Pro-Mix Problems

[Smoking Gun]

So I have been using Pro-Mix BX recently and have been having issues with the pH of the run-off. The run-off pH is reading just under 5.0 which is too low. Has anyone else experienced this? It seems as though it is a new problem with Pro-Mix. I have tried using dolomite lime to bring the pH up, but still the readings are not where they need to be. Does anyone have any suggestions to deal with this issue?

 

[Seamaiden]

I don't use Pro-Mix, but if I recall it's a mix of coir and sphagnum. The sphagnum can and will cause a low pH of the run-off. In fact, I've used it as a filter media to naturally soften and acidify a water column for delicate freshwater fishes.

You can use much harder water, that should help alleviate and elevate the pH.

 

[KushCompass]

How do your plants look?

 

[oscar169]

What size are the pots that u are using & how old is the plant ? I ues Pro-Mix BX by the pallet never had the problem.

 

[catdaddy]

i used to have the same problem until i started ph'ing my water/solutions around 6.6-6.7.

 

[squiggly]

When working with peat/sphagnum--sometimes it can be beneficial to soak your media and pH it prior to planting. While it naturally acidifies--it will hold it's pH fairly well if you adjust it initially.

Be prepared to add an ass ton of pH up--it would be best probably if you used a natural solution for this rather than the chemical stuff.

If you're working with a ton of media, obviously this doesn't help--but if you're on a smaller scale it's probably your best bet (in the future).

As for now, just water with higher pH--and slowly drift the pH down as your runoff measurements stabilize where you want them. I usually have to do this from the other direction (as my media is generally very basic).

 

[oscar169]

I always ph my water to 6.5, have used Tons & I really mean Tons of that BX with out any problems, you can top dress the pots with Dolimite Lime, it will bring the PH back up over a few weeks time.

 

[squiggly]

Consider amending with oyster shell flour, or chipped oyster shells.