Watering with well water that runs through water softener - Ask Extension
Although from May to October we are able to water the lawn, plants, vegetable garden and bulbs with water from a river provided by Grants Pass Irrigat...
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Watering with well water that runs through water softener #867050
Asked May 04, 2024, 8:04 PM EDT
Although from May to October we are able to water the lawn, plants, vegetable garden and bulbs with water from a river provided by Grants Pass Irrigation District. Some vegetables and herbs during the remaining months are water with well water that has a water softener filter.
Actually in the three years I’ve lived in the Rogue River area, the garden has not done so well, even prior to the water softener being installed. Question:
What effect does salt softener water have on my vegetation?
Thank in advance for responding.
Angella
Josephine County Oregon
Expert Response
Angella,
If the softener is working correctly there is a minimal amount of salt. However, in most cases people choose to install softeners after outside irrigation so they are not treating additional water, and risk extra nutrients being applied. Since the plants have been struggling before that I would suggest a soil test to see if there are some other deficiencies not related to the water. It will also provide information if there is a salt build-up in the soil.
Chrissy Lucas-Woodruff
Outreach Program Coordinator
If the softener is working correctly there is a minimal amount of salt. However, in most cases people choose to install softeners after outside irrigation so they are not treating additional water, and risk extra nutrients being applied. Since the plants have been struggling before that I would suggest a soil test to see if there are some other deficiencies not related to the water. It will also provide information if there is a salt build-up in the soil.
Chrissy Lucas-Woodruff
Outreach Program Coordinator
