What happens when you water a plant with pee?

Using urine as fertilizer can have both benefits and drawbacks for plants. Here's what happens when you water a plant with pee:

Benefits:

- Nitrogen Source: Urine contains nitrogen, which is a crucial nutrient for plant growth. Nitrogen helps plants produce chlorophyll, which is essential for photosynthesis.

- Potassium and Phosphorus: Urine also contains potassium and phosphorus, which are important nutrients for plant growth and development.

- Non-toxic: Urine, when diluted, is generally non-toxic to plants and does not contain any harmful chemicals that would damage the plant.

Drawbacks:

- Imbalance of Nutrients: Urine contains a high concentration of nitrogen compared to other essential nutrients like phosphorus and potassium. This imbalance can lead to nutrient deficiencies in plants if used excessively.

- Burning: Undiluted urine contains a high concentration of salts and urea, which can cause nutrient burn in plants. This can damage the roots and leaves of the plant.

- Pathogens and Bacteria: Urine can contain harmful bacteria and pathogens that can pose health risks to humans and animals if they come in contact with the urine or plants watered with undiluted urine.

- Odor: Undiluted urine has a strong odor that can be unpleasant and may attract pests.

- Over-fertilizing: Using urine too frequently can lead to over-fertilizing, which can cause stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and even plant death.

Recommendation:

To safely use urine as a fertilizer, it is recommended to dilute it with water at a ratio of 1:10 (one part urine to ten parts water). This dilution helps balance the nutrient concentration and reduces the risk of nutrient burn and other potential issues. It is also advisable to avoid using urine from individuals who are taking certain medications or have medical conditions that may affect the composition of their urine.

Overall, while urine can provide some nutrients for plants, it should be used with caution and moderation as an occasional supplement rather than a primary fertilizer.