Add cheap bathroom ingredient to your soil and watch roses bloom bigger than ever

Roses are a favourite amongst gardeners because of their large fragrant flowers. A gardening expert has shared that one common bathroom item can make them bigger

Roses are a gardener's delight and there is a natural method to enhance their health and produce larger blooms using an item likely found in your bathroom.

Deb, a seasoned gardener with over two decades of experience and the founder of Woodbridge Greenhouses, revealed that Epsom salts can be used on roses to help them flourish and yield bigger flowers. "I have used many home remedies for roses," she said. "Banana peels, egg shells, coffee grounds and soapy water all can benefit your roses and banish pests and diseases. "So began a brief exploration into Epsom salts. If used as directed, Epsom salts are said to make plants stronger, produce lusher foliage, bigger blooms and encourage roses to send out new canes (branches) low on the bush."

So, what are the benefits of feeding Epsom salts to roses?

Epsom salts, commonly used as a bath soak to soothe skin or treat sore feet, also serve as a natural fertiliser for roses due to their magnesium content, reports the Express. Deb explained: "Epsom salts are naturally occurring minerals known as magnesium sulfate which were first found in Epsom, France. Cartons of Epsom salt are often located in drug stores and groceries in the same areas as laxatives or sore muscle potions (a clue to some of their other uses)."

Magnesium aids flowers in nutrient absorption, promoting growth and potentially leading to more abundant blooms. This means you could enjoy more vibrant roses in the next flowering season. If your rose leaves are turning yellow, they might be suffering from a magnesium deficiency. Sprinkling Epsom salts around them can rejuvenate your rose bushes, leading to a much healthier plant. Epsom salts are also a great way to deter slugs from your garden as the salt content dehydrates them, causing death, but it's gentler than regular salt and won't harm the soil.

Here's how to whip up a natural fertiliser using Epsom salts

Simply mix one tablespoon of Epsom salts near the base of your rose bush, about two inches away. It's crucial to water your plants thoroughly after applying the fertiliser so that the Epsom salts can integrate with the soil. Alternatively, dissolve two tablespoons of Epsom salts in a gallon of water and douse the roots. However, take care not to splash the leaves damp foliage at this time of year is a magnet for fungal diseases.

Experts suggest feeding rose bushes with Epsom salts just twice annually to avoid excessive magnesium, which could disrupt soil nutrient balance. Deb advised: "The amounts of Epsom salt are intended for average to large-sized plants. If your Roses are minis or small bushes, use just one-fourth to one-third of the measurements. If you are unsure, it is recommended to test your soil before amending it."

By treating your roses with Epsom salts, you're bound to see bigger, more vibrant blooms. Plus, any leftovers can be used for a sumptuous soak in the tub. Deb revealed a top tip for gardeners and self-care enthusiasts alike, saying: "Once you have treated your roses to an Epsom salt treatment, fill a washtub with hot water and a handful of Epsom salts. It's time to treat your tootsies." You can snag Epsom salts at most supermarkets or pharmacies, but if you're popping into Tesco, expect to shell out £3.50 for a one-kilogram bag.