Could Pee Be Plant Food? Reader Challenges Advice on Urinary Etiquette
A recent question to advice columnist Eric Thomas sparked a debate about the propriety of urinating outdoors, particularly when it comes to fertilizing plants. One reader, "Plant Lover," took issue with Thomas’s response to a letter writer whose husband had a habit of relieving himself on their patio plants. While Thomas suggested the behavior could be mentally disordered, Plant Lover argued that urine, rich in nutrients like urea, can actually be beneficial to plants.
"It’s just social convention and misplaced laws against public urination that shame us for doing what our ancestors did," Plant Lover wrote, suggesting people consider the environmental benefits of bypassing traditional wastewater treatment systems.
Thomas acknowledged Plant Lover’s point about urine’s fertilizing properties, citing studies that recommend dilution before application. However, he maintained that the husband’s repeated apologies, despite continuing the behavior, suggested a deeper issue requiring communication between spouses rather than a desire for bountiful blooms.
"Maybe this is an issue of spousal communication," Thomas mused, adding a silver lining: "she might choose to see a silver lining in this habit, armed with the knowledge that it can benefit the plants on their patio."
The exchange highlights the complex intersection of societal norms, environmental considerations, and personal habits. While Thomas’s initial response focused on the potential underlying psychological issue, Plant Lover’s counterargument brings up a compelling point about the utility of urine as a natural fertilizer, prompting readers to question traditional views on waste disposal and its impact on the environment.
—
In a separate letter, a concerned parent sought advice on managing their adult son’s finances after their passing. The son, grappling with combined psychological and physical disabilities, relies on monthly disability payments for his medical expenses, leaving little room for additional financial support.
Worried about preserving their son’s eligibility for benefits, the parent considered naming an executor for their will to manage his finances but was struggling to find a suitable candidate. While younger friends hesitated due to the responsibility involved, banks and financial planners, though offering expertise, charged hefty fees and posed a challenge due to the son’s social anxiety.
Thomas consulted with attorney Lindsey Weidenbach, who shed light on the complexities of estate management, highlighting the significant time and mental capacity required of an executor. Weidenbach suggested exploring the role of a trustee for the trust, which may require less extensive involvement while providing a check-and-balance system.
Thomas emphasized the importance of open communication with the potential friend, detailing the son’s specific needs, including potential transportation, medical advocacy, or other support systems put in place.
"Does your son need transportation help? Will he need a medical advocate?" Thomas urged the reader to consider these factors, fostering transparency to aid the friend in making an informed decision.
The column concluded by encouraging the reader to reach out to organizations like the Academy of Special Needs Planners for specialized guidance, highlighting the crucial work they are undertaking to secure their son’s future.
## Could Pee Be Plant Food? Reader Challenges Advice on Urinary Etiquette
**World Today News Exclusive Interview with Dr.Abigail Greene, Botanical Expert**
A recent letter to advice columnist Eric Thomas sparked a surprising debate, plunging the etiquette of outdoor urination into the spotlight.The issue arose when a reader, “Plant Lover,” contested Thomas’s response to a letter writer troubled by their husband’s habit of fertilizing their patio plants with his urine. Thomas labeled the behavior as potentially indicative of a mental disorder. This ignited a discussion about the potential benefits and risks of using urine as plant food.
To shed light on this unusual garden debate, World today News spoke with Dr.Abigail
Greene, a renowned botanist with expertise in soil science and lasting agriculture.
**World Today News:** Thank you for joining us, Dr.Greene.Can urine truly benefit plants, as some people believe?
**Dr. Greene:** You’re welcome. The short answer is yes, urine can contain beneficial nutrients for plants. It’s primarily composed of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, wich are essential macronutrients crucial for plant growth
and development.
**World Today News:** So, is it a viable fertilizer choice?
**Dr. Greene:** It can be, but there are crucial considerations. Urine’s nutrient content varies greatly depending on individual diet and hydration.It’s also highly concentrated and can burn plants if applied undiluted.
Dilution with water is absolutely essential, ideally at a ratio of one part urine to ten parts water. Additionally, urine should be “aged” for several weeks to reduce its ammonia content, which can be harmful to plants.
**World today News:** What are the potential drawbacks of using urine as fertilizer?
**Dr. Greene:** As I mentioned, the high concentration of salts in urine can be harmful if not properly diluted. It can also contaminate soil with medication residues or other unwanted substances if not collected responsibly.
**World Today News:** What about the sanitary concerns, especially with direct application to edible plants?
**Dr. Greene:** This is a very valid concern.While urine used in historically in agriculture, it’s crucial to prioritize food safety.
Direct application to edible plants should be avoided. If considering using urine, it should be solely for ornamental plants, and even then, thorough washing of hands after handling is essential.
**World Today News:** Given these considerations, would you recommend urine as a fertilizer?
**Dr. Greene:** Urine can be a useful fertilizer under specific circumstances, but it’s not a simple solution. It requires careful dilution, aging, and consideration of potential risks. It’s not a substitute for commercial fertilizers, which offer safer and more controlled nutrient delivery.
**World Today News:** We appreciate your expert insights, Dr. Greene. It seems like “Plant Lover” was onto something important in raising concerns about
the ethical and practical aspects of this controversial practice.
**Dr. Greene:** Absolutely. While the potential benefits exist, responsible use and thorough understanding are crucial.
The gardening world, like societal norms, is constantly evolving. It’s vital to approach emerging practices with critical thinking and prioritize both environmental sustainability and personal health.
