Wetting Agent

What is a Wetting Agent?

A wetting agent (also called a surfactant or spreader) is a substance that reduces the surface tension of water. Normally, water tends to form droplets with a high contact angle on waxy or hydrophobic plant surfaces, causing it to bead up and roll off rather than spread out evenly. A wetting agent changes this behaviour so that water (or water-based solutions) spreads into a thin, uniform film across leaf surfaces and other plant parts.

Plant Soap (Horticultural Soap)

Plant soap, commonly known as horticultural soap, is a specially formulated potassium-based fatty-acid soap designed for use on plants. It is highly concentrated, biodegradable, and contains no added fragrances, dyes, thickeners, or detergents found in household dish soaps.

Horticultural soap is an excellent wetting agent and spreader. It also lowers water’s surface tension so sprays spread and stick better. Many gardeners regularly use a weak horticultural soap solution as a gentle leaf wash, especially on indoor plants, greenhouse crops, or outdoor plants.