Most people pour pasta water straight down the sink. But if the water is unsalted and allowed to cool completely, it can provide a small boost of nutrients and starch that many garden plants appreciate.
Pasta water contains trace amounts of minerals and starch released during cooking. While it shouldn’t replace regular fertilizer, it can be an easy way to reuse kitchen scraps and give certain plants a little extra nourishment.
However, it’s important to note that you should never use pasta water that contains salt, oil, butter, or sauce residue, and only apply it occasionally rather than every time you water. Used correctly, it can be a simple way to give some garden favorites a small nutrient boost.
Here are some plants that love pasta water.
Tomatoes
Tomato plants are heavy feeders that benefit from additional nutrients throughout the growing season. A light watering with cooled pasta water can help support healthy foliage and fruit production.
Related: 10 Tomato Growing Tricks That Lead to a Garden Full of Fruit
Peppers
Whether you’re growing bell peppers or spicy varieties, these plants enjoy nutrient-rich soil. The minerals found in pasta water may help support vigorous growth and larger harvests.
Eggplants
As members of the nightshade family, eggplants have nutritional needs similar to those of tomatoes and peppers. Occasional applications of unsalted pasta water can provide a gentle nutrient boost during the growing season.
Basil
Basil grows quickly and benefits from consistent feeding. Using cooled pasta water from time to time may encourage lush growth and plenty of flavorful leaves for harvesting.
Related: 10 Things People Commonly Store in Plastic Containers That Actually Don’t Belong There
Oregano
This hardy herb doesn’t require much fuss, but it can still benefit from the nutrients found in pasta water. Just be careful not to overdo it, as oregano prefers well-drained soil.
Thyme
Thyme is another herb that can benefit from the minerals left behind in cooking water. A small amount every few weeks is usually plenty for this low-maintenance plant.
Roses
Roses are known for their appetite for nutrients. The potassium and trace minerals found in pasta water may help support healthy growth and abundant blooms.
Geraniums
These popular flowering plants appreciate occasional feeding throughout the growing season. Unsalted pasta water can serve as a mild supplement to your regular fertilizing routine.
Petunias
Petunias bloom best when they receive consistent nutrients. Occasionally, reusing pasta water may help keep plants healthy and in bloom throughout the season.
Hydrangeas
Hydrangeas enjoy moisture and nutrient-rich soil, making them good candidates for the occasional dose of cooled pasta water. The added minerals can help support healthy foliage and strong flower production.
