Smitty

Hi everyone... This is my first post, and my question is about methods for reducing Ph levels... Since there isnt a hydro store too nearby, and Ive got some seedlings just starting their 2nd set of leaves currently in a 10 gal Rubbermaid bubbler - I needed to get the Ph down it was aroun 7 - 7.5 (hard to really tell with the Ph test kit that uses the dye)... I went to a pet store that was pretty close, and found a Ph down powder (actually called Ph Minus). Its chemical comp is Sodium dihydrogen phosphate... has anyone ever tried using this? Im not sure, but Im worried that the fact that there's sodium in it will increase my ppm substantially, or lock out the nutes or a host of other potential problems...
Any help would be appreciated...
I do intend to get the GH Ph Down, first chance I get.


Drive fast - Take chances - Die screaming!

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Smitty

highonline

I'm using soil, and am no expert in this perticular field, but i've used Vinegar to bring down PH level, this also works in aquariums.

And also usded Baking soda to raise it.

highonline.

Smitty

Yah... Ive read that a couple other guys used vinegar, but never found out if it has any harmful effects, like maybe canceling out some nutes or some other whacky thing... IM still considering using baking soda and vinegar to create CO2.

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Smitty

smokaspliff

Lime juice works, but the problem that I have with it is it doesn't last very long. After only a few hours the ph rises again. It's the same deal with vinegar. I was using ph down for fish aquariums before this and it was a little more stable, but I wonder about it being ok for the plants. It was sulphuric acid. I think that the best thing is definately the gh stuff.

peace

hydrogirl

I use vinegar! I haven't had any problems with the Ph rising later on, although I do change my solution every week, sometimes every 2. I never add any water unless it is treated, and it works like a charm. My Ph here runs at about 8.0/8.2 right out of the tap. Very cheap alternative to the store stuff. Good luck!