What should the PH of the water Drainout be?

[kdspecial]

I am new to growing and I am slowly learning about how important Ph levels are to the success of all plants. I have measured the Ph of my soil Coco and its measures from 6.5 to 7. I have also tested my water with no nutes and thats measures 7. I tested my Nutes alone and they are at 3 (base).

I have herd of measureing the ph level of the drainoff water. What is the benifit of this and how do I use the info to make my plants live a happier life?

So when I water my plants and I measure the Ph value of the drainoff around what number do I want to see it at with nutrients and without? the same 6.5 to 7?

And then what sort of things do I add to help maintain this stedy value of 6.5 to 7? Ph up or Ph down from the store?

Any info would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

kd_special

kdspecial Reviewed by kdspecial on 07-19-2006. What should the PH of the water Drainout be? I am new to growing and I am slowly learning about how important Ph levels are to the success of all plants. I have measured the Ph of my soil Coco and its measures from 6.5 to 7. I have also tested my water with no nutes and thats measures 7. I tested my Nutes alone and they are at 3 (base). I have herd of measureing the ph level of the drainoff water. What is the benifit of this and how do I use the info to make my plants live a happier life? So when I water my plants and I measure Rating: 5

[newactivist]

Right the first time, 6.5 to 7. Soil will gradually drop in ph the longer it is used and this can have all kinds of nasty effects. The best way I found to counteract this was to add 2 tbls of garden lime (dolomite lime) per gallon of soil. It will not take your ph above 7 and will stabilize ph levels for the long term. This can be especially important for heavy fertilizing, which can be very acidic.

[kdspecial]

Thanks

Yes I have added one ounce of Lime to my Coco per gallon. So I should be good and I will keep checking my Ph levels.

thanks again

kd_special