Hey guys,

So, there's going to be some clones getting planted in the next 2 days. I've done A LOT of research lately on here, a couple other forums, and of course a quick skimming of The Indoor Grower's Bible. I've been doing my research but I've got a lot to learn.

So, onto my question. A little background information on growing medium... it will be Fox Farms Ocean Forest 80%, Perlite 20%... and possibly a small dose of lime (1 TBSP per gallon). I've seen differing viewpoints on the dolomite lime, but I think if I add a smaller than recommended dose (2 TBSP per gallon) I should be OK. My understanding is that it's very hard to overdose on the Dolomite lime.... it won't buffer any higher than pH 7.0. I also see that Fox Farms soil is at like 6.3 - 6.5 or something. I understand a target pH in soild should be right in this range, about 6.3 - 6.8? So, I'm wondering what pH should I adjust to for my regular waterings?? 7.0 to be neutral.... or 6.5 to aim for the target? I'm a little unclear on this. I assume I don't want to water with pH above 7.0... seems pretty clear.

Also, I haven't tested my tap water, which is what I'll be using (after a 24-48 chlorine evap/temp stabilization period). So, I'm guessing if it's above 7.0 I'll need some pH Down? What do I want to set my pH to for regular waterings? What about when I start adding nutes?

Finally, what tests should I run on my tap water besides pH? I know I need to test the hardness/TDS. What is a good way to do this? I know my municipality probably publishes these parameters coming out of the Water Treatment plant, but it's probably more accurate to test after it's been through the distribution system and entered your home. Also, I've seen some discussion of "E.C." on other forums... What is this? Electrical conductivity? Doesn't make sense.... something else?

Oh yeah, I don't plan on adding ANY nutrients until maybe week 3-4. Then during flowering I plan on feeding MINIMALLY with Dyna Grow all-around bloom mix (or possibly fox farm... just want to get one all around flowering fertilizer that will cover all macro/micro nutes)...

Shit, I know this is a lot of questions, but it seems like this is where people run into a lot of problems. If you have your environment locked down with light/temps/ventilation then this seems to be like the most finicky aspect to growing.

Any help is MUCH appreciated?
lampost Reviewed by lampost on . First grow... Water quality questions (pH, TDS, Hardness)? Hey guys, So, there's going to be some clones getting planted in the next 2 days. I've done A LOT of research lately on here, a couple other forums, and of course a quick skimming of The Indoor Grower's Bible. I've been doing my research but I've got a lot to learn. So, onto my question. A little background information on growing medium... it will be Fox Farms Ocean Forest 80%, Perlite 20%... and possibly a small dose of lime (1 TBSP per gallon). I've seen differing viewpoints on the Rating: 5