Baking Soda as Fungicide: Efficacy, Safety, and Application

Sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) reduces fungal spores but doesn’t kill them. EPA-cleared for edibles; minimal soil buildup.

Best Practices

• 1% solution: 1 tsp baking soda + 1 gal water.
• Add 1 tsp dormant oil + ½ tsp dish/horticultural soap (surfactant).
• Apply on dry, cloudy days to prevent leaf burn.
• Test on small area first.
• Never use bleach-based soaps; avoid hot/sunny days.

Short-term benefits for powdery mildew and foliar diseases on fruits/vegetables. Not a miracle cure, but safe and helpful.