Question for Ms. Stinky:

[Mr. GreenJeans 800]

You gave me previous help on a PH questions and I have done as you suggested to check the PH of the run-off.

The PH was about 5.3 when I w3atered (no ferts) and the run off was about 8.3.

I was hoping you could let me know if this is acceptable - or what I need to do to get it down.

Everything actually looks very good so should I leave well enough alone?

Thanks.

[grey1223]

8.3 is awfully high. Is there a chance your ph reading if off? What's your medium? I've always had problems keeping my ph high enough.

[stinkyattic]

Oh shoot, sorry I missed this last week :blush:
That seems like a REALLY crazy swing! That would suggest that your actual soil pH is even HIGHER than 8.3! Are you completely sure that your meter is working right?
How are you checking the pH at each step?

[Mr. GreenJeans 800]

I have recalibrated my meter and the tapwater is 8.3!

This is right as I'm using strips as well.

So I have been lowering it to about 5.5 and I just checked the run off and it is 7.0. Did it just get wicked high (pun not-intended) from the intial high ph waterings?

Thanks for the help - no big deal about you missing this - I knew you'd answer when you had a chance.

Having said all that here's a pic - day 33 - I think were doing o.k.
- anyone thoughts?

Thanks.

[stinkyattic]

Sounds like you are right on! Keep track of the runoff, because it will drop now that you are watering with much lower pH. Always watch runoff numbers- that's going to drift over time. Actually, a proper flush using pH 6.3 water to lower the pH back into range is probably your best bet. REmember to give a FEEDING at the end of the lfush period too!