A warning about using tap water versus rain water for sensitive seedlings

I started a batch of native lupine seeds from a local seed swap about six weeks ago. Half got my city's tap water, which I always used before, and half got collected rain water. The difference was huge. The tap water group stayed small and a few got yellow leaf tips, a classic sign of salt or chlorine burn. The rain water plants are twice as big, with deep green leaves and stronger stems. Our water here is hard, and I think the minerals were just too much for the young roots. I'm switching everything over now. Has anyone else seen this kind of jump with just a change in water source?

2 comments

2 Comments

angela_perry6d ago

Hard water is a killer for seedlings. My city water left white crust on the pots. I started filling a bucket and letting it sit out for a day before watering, which helps some. But rain water is the real fix. I keep a couple of big plastic tubs by the downspout now. The plants just look happier, you know? It's free and it works.

troymorgan6d agoMost Upvoted

My well water's fine, actually.