How does pH affect hydroponic nutrients?

pH levels are crucial for regulating nutrient availability in hydroponic systems. This measurement defines the solubility of minerals, which varies with what plants can absorb. Even small shifts in pH can often cause reactions different than normal when these shifts exceed .5 units. This can cause chemical reactions that eliminate the absorbing capacity of these essential elements. Your plants are starving to death, surrounded by nutrients they cannot absorb.

My system's pH plummeted to 7.2 during a heatwave, and it was a disaster! Iron deficiency took over the tomato plants overnight, despite the provision of plenty of nutrients. The new leaves became ghostly white, and the flowers dropped off. Within a day or so, I had resolved the problem by adjusting the pH back to 5.8, and the plants began to grow normally, saving the crop.

Test the pH every day without fail. Digital pens render instant readings but should be calibrated once a week. I keep pH test strips handy in case my meter fails. Plants will show visible stress in a few hours when pH levels are extreme, necessitating corrective action.

Change pH using suitable acids and bases. Phosphoric acid is a safe way to lower pH, while potassium hydroxide is a secure way to raise pH. Always dilute concentrates before adding to reservoirs. Never mix the adjustment chemicals directly, as this could cause danger and unstable reactions.

Use buffering agents to stabilize pH. Potassium silicate helps maintain the ranges of 5.8-6.2 in recirculating systems. Buffers are better able to resist changes than using raw acids. In systems with proper buffering, your nutrient solutions will remain ready for plant uptake for a longer period.

Read the full article: Hydroponic Nutrient Solutions: The Complete Guide