Question
Several years ago I worked with acid based fertilizers for use on high ph soils.  Living in the Western states we have naturally high ph soils and I am wondering if there is any good fertilizers for use on house plants and outdoor plants that will work like the acid based product I previously mentioned?  If there is, can you tell me where I can purchase small quantities for use in and around the house?

Answer
Scott's company make a well known fertilizer product line called "Miracle Grow". The acidifying fertilizer relative to this product is called "Miracid" (usually found together with miracle grow packages). Miracid are produced to provide same fertilizer value but with ability to acidify the soil.

For organic alternatives, consider a product by Espoma called "Holly tone". It can be used on any high soil pH or on any acid loving plants. It is a very common product found in most home improvement stores and garden centers. Try to check the organic fertilizer isles.

If you have access to local feed store, try to find cottonseed meal (in fact is is part of the ingredient in Holly Tone). This is a natural organic fertilizer which acidifies the soil.

Sometimes cottonseed meal is also sold in pre-packaged 2 or 5 lbs bags at garden centers (in organic fertilizer isles) and Holytones is available in 5, 10 and 20 lbs bags. Miracid is available in small 3" square boxes (a powder which dissolves in water).

Good luck