pH and EC
Why pH Matters
pH tells you how acidic or alkaline the solution is. It controls how well plants can take up each nutrient, so a solution that is out of range can starve plants even when the nutrients are present.
Checking and Adjusting pH
- Measure pH with a meter or test kit, ideally at the same time of day.
- Most hydroponic crops grow well in a slightly acidic range. Check the guide for the crop you are growing, because requirements vary.
- Adjust with a pH up or pH down product, a little at a time, and measure again after mixing.
What EC Measures
EC (electrical conductivity) or TDS (total dissolved solids) measures how much nutrient is in the solution. It is a guide to strength, not a complete picture of what is in the water. Follow the fertilizer label and the crop requirements for your target, and lower it if plants show burn.
Maintenance
Calibrate meters as the maker recommends, and store the probes in the storage solution, not plain water.
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