The use of pH meters in hydroponic growing and gardening is crucial to accurately measure the acidity or alkalinity of a solution. By detecting hydrogen ion activity in solutions the pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, with 7 being neutral; values below 7 indicate acidity, while values above 7 indicate a base. pH meters are more precise than pH test strips; with pH meters measuring pH in resolutions of 0.01-0.001 units, while test strips generally have resolution of 0.5-1.0 units.
Testing pH in hydroponics
Measure pH of water and nutrients
The pH reading determines the alkalinity or acidity of your solution. Monitoring and regulating your pH ensures that your plants can efficiently uptake mineral nutrients. If the solution is too alkaline or acidic for your particular plants requirements, the nutrient uptake is blocked and your plant will never reach its full potential. For most hydroponic plants, a pH reading of 5.8 will encourage your plants to flourish and give you the best results.
