The Best Water for Your Plants: Distilled Water or Filtered Water
Written by Naya Prokopiou
Last updated: Jan 9, 2025 • 5 min read
After more than a decade of maintaining aquariums and tending to my water lily ponds, I've discovered something fascinating: not all water is created equal, especially when it comes to our leafy friends. Let me share what I've learned about choosing the perfect water for your plants, including some insider tips from my own garden sanctuary.
The Hidden Power of Aquarium Water
Let me start with my favorite secret weapon: aquarium water. Every time I perform a water change on my tanks, my plants practically dance with joy. This nutrient-rich cocktail, filled with beneficial bacteria and natural fertilizers like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, has transformed my indoor jungle. I've watched my Monstera double in size after regularly treating it with this liquid, aquatic gold.
The real magic happens when I submerge my moss poles in my lily pond. The gentle ecosystem created by the water lilies and lotus provides a perfect natural fertilizer bath. The plants respond dramatically - their aerial roots grow thicker and healthier, and new leaves emerge with vibrant color.
Understanding Your Water Options
Rainwater: Nature's Perfect Solution
Nothing quite matches rainwater's natural goodness. While I'm fortunate to have ponds that collect it, even a simple rain barrel can make a huge difference. The minerals and slight acidity in rainwater help plants thrive in ways that tap water simply can't match.
Filtered and Tap Water
Most of us rely on tap water, and that's okay. However, letting it sit for at least 24 hours before using it, won't do the trick. What you actually need to do instead is to treat it with an [aquarium water conditioner] like we do in aquariums, even if you don't have one. If you're using filtered water, you're already ahead of the game - it removes many harmful chemicals while retaining beneficial minerals.
The Truth About Distilled Water
While distilled water might seem pure, it's actually too pure for most plants. It lacks the minerals that plants need for healthy growth. I've seen the difference firsthand when comparing plants watered with distilled water versus those getting aquarium water - the latter consistently show more robust growth and deeper colors.
Softened Water: A Hidden Danger
Here's something many plant parents don't realize: softened water can be detrimental to your plants. The added sodium disrupts their water balance, essentially tricking them into thinking they're hydrated when they're actually thirsty. I learned this the hard way with a precious calathea that started showing brown edges after using softened water.
Making the Most of What You Have
The best water choice often depends on your specific situation. While I'm lucky to have access to aquarium and pond water, I understand not everyone keeps fish or has a water garden. Here's what I recommend:
If you have fish, use that aquarium water! It's liquid gold for your plants.
Collect rainwater when possible - even a small collecting vessel helps.
If using tap water, treat it with [aquarium water conditioner].
Consider mixing water sources for optimal results.
Special Cases
Some plants, like carnivorous and moss, are particularly picky about their water. For these sensitive souls, I rely on rainwater or aquarium exclusively. It's worth knowing which of your plants might have special water requirements.
As we become more aware of water conservation and plant care, considering water quality becomes increasingly important. I've found that understanding water quality isn't just about plant health - it's about creating sustainable care routines that benefit both our plants and the environment.
Remember, the best water for your plants is often a combination of what's available to you and what works best for your specific plants. Experiment, observe, and adjust based on how your plants respond. After all, every plant parent's journey is unique, just like every plant's needs.
Plant Care with Naya Prokopiou
Plant enthusiast Naya Prokopiou, with years of knowledge, shares houseplant care tips to help others create thriving indoor gardens, craft unique terrariums, and transform their spaces into living works of nature art.
This post contains affiliate links [green links]. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support my content creation at no additional cost to you.
Read more
Master Calathea plant care with this detailed guide. Learn everything about lighting, watering, soil mix, and propagation to help your Calathea plants live their best lives!
Before you dive into the rewarding world of indoor plants, let's cover the essential tips that will help you avoid common pitfalls and set you up for plant parenthood success.
Every plant parent knows that success with houseplants isn't just about green thumbs – it's about having the right tools to help you. These essential tools and clever household solutions will transform your plant care routine.
FOLLOW
