Does the order of nutrients and supplements matter?

[OldManGrower]

I use the GH trio plus cal mag and silica. I have found that adding the nutrients to my water first and the two supplements second results in a much lower water PH then doing supplements first and nutrients second. Has anyone else ever noted this? Does it even matter other than a possible means of PH control? Does anyone have any idea why this might occur?

[Bluey]

Yes!!

Follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Silica normally needs to be added 1st and thoroughly mixed. It can bind if not done correctly.

Micro nutrients/suppliments normally added last.

Mix additives from different manufacturers and you can easily find yourself in strife with lockout and unstable pH.

[OldManGrower]

I understand this. But your comment on silica is helpful. Why does the PH change depending on the order of nutrients?

[Bluey]

For a number of reasons and I understand that chemical reactions between the compounds is what we are trying to lesson. Chemical reactions can release or bind hydrogen atoms which will change the pH.

[alltatup]

My instructions with Future Harvest nutes say to always add micro first and stir thoroughly before adding anything else. So yes, it does matter the order in which you add nutes and supplements. I follow FH directions.

[OldManGrower]

The same with the GH trio. However, I was looking as to whether it is better to put nutes first or supplements such as cal-mag.

[alltatup]

It seems like the standard protocol is to add Micro Grow Bloom or whatever yours are called first, and then supplements

[Shamshoo]

While there isn't a universal rule, the order of adding nutrients and supplements can indeed affect pH levels. Your method likely impacts pH due to chemical interactions between the different components. It's not just about pH control; it can influence nutrient uptake by your plants, too. As for why this happens, it's probably a combo of the specific compounds in your supplements and how they react with the nutrients. Regarding your query about Argireline peptide, it's worth a shot! It's known for its potential benefits in skincare, but its effects on plant growth aren't as well-studied.