Can Plants Grow in Coca-Cola?

Basic Plant Needs

• In addition to nutrients in the soil, plants need light and water to grow. When you meet these needs, plants tend to take off on their own and thrive. Stick with fertilizers and organic compounds to supply any missing nutrients. Ensuring the plant receives just the right amount of water can make the difference between a plant that flourishes and one that struggles to grow and eventually dies. Plant roots take in water through the process called osmosis and distribute it through the entire plant structure. When you add foreign substances, such as Coca-Cola, that contain sugar and salt, to the plant they can affect osmosis.

Sugar and Salt Content in Coca Cola

• Before you begin to grow plants in Coca-Cola, consider the salt and sugar content in an 8 oz. can of the soft drink. According to The Coca-Cola Company, the sugar contained in a can of Coke, listed under carbohydrates, is 30g. The total grams of carbohydrates listed on their nutrition label include natural and artificial sugars. Additionally, a can of Coke contains 80mg of salt. In addition to sodium, Coke contains salt compounds, including sodium chloride, which, according to the University of Vermont, is harmful to plants.

Harmful Effects of Excess Salt on Plants

• As water seeps into the soil, the roots take the water and absorb it, nourishing the plant. Salt naturally absorbs water. When you add salt to the water source, the salt becomes like a sponge, taking the water away from the plants. This creates dehydration in the plant beginning with the roots and extending to the entire plant, which will eventually kill the plant. Considering this, the salt content in Coca-Cola may be harmful to plants.

Harmful Effects of Excess Sugar on Plants

• Plants efficiently make all the sugar that they need for food through the process of photosynthesis. When you add substantial amounts of sugar to the water source, the sugar can stop plants from absorbing essential amounts of water. It does this by blocking the flow of water through the soil, as plant roots naturally have no way to absorb extra sugar that is added to the water source.