Many of us know aloe vera as the best natural remedy for sunburns. Some of us have also used it for digestive support, but did you know this ancient succulent is an incredibly useful supplement for plant health too?
What's a saponin? And why does my plant want it?
Saponins are organic chemical compounds found in many plants and seeds (including some of our favorite foods). When applied to plants through foliar or soil treatments, saponins have the unique ability to trick a plant into thinking it’s being attacked. When plants are attacked, they create and release aromas to protect themselves (think lavender and rosemary). This is a plants way of protecting itself as these aromas both deter pests and attract beneficials.