How do I test and adjust my pH?

Whether you're using our pH Test Kit or a digital pH Pen, we’ll walk you through how to measure and adjust your water's pH with confidence. With time, you’ll get a feel for how much pH Down is typically needed to bring your water into the desired range.

pH Test Kit

  1. Growing with the original Farmstand? Watch the video here. Growing with the Nook? Watch the video here. 
  2. Fill the test bottle with 5 mL of water from your Farmstand reservoir.
  3. Add 5 drops of test solution, cap, and swirl gently.
  4. Use the included color chart to identify the pH level of your water. The ideal range is 5.8–6.2.
  5. If above 6.2, make sure the pump is running, then add 10–20 mL of pH Down (10 mL if slightly high, 20 mL if over 7.0). Let circulate 5 minutes, then re-test.
  6. If below 5.8, remove a few gallons of water, replace with fresh water, and re-test. Repeat if needed.

 

pH Pen 

  1. Rinse the sensor with clean water.Collect a sample of reservoir water in a clean container.
  2. Turn on the pen and place it in the sample (don’t submerge past the immersion line).
  3. Stir gently for ~30 seconds until the reading stabilizes—ideal range is 5.8–6.2.
  4. If above 6.2, ensure the pump is running, add 10–20 mL of pH Down, let circulate 5 minutes, then re-test.
  5. If below 5.8, swap a few gallons with fresh water and re-test.

Safety & Storage Notes

pH Down

  • Contains phosphoric acid.
  • Use care when handling. Avoid contact with skin, eyes, and clothing.
  • Keep out of reach of children.
  • Store in a cool, dark place.

pH Test Kit

  • Use with care; product may stain.
  • Avoid skin and eye contact.
  • Keep out of reach of children.
  • Store in a cool, dark place.