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OfflineB4rK0d3
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pH Levels with Gypsum or Calcium Carbonate
    #10314126 - 05/09/09 07:25 PM (14 years, 10 months ago)

I'm having a bit of difficulty understanding the information in the FAQs regarding pH levels in coir as a substrate and stabilizing this with calcium carbonate. I have a few questions that hopefully someone can help me demystify.

First, I'm reading in the 60/40 coir casing tek that calcium carbonate is used to stabilize the mix. This is either crushed oyster shell or limestone, correct? With coir, am I looking to lower or raise the pH levels? I understand that some of the acid released by mycelium seeps into the substrate and somehow it needs to be regulated with a proper mixture.

Also, I was told by a worker at a garden supply store that gypsum can lower pH levels. Is this true?

Edited by B4rK0d3 (05/09/09 07:27 PM)

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OfflineRogerRabbitM
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Re: pH Levels with Gypsum or Calcium Carbonate [Re: B4rK0d3]
    #10314230 - 05/09/09 07:56 PM (14 years, 10 months ago)

If you're using coir as a substrate, no pH correction is required.  Add gypsum at about 5% by volume to the amount of coir.  Gypsum has minimal effect on pH.  It's used to supply calcium and sulfur, essential elements that many substrates are lacking in.
RR


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Invisiblemycoprog
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Re: pH Levels with Gypsum or Calcium Carbonate [Re: B4rK0d3]
    #10314235 - 05/09/09 07:57 PM (14 years, 10 months ago)

also coir is nutritious so i would stay away from using it as a casing.


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OfflineB4rK0d3
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Re: pH Levels with Gypsum or Calcium Carbonate [Re: mycoprog]
    #10314252 - 05/09/09 08:00 PM (14 years, 10 months ago)

Well, that's great news. Thanks for the advice, RR and mycoprog.

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OfflineDuggstarMDiscord
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Re: pH Levels with Gypsum or Calcium Carbonate [Re: B4rK0d3]
    #10314270 - 05/09/09 08:04 PM (14 years, 10 months ago)

Crushed oyster shell or limestone is used in casings to raise the ph.

With coir you want to raise the ph but not by as much as you would peat.  Use about 5% by volume.

Use gypsum to prevent ph swings and to add nutrition to your substrate.

Gypsum is ph neutral.

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OfflineMykologist
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Re: pH Levels with Gypsum or Calcium Carbonate [Re: Duggstar]
    #10314314 - 05/09/09 08:12 PM (14 years, 10 months ago)

calcium carbonate will act as a buffer (a slightly basic buffer). As pH drops, it dissolves and neutralizes the acid. Calcium Sulfate is fairly water-insoluble. Technically, it should become acidic in water (it's a slightly acidic buffer), but since it's so insoluble, you shouldn't have anything to worry about. It will dissolve more in a basic solution.
  Calcium Sulfate prevents sticking and im pretty sure gives vital minerals for the mushies.
Coir is pretty neutral. I'd add maybe less than 5% by volume oyster shells. That's what I used and had fantastic results.
Good Luck!
Myk


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