PH issues

[jimmyjoe]

I add the nutrient solution to my reservoir with a ph reading of 6.0. When I test the reservoir solution afterwards it is up to 7.0. How do i stabilize my ph and keep it at 6.0?

[DW2]

Howdy jimmyjoe, First, what was the reservoir pH before the nutrient mix was added in? Second, what kind of reservoir (plastic, etc..) and how old is it (how many grows done in it)? The plastic totes take some time (a couple of grows and cleanings or so) for them to become pH stable. I had similar problems with new reservoirs, but they eventually settle down. Another thing is that You do not want the pH to stay at any particular reading as the plants ability to take up different nutrients requires different pH levels. That is why a range (5.5 to 6.5) is recommended.The pH will change in the solution as the nutrients a removed by the plants. I nearly killed the plants on one grow by trying to maintain a constant 6.0 level. Now I let the level vary and that keeps the plants and my stress levels down (lol).