Epsom salt has been used as a fertilizer and with organic gardeners for decades. It is believed to aid in plant nutrient uptake.
This coupled with the fact that it is easily soluble in water and leaves no trace of chemical residue, makes it the ideal fertilizer for health-conscious gardeners.
The magnesium in the Epsom salts helps the plant take advantage of the phosphorus and nitrogen in the soil which is an essential component in plant fertilizer.
Sulphate, a mineral component of sulphur which is readily available in nature combines with soil to make essential components which are necessary for the plant uptake. The compounds include phosphorus, nitrogen, and potassium.
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These compounds in conjunction with sulphate, aid in the nutrient uptake of the plant. Epsom being organic is ideal for those who are not into processed chemical fertilizers. Epsom salts also do not leave residue like other chemicals used to help plants in nutrient absorption.
For maximum nutrient uptake, the following are suggestions on using Epsom salt.
Apply the Epson salt on the planting beds or soil before transplanting.
- For established plants, application of the Epsom salt should resume once growth resumes in spring.
- Flowers need an application of the Epsom solution in the ratio of 1 tablespoon to one gallon of water once the bulbs start growth.
- Ensure that you do not encourage growth when winter is approaching but apply Epsom salt  once winter is over.
- Reapply the Epsom fertilizer monthly as the needs necessitate.
- It is a fundamental requirement to have the soil tested. Consider testing before the growing season to ensure that the nutrients you are feeding are utilized and needed by the plants entirely.
- If covering plants with mulch, ensure you move it back so that most of the Epson salt solution gets into the plant and does not get lost in the mulch.