I use backing soda 1 teaspoon to 8 oz cup of water. to 1 gal water But try to use regular tap straight 1 gal at a time too increase it first checking PH each time before you add chemicals. Tap water is usually 7.8 and up unless filtered. Once you have the right PH, 6.5, continue to PH at 6.5 when watering and feeding. Always PH after adding nutes, etc. to the water . Little steps grow big buds.