PH factor

[CTB]

Tell me something about PH, what should it be and is it different for different orchids,. My moisture meter has a PH phase I can use but I don't know what to look for.

Is there a goal to try and reach, and what brings up or lowers PH levels. . Thanks in advance

[CTB]

More questions what happens to the PH with superthrive? ThanksI

[Masdyman]

Hello ,PH is a important factor when growing orchids or any plant for that matter .But is something that most don't go into as it can seem a hassle .Lots of things alter ph ,fertilizers,vinegar ,lime ,baking powder and many more !
Orchids grow in Acid,Neutral and Alkaline , ph 7 being neutral ,acidic below 7 & Alkaline above 7 .
So it is best to know what the orchid you are growing prefers ,a goodle search should sort this out .Most orchids prefer acidic thats why rain water is recommended but this can be too acidic.
If the PH isn't correct then certain minerals/elements of feed can be locked out so a plant can become defficient of that element.
I aim for a PH range of 6.0 to 6.2, i never go below 6.0 but may sometimes go up to 6.3 or so if i am not too far out .
I use a PH pen ,and adjust the PH with PH up & Down that you can get from hydroponics stores .
I have found that superthrive lowers the PH even at small doses ,all i would say is if you feed /supplement with ST etc then check the PH at the end and adjust the PH if necessary .I use RO and always have to lower the PH ,when i used rain water i always had to make it higher.
Hope this gets you started .

[Ray]

I find that anywhere from 5.5-6.5 is fine for most orchids.