Maximum Yield Australia/New Zealand July/August 2020 | Page 45

pH meters should not only be checked and tested monthly,
but they should be re-buffered on a monthly basis. This is
achieved by soaking each of their probes in solutions of
4.0 and 7.0 respectively; each for two to three hours. The limits
on the controllers and pH ranges should be checked monthly.
These may need a periodic tweaking to ensure they are still
appropriate for the crop being grown or for the growth stage
of the crop. Another aspect to check, though it is not a common
occurrence, is to look at the pump’s magnetic components.
Rarely, but sometimes, the metals in some fertiliser
formulations can be attracted to the magnetic pumps. Any
nutrients attached to the pumps cannot of course be utilised
by the crops and this can lead to nutrient deficiencies.
4
5
Manually check the plants that are being autodosed
Don’t neglect or underestimate the human touch when
it comes to the nurturing of plant crops. Autodosing
can prevent many headaches when done correctly, but
it will not automatically treat insect or disease issues.
Pesticide applications can be autodosed, but that will only
be effective if sufficient and accurate pest monitoring,
identification, and remedy selection has been undertaken.
Measure and mix your reservoirs and stock
tanks appropriately
Autodosing will release pre-programmed amounts of
whatever is in those same reservoirs and stock tanks, but
if the concentrations are not correct, either too much or too
little product will be injected. Check the parts per million
(ppm) levels of each nutrient or additive that is to be dosed
at least weekly to maintain proper levels.
Autodosing systems can be a great addition to any grower
looking to improve efficiency in their operation or to improve
plant health and the quality of their overall crops. Like any
system, of course, it is only as useful as the companies
or individuals that design, install, use, and maintain it.
These systems can cost as
little as under one hundred
dollars to many tens of
thousands of dollars.
Consider all the
potential benefits
and drawbacks to
such systems before
taking the plunge
and installing an
autodosing system.
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does your
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grow?
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Maximum Yield 45