A good way to use up old sponges is to place them in the bottom of the pots before adding soil. This allows the sponges to absorb excess water when watering and then slowly release it again, providing continuous hydration to the roots. They also help improve drainage by preventing plants from getting waterlogged.
2. Bury them in garden soil
If you have areas in your garden that dry out quickly or where plants tend to need more water, you can bury old sponges around your plants. When the soil is irrigated or receives rainwater, the sponges store excess water and gradually release it again. This gives plants longer access to water, especially in the dry season.
3. Reduce water consumption
In areas with a dry climate or during heat waves, old sponges can be a great ally to reduce water consumption. By keeping the soil moist for longer, the plants remain fresh and healthy and watering is less frequent. This is especially useful in large gardens or if you want to minimize your water footprint.
