The Heat Is On: Unraveling The Mystery Of Hot Water And Cannabis Growth

Hot water can be beneficial for growing pot, but it depends on the temperature. Watering plants with hot water can be an effective way to treat pests and diseases. It can also be used to clean leaves and remove sticky stains. However, water that is too hot can damage plants. The ideal water temperature for plants is between 68 and 78°F (20 and 26°C), and water above 120°F (49°C) can harm the roots and cell structure. Boiling water can be used to remove weeds, but it should not be poured directly on desired plants.

Hot water can be used to clean leaves

Hot water can be an effective way to clean the leaves of your houseplants and get rid of pests. However, it is important to be cautious when applying hot water to your plants as it can also be harmful if not done properly.

The ideal temperature for hot water to clean your plant leaves is below 120° Fahrenheit (49° Centigrade). At this temperature, the water will effectively remove sticky stains and common leaf pests. Above 120° Fahrenheit, the hot water can cause leaves to wilt, reduce microbial activity, and decrease nutrient availability in the soil. Therefore, it is crucial to use a thermometer to ensure the water temperature does not exceed this limit.

For smaller plants with smaller leaves, you can dunk them in a bucket of lukewarm water. Hold the plant at the soil level and invert it into the water, swishing the leaves gently. Water the soil beforehand to prevent it from falling out. You can also wrap plastic wrap around the base to contain the soil. Remember to use lukewarm water, as water that is too hot or too cold can harm the plant. After dunking, let the plant drip dry before placing it back in its usual spot.

For larger plants or those with thick layers of dust, mix a small amount of liquid soap with lukewarm water and gently mist it onto all parts of the plant. Then, rinse the plant gently with more lukewarm water. Avoid using leaf shine products, as these can interfere with the plant's ability to breathe and photosynthesize.

Additionally, be cautious not to get hot water on the leaves and crown area of the plant, as this can be dangerous. Always protect the leaves and crown from the heat and apply hot water directly to the root zone. After cleaning, dry the leaves with a soft towel or cloth to avoid water spots.

By following these steps, you can effectively use hot water to clean the leaves of your houseplants, ensuring they are pest-free and healthy.

Warm water is better than cold water

Water temperature affects the amount of dissolved oxygen (DO) available for your plants. DO is required for optimal plant development, especially root formation, nutrient absorption, and photosynthesis. A higher DO level is a good indicator of water quality. Generally, the ideal water temperature for plants is between 68 and 78°F (20 and 26°C). Within this range, the dissolved oxygen level is greater than 8 mg/l, which is perfect for promoting healthy root development.

Using water that is too hot can damage the cell structure and root system of a plant. Water above 120°F (49°C) can cause leaves to wilt, reduce microbial activity, and decrease nutrient availability in the soil. It can also kill beneficial microorganisms in the soil, such as rhizobia, mycorrhizal fungi, actinomycetes, and diazotrophic bacteria, which are essential for producing nutrients and plant growth hormones, and can protect against pests, parasites, and diseases.

Cold water, on the other hand, can also be detrimental to your plants. Water below 40°F (5°C) can induce root shock, resulting in long-term root harm, leaf droop, and even plant death. Using cold water below 68°F (20°C) may not kill your plants, but it can cause them to go dormant and stop growing new leaves or flowers.

Therefore, warm water is ideal for growing pot, as it provides the necessary dissolved oxygen for plant development while avoiding the negative consequences of water that is too hot or too cold. It is important to monitor the water temperature and ensure it stays within the optimal range to promote healthy plant growth.

Hot water can be used to kill weeds

Weeds like dandelions and plantain have thick, fleshy roots that extend deep into the soil—much farther than surface water can reach. Boiling water can kill the tops of these weeds, but because the soil insulates the roots, they will regrow.

If you want to try this method, it is important to be careful. Boiling water can harm the beautiful plants and flowers you want to preserve, as it is difficult to pour water on weeds without it spilling over onto other plants.

If you are looking for natural alternatives to herbicides, there are several options. You can try hand-pulling the weeds, hoeing and tilling, mulching, or using horticultural vinegar products.

Hot water can prevent pests

Hot water can be an effective way to prevent pests and pathogens on your marijuana plants. It is a safe and environmentally friendly alternative to pesticides when applied properly.

The ideal temperature for hot water to be effective against pests is 120°F (49°C). At this temperature, the water can be used to eradicate pests such as aphids, scale, mealybugs, and mites. The hot water bath technique involves immersing the entire plant pot into a bucket of hot water at 120°F for 1-10 minutes. It is important to ensure that the temperature of the root ball does not exceed 115°F to avoid damaging the plant.

Another technique is the hot shower technique, where you spray your potted plants with boiling water at 120°F for 5 minutes, followed by a 1-minute cold rinse to prevent heat damage. This process can be repeated three times to effectively get rid of nymphs and crawlers.

It is important to note that hot water above 120°F can damage the cell structure and root system of the plant. Therefore, it is crucial to monitor the water temperature with a probe thermometer and avoid pouring hot water directly on the leaves.

In addition to pest control, hot water can also be used to sterilize the soil before planting. By cooking the soil in the oven at 160-180°F for 30-45 minutes, you can kill all molds, pests, weeds, and seeds that may be present.

By incorporating these hot water techniques into your marijuana plant care, you can effectively prevent and control pests in a safe and environmentally friendly manner.

Hot water can be used to resuscitate wilted flowers

Hot water can be used to clean leaves, but only if the temperature is below 120°F (49°C). Warmer water can cause leaves to wilt, reduce microbial activity, and decrease nutrient availability in the soil. Boiling water can also be used to remove weeds from your garden. The hot water kills the roots of weeds while leaving your plants intact. Additionally, heat kills most fungus spores, bacteria, mites, and insects.

Hot water can be used to eradicate pest infestations through two techniques: the hot water bath and the hot shower. For the hot water bath, immerse your entire plant pot into a bucket of hot water at 120°F for 1-10 minutes. This method is effective in eliminating pests such as aphids, scale, mealybugs, and mites. However, ensure that the temperature of the root ball of your potted plants does not exceed 115°F, or you may harm the plant.

For the hot shower technique, spray your potted plants with boiling water at 120°F for 5 minutes, then give them a 1-minute cold rinse to prevent heat damage. Repeat this process three times to effectively get rid of nymphs and crawlers.

Hot water can also be used to revive cut flowers. Florists recommend using warm water to resuscitate wilted flowers, as it is absorbed more quickly by the plant. For woody or badly wilted stems, very hot water (180 to 200°F) is recommended. To revive flowers, fill a very clean heat-resistant container with boiling water. Wrap paper around the stem of the flower to protect it from the hot steam, unless the stem is long enough to keep the flower tipped away from the steam. Cut about an inch off the end of the stem and immediately plunge it into the hot water. Let it sit for a few hours or until the flower has revived, then transfer the flower to clean, cool water.

While hot water can be beneficial in certain situations, it is important to note that water temperature affects the amount of dissolved oxygen available to your plants. A water temperature between 68 and 78°F (20 and 26°C) is ideal, as it promotes healthy root development. Water temperatures above 122°F (50°C) can be harmful to plants, damaging their cell structure and root system.

Frequently asked questions