The Orchid Garden

Move to RO system

Question:

Hello everyone, I’m just about finished installing an RO water system in my greenhouse to counter the effects of our diminished quality city water. Does anyone have information about the need to remineralize the water: minerals, quantities, frequency, sources of supply, etc.? I’m new to this list, so if this topic has been discussed _ad nauseum_, please just point me to a reference. TIA. — LenB Time and tide melts the snowman. —Dr. Who

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hello everyone, I’m just about finished installing an RO water system in my greenhouse to counter the effects of our diminished quality city water. Does anyone have information about the need to remineralize the water: minerals, quantities, frequency, sources of supply, etc.? I’m new to this list, so if this topic has been discussed _ad nauseum_, please just point me to a reference. TIA. — LenB Time and tide melts the snowman. —Dr. Who

 Adding fertilizers to RO water can really lead to VERY strong bases or acids. I use 1/4 to 1/2 strength DynaGro 3-9-6 or 7-7-7 plus 1/2 strength ProTekt, and the pH is wonderful (slightly acid) and the plants are doing great. — Ray Barkalow – First Rays Orchids   On-line List and Order Form:     http://www.firstrays.com

Response:

Excerpts from netnews.rec.gardens.orchids: 20-May-97 Move to RO system I’m just about finished installing an RO water system in my greenhouse to counter the effects of our diminished quality city water. Does anyone have information about the need to remineralize the water: minerals, quantities, frequency, sources of supply, etc.?

By experience, I find that calcium and magnesium (ions) must be added to the RO water. Most fertilizers do not contain these elements.  There are several ways to do this, but I find using Peters CalMag EXCEL formula to be fine.  The only problem this presents is that the pH of the solution goes down to about 3.5 with CalMag, and pH-up (KOH) has to be added. I try to keep the pH at about 6.   RO water is great for phrags; for some to do well it is essential. C. VanDyke

Response:

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