HCL use in ferts

Hi, yes you can use HCL in your trace mix. The amount is so small that it is safe to use in the tank. When I used it I added 0.5ml Normal HCl per 500ml trace mix solution. The reason to use it is to prolong the life of the chelator by keeping the solution acidic, nothing else. Keeping it cool and in the dark will also help.

As I've got access to chemicals I've been experimenting with different additives to see their effects. I have found adding 0.4g Ascorbic Acid and 0.2g Potassium Sorbate to 500ml of the trace solution keeps it stable and mold free for months without even having to put it in the fridge.

The food additives are available here in the UK from home brew and wine making outlets.

James

 

Do macro mixes oxidise easily to justify adding an stabilising agent to it?

I normally do separate stock solutions (250ml) for KNO3, KH2PO4 and K2SO4 using distilled water. Do you adivise adding HCl to it?

Thanks,
Evandro.

 

Can you still use the ferts once they have fungus in them?

So...1 ml of HCL per 1 liter of CSM+B trace mix?

I'm a dishwasher at a microbiology lab and they have some fancy ACS certified HCL that I would be using. I'm not sure of the molar concentration, but I think its 10 molar.


I made 7L of trace mix and wasn't yet aware that fungus could happen. What is the "shelf" life of a 350g CSM+B/ 7L H20? I have a bunch of fungus infested stuff, but it comes out of a spigot so very little of the fungus comes through to my graduated cylinder. Is is still safe to use? Can I add some HCL to it to prevent further fungus growth?

thanks,
Creighton