Question
Hi,
I'm doing a project on what type of water is best for a plant's growth, and what is your opinion? Tap water, spring water or bottled water?
Thank-you!

Answer
Hi Susie,

I cannot answer your question directly because the content of tap water, spring water and bottled water varies from one location to another and from one brand to another.

Although plants do use minerals that they absorb through their roots, they use those minerals in very small quantities and the soil has an adequate supply of them. If the mineral content of water is high, then the excess minerals can damage the roots. Hard tap water has a high mineral content and is not good for plants over a long period of time as the minerals build up around the roots. Tap water that is pH neutral is fine for plants.

The content of spring water varies with the spring that it comes from. In general, spring water has some mineral content that could potentially not be healthy for plants, but it would depend on the mineral concentration.

Bottled water is unregulated and there is no telling what you are getting. There are reports of some companies filling their bottles with tap water, slapping on a fancy label, and selling it at a nice profit!

Distilled water, rainwater, and filtered water are all free on minerals and are a good option for plants in locations where tap water is on the hard side.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

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