Coke for lowering PH level for roses?

Question

I desperately need to lower the ph level for my potted rose bushes. I came across these tips http://voices.yahoo.com/a-garden-chemist-lists-6-simple-ways-lower-soil-11170378.html?cat=32 which involved using coke, OJ, and vinegar.

Has anyone tried this? I know it says temporary but I need the fastest way possible. It's been rainy here and is expected to continue to rain, if I try this how do I compensate the dilution with the extra water from rainfall?

Like I said, my roses are already in pots and I don't want to risk damaging the roots by digging or tilling sulfur or amendments into it just yet.

(I had thought the soil would be alright when I bought it, but I didn't test the soil until after they started drooping and realized the problem)

fluffernut · Accepted Answer

Unless the soil pH is above 8.0 or 8.2, relax.  Plants are very forgiving. The dropping can be from any number of different reasons.  It may not be pH, but rather salt, TSS, total soluble salts.  Drainage, lack of can cause roots to rot and the plant droops.  Transplant shock.....how long have the plants been in their pots?  What were their condition prior, did the soil fall off the roots when you transplanted? (see root loos above).  
Cold, heat and wind damage can also cause drooping or prolonged (days ) of poor light.

Going for a sudden quick fix to pH will be worse.  The change causes release of salts into the soil which in turn burn the roots.  Before I'd blame the soil, I'd be looking at other factors....transplanting technique to start.

sciencegravy · Answer

Fluffernut is correct.  If it's in potting soil, the ph is probably fine.  And bad ph doesn't cause rapid onset of problems, but rather a long, slow "I'm not happy" kind of of gradual decline.

I'll be money on a trasnplant issue, or water issue.  Overwatering is a very very common problem for potted roses and newbie gardeners, and can cause drooping leaves.

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Coke for lowering PH level for roses?

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