I am using fox farm ocean forest soil. It says it is ph balanced at 6.5-6.8. Assuming that the ph has gone up, how would I lower the ph?
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I am using fox farm ocean forest soil. It says it is ph balanced at 6.5-6.8. Assuming that the ph has gone up, how would I lower the ph?
Strips are fine, but you need 2 sets to do it right... The ones you have (broad-spectrum), plus the set that tests between 6 and 7 for soil growers, and between 5 and 7 for hydro peeps. I'm not sure what the specific ranges are, but the narrow-range ones are going to really help pin down your actual pH.
I'm one to talk though because I rarely test any more using that compost I LOVE!!!!
Agway sells CHEAP compost. Teh 'Composted cow manure with humus' is what I use. $2.50 for a big sack. Mix in 30-40% perlite and you're in business. Like, one sack compost and one sack perlite (perlite comes packaged in smaller bags unless you get the bulk stuff). It's a simple solution if you have pH problems often.
after trying several different methods of raising pH, my favorite lately, has been Baking Soda ... my 4.5 tap water, becomes 6.5 with 1/2 teaspoon per gallon ... I like the convenience of it, as well as the easily-dissolvable feature, doesn't clog my watering nozzles ... is there a negative effect of Baking Soda I haven't seen yet ? ... (please say it's OK, I like using it :D) ... sorry about the thread hijack ... :jointsmile:
To raise...Lime would be better since the plants like the calcium, and baking soda is a sodium compound. But as you said, the solubility issue is important. And I have never seen lime go into solution the way I would l.ike to. Liquid up/down is best of all.
To lower... cider vinegar in your watering solution, adjust your fert water to where you want it, 6.5 if your soil pH is way too high, up to 7 if your soil is too acidic.