Cutting Edge Solutions pH Down, 1 qt, case of 12

Phosphoric and Citric Acid Buffer for Lowering Reservoir pH, 1 Qt, Case of 12

Hydroponic nutrient solutions drift out of the optimal pH window as minerals dissolve and plants draw nutrients unevenly from the reservoir, and alkaline drift is the more common direction with most tap and well water sources. Cutting Edge Solutions pH Down combines phosphoric acid and citric acid into a single concentrated buffer built to bring an alkaline reservoir back down into range without overshooting.

The 1 qt case of 12 suits a regular indoor grow or small commercial operation that goes through pH adjustment solution on a recurring schedule.

Key Features & Benefits

• Dual-acid formula — combines phosphoric acid and citric acid rather than relying on a single acid, giving finer control over the pH drop.
• Dye- and preservative-free — formulated without dyes or preservatives to keep the nutrient solution clean.
• Highly concentrated — a small volume adjusts a full reservoir, so dosing should start conservative and build up gradually.
• Packaged for regular commercial use — sold by the case, sized for operations that go through pH adjustment solution on a recurring schedule.
• Works with any nutrient line — adjusts pH independent of nutrient brand, so it pairs with CES nutrients or an outside feeding program.

Who Should Use CES pH Down

Growers working with alkaline tap or well water, or whose reservoir pH tends to climb once nutrients are mixed in, who need a concentrated acidic buffer to bring pH back into range before feeding.

About Cutting Edge Solutions

Cutting Edge Solutions has run its own domestic manufacturing operation since founder John Piccirilli started the company in 2001. pH Down and its counterpart pH Up make up the company's Balance family, the pH-management line that sits alongside the Base, Strength, Mineral, and Advanced Molecular product families. All CES products are formulated and bottled in-house at the company's White City, Oregon facility.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cutting Edge Solutions pH Down?

pH Down is a concentrated liquid buffer that combines phosphoric acid and citric acid to lower the pH of an alkaline nutrient reservoir. It's formulated without dyes or preservatives and sold by the case for operations that use it regularly.

How do I use pH Down correctly?

Add pH Down to the reservoir in small increments, stir or circulate the solution, and test pH before adding more. Because the formula is highly concentrated, a small dose goes a long way, so start conservative and re-test between additions rather than dosing all at once.

What is the target pH range for hydroponics?

Most hydroponic crops perform best in a 5.5 to 6.5 pH range, with many growers targeting 5.8 to 6.2 for the broadest nutrient availability. The exact target can shift by crop and nutrient program, so check the CES feeding guide for specific recommendations.

When would I need pH Down instead of pH Up?

Use pH Down when the reservoir tests above your target range, which is common with alkaline tap or well water or after nutrients raise the solution's pH. If the reservoir instead tests below range, pH Up is the correct product to raise it back up.

Is pH Down safe to handle?

pH Down is a concentrated acid blend that can burn skin, so gloves and eye protection are recommended when handling or dosing it. Store it away from children and pets and rinse any skin contact immediately with water.