The Effects of Microplastics on Plants

Microplastics, and the effect they have on the environment, are a huge issue for our planet. In fact, research suggests that as many as 358 trillion microplastic particles are currently floating on the surface of our oceans, with limited solutions to solve the issue.

However, in recent years, concerns about microplastics have grown well beyond our oceans and have made their way into our gardens, as microplastics in soil are becoming an increasingly pressing issue.

For gardeners, florists and plant lovers alike, understanding how microplastics affect plant growth is key to nurturing healthy, vibrant flowers, as well as making changes to prevent this issue from worsening, and leading a life of sustainable growing.

So, what are microplastics, and where do they come from?

Microplastics originate from a wide range of sources, including the breakdown of larger plastic items, synthetic fabrics, and even common everyday gardening materials such as plastic plant pots and trays. 

As these containers break down over time, especially when exposed to sunlight and harsh temperature changes, they shed minuscule plastic fragments into the soil. These are often less than 5mm in size, so they are hard to spot with the naked eye!

So, can plants absorb microplastics? Research suggests that microplastics in soil can disrupt the natural ecosystems across the planet, and directly affect how plants grow. 

They can do this in many different ways:

Soil Structure Disruption - Microplastics can alter the composition of soil, reducing its ability to retain much needed water and nutrients. This can lead to weakened root development and stunted growth in both flowers and plants.

Toxic Leachates - Some plastics contain additives or chemicals, such as BPA or phthalates, which may leach into the soil over time. These substances can be absorbed by surrounding plants, potentially stunting growth and harming any beneficial organisms in the soil.

Root Interference - Microplastics can also physically obstruct root systems, stopping their ability to spread, and take up essential nutrients and moisture that they need to grow.

Impact on Microbial Life - As we know, healthy soil consists of microorganisms that support plant life, yet microplastics in soil can interfere with this, both reducing biodiversity and compromising soil health over time.

Whenever we go, microplastics are everywhere, even in the flower fields we may walk by every day. However, there are some changes we can make to avoid shedding any microplastics in soil to stop the effects of microplastics on plants.

While plastic plant pots are a staple of modern gardening due to their affordability and convenience, these common storage solutions can be extremely harmful when it comes to plant care.

However, over time, even the highest quality plastic containers can degrade and contribute to microplastic contamination—especially when reused across multiple seasons or left exposed to the elements to break down.

As such, the team here at Eflorist have shared 5 ways you can avoid the effects of microplastics when growing plants and flowers in your home and garden:

1. Switch to a ceramic plant pot

The benefits of ceramic pots for plants is not to be ignored, as switching to ceramic pots is a simple yet effective way to reduce microplastic pollution in your garden, and they offer several different advantages.

First, they are non-toxic, as unlike plastic, ceramic materials do not leach harmful chemicals into the soil. Ceramic plant pots are also more resilient to weathering and UV light, meaning they last longer and break down far less easily, stopping the spread of microplastics in soil.

Finally, unglazed ceramic pots allow for better airflow and moisture regulation, helping prevent root rot and promoting stronger, healthier root systems—something a gardener dreams for. However, be sure to choose a ceramic pot with a hole in the bottom, as this makes it easier for drainage after watering.

 

2. Use organic soil and compost

Most conventional soils and composts can sometimes contain traces of microplastics. By choosing certified organic compost, you can ensure that it’s made from natural, uncontaminated materials. 

However, you can also make your own compost at home using kitchen scraps, garden cuttings and leaves, which allows you to take full control over what goes into your soil, and keep it plastic-free.

 

3. Create mulch with natural materials

Plastic mulches and weed barriers are commonly used to suppress weed growth and retain moisture, but they can break down over time and release microplastics in the soil.

Switching to natural mulching materials, such as bark chips, straw, shredded leaves, or even coconut husk, will offer the same benefits without the environmental cost. 

These materials also help to improve soil health as they decompose, returning vital nutrients back into the earth to support plant growth.

 

4. Avoid having synthetics in your garden, such as artificial grass

Artificial grass, polyester garden furniture covers, and synthetic outdoor rugs can all shed microplastics into the soil, especially after heavy rain or UV exposure. 

To avoid this, opt for natural materials wherever possible, such as jute, cotton, or hemp, which are all biodegradable.

It’s important when choosing fabrics or textiles for your garden to look for those labelled as compostable or made from 100% natural fibres, so keep this in mind when purchasing your garden furniture and decor.

 

5. Use natural plant food

Finally, opting for natural plant food or homemade compost can help to reduce chemical input, and improve soil structure for your plants.

Many synthetic fertilisers are not only packaged in plastic, but can also contain polymer-based coatings designed to slowly release nutrients, contributing to the pollution of microplastics in the soil.

Instead, opt for natural alternatives like worm castings, seaweed extract, or aged manure, as these organic options enrich the soil with nutrients while supporting crucial microbial life, which in turn boosts plant growth and flower quality.