How to Change the pH of Water for Plants

Watering your plants with the right pH level is crucial for their healthy growth. The pH level of water determines the availability of nutrients to plants, which affects their ability to grow and develop. In this article, we will discuss different ways to change the pH of water for plants.

Determine the pH Level of Your Water

Before you start adjusting the pH level of your water, you need to know the current pH level. You can buy pH testing kits from garden centers or online stores. Fill a small container with water and dip the pH testing strip into it. The strip will change color, which indicates the pH level of your water. The ideal pH level for most plants is between 6.0 and 7.0. If the pH level of your water is too low or too high, you can adjust it accordingly.

Increasing the pH Level of Water

If the pH level of your water is too low, you can increase it by adding some baking soda to the water. Baking soda has a pH level of around 8.3, which can raise the pH level of your water. Mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda with 1 gallon of water and stir well. Test the pH level of the water again and make adjustments as needed. Alternatively, you can add some crushed eggshells or limestone to the water, which can also increase the pH level.

Decreasing the pH Level of Water

If the pH level of your water is too high, you can decrease it by adding some vinegar or lemon juice to the water. Both vinegar and lemon juice have acidic properties, which can lower the pH level of your water. Mix 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice with 1 gallon of water and stir well. Test the pH level of the water again and make adjustments as needed. Alternatively, you can add some organic matter, such as peat moss or wood chips, to the water, which can also lower the pH level.

Using a Commercial pH Adjuster

If you are not comfortable using household items to change the pH level of your water, you can use a commercial pH adjuster. These products are available in most garden centers or online stores. They come in liquid or powder form, and you will need to follow the instructions on the label to use them. Be sure to test the pH level of the water after using a commercial pH adjuster to ensure that the pH level is within the range that your plants need.

Conclusion

Watering your plants with the right pH level is essential for their healthy growth. You can change the pH level of your water by using household items such as baking soda, vinegar, or lemon juice. Alternatively, you can use commercial pH adjusters that are available in most garden centers or online stores. Remember to test the pH level of the water before and after you make adjustments to ensure that it is within the ideal range for your plants.