5 Surprising Ways to Use Epsom Salt in Your Garden (That Actually Work)

Epsom salt isn’t just for relaxing baths. If you're looking to nourish your plants naturally, boost growth, or solve common garden problems on a budget, then this is for you. This humble household staple can work wonders. Whether you grow herbs in handmade concrete planters or have a full outdoor garden, Epsom salt is one natural solution worth knowing about.

What Is Epsom Salt?

Epsom salt is made of hydrated magnesium sulfate, a naturally occurring mineral compound. It's completely different from table salt, and safe for plants when used correctly. Magnesium and sulfur are two vital nutrients that support healthy growth, strong roots, and greener foliage.

1. Boost Tomato & Pepper Growth

Tomatoes, peppers and chillies are heavy feeders. Magnesium plays a vital role in fruit development, and a lack of it often leads to yellowing leaves and poor yield.

How to use it: Mix 1 tablespoon of Epsom salt with 4.5 litres of water and apply to the soil every two weeks. For newly planted seedlings, sprinkle a tablespoon of the mixture directly into the planting hole.

2. Encourage Greener Leaves on Herbs & Houseplants

Yellowing leaves in herbs or houseplants often signal a magnesium deficiency. A regular Epsom salt feed can help your foliage look vibrant and healthy again.

How to use it: Dissolve 1 teaspoon of Epsom salt in 1 litre of water. Water your plants with this solution once a month.

This is ideal for potted rosemary, thyme, or indoor ferns in minimalist home decor setups, like our handmade concrete bowl planters.

3. Keep Slugs & Snails Away, Naturally

Don’t fancy chemical repellents in your garden? Epsom salt is a safer, eco-friendly way to deter slugs and snails without harming plants.

How to use it: Lightly sprinkle Epsom salt around the base of susceptible plants, such as lettuce, hostas, or marigolds. The coarse texture is irritating to soft-bodied pests.

4. Improve Seed Germination

For keen seed starters, a quick soak in an Epsom salt solution helps seeds absorb more nutrients from the start. This method is beneficial for root vegetables like carrots, radishes and beetroot.

How to use it: Soak seeds overnight in a solution of 1 tablespoon of Epsom salt per litre of water, then plant as usual.

5. Reduce Transplant Shock

When moving plants into larger pots or repotting them into fresh, new planters, a magnesium boost helps ease stress and encourages strong root growth.

How to use it: After repotting, water the plant with a mild mix of 1 tablespoon of Epsom salt per 4.5 litres of water.

Final Thoughts

Epsom salt is a brilliant, low-cost way to support your plants—indoors or out. Whether you’re cultivating a herb garden in handmade planters or want a greener windowsill, adding Epsom salt to your gardening routine is a smart move.

If you're looking for stylish, sustainable homes for your plants, browse our hand-poured concrete planters and trays designed for slow living and modern interiors.

FAQs About Epsom Salt in the Garden

1. Is Epsom salt safe for all plants? Most plants benefit from occasional magnesium supplementation, but excessive use can lead to nutrient imbalances. Avoid using it on acidic soil lovers, such as azaleas and rhododendrons.

2. How often should I apply Epsom salt? Once a month is usually enough for indoor plants. For vegetables like tomatoes, every two weeks during the growing season is ideal.

3. Can I mix Epsom salt with fertiliser? Yes, it can be used alongside organic or liquid fertilisers. Just don’t overdo it—balance is key.

4. Does Epsom salt change soil pH? No, Epsom salt is pH neutral and won’t alter the acidity or alkalinity of your soil.

5. Is Epsom salt organic? While not officially certified organic, it's a natural mineral and often accepted in organic gardening practices.