guide Ā· Beginner
Measure pH and EC without fooling yourself
A practical measurement routine for nutrient solutions and source water.
Key takeaways
- Calibrate with fresh standards.
- Rinse probes without wiping sensitive glass.
- Read pH and EC as trends with context.
What the readings mean
pH describes hydrogen ion activity and affects nutrient availability. Electrical conductivity reflects the solutionās overall ionic conductivity; it does not identify individual nutrients.
Calibrate before decisions
Use standards that bracket expected readings, follow the meter makerās storage guidance, and never store a pH electrode dry unless its documentation explicitly permits it. Temperature-compensated readings still benefit from samples reaching a stable temperature.
Interpret a trend
Record readings at a consistent time alongside water additions and plant stage. A rising EC can reflect water uptake faster than nutrient uptake; falling EC can indicate the reverse. Diagnose from the whole system, not the number alone.