced, if not eliminated entirely, saving you time, energy, and money.

3. Germination can also benefit from the use of Epsom salt. Use it as a soil amendment to improve soil properties and give seeds an infusion of growth potential from the get go by adding a mere tablespoon per hole as you plant. When seeds begin to grow and are ready for transplanting, shock is possible, but in much the same way as it eases trouble with the human body, Epsom salt can ease the roots of plants during the transplanting transition. Just apply a tablespoon around each transplant and let the Epsom salt do the rest.

4. If you've ever noticed leaves curling, a magnesium deficiency could be to blame. To remedy this, mix a couple of tablespoons of Epsom salt in a gallon of water and stir until dissolved. Apply directly to leaves for a quick fix. For tomato plants, biweekly applications of two tablespoons of Epsom salt dissolved in a gallon of water directly to vines also prevents blossom end rot.

5. If color is lacking, this could be due to a magnesium deficiency as well. Since magnesium plays an important role in chlorophyll production, not having enough can cause leaves to take on a yellowish tint instead of the vibrant green we wish to see. To remedy this issue, sprinkle Epsom salt in the soil around plants to beef up chlorophyll. Increased chlorophyll also equates to faster growth and higher levels of sugar, which creates sweeter tasting fruits and veggies.

If vibrant plants with bountiful production and strikingly colored flowers sound like something you desire, give Epsom salt a try. It is available in drugs stores everywhere and is cheap to purchase. Additionally, it can save you money on commercial fertilizers and prevent plant loss, making it all the more worthwhile of an investment in your garden.