“ Being able to monitor the overall levels can be not only helpful but can alert a grower to possible mistakes in solution mixing .”
The easiest way to ensure the solution is a mixture of the desired elements is to add them in the correct proportions , such as by following a manufacturer ’ s recommended feeding chart . To correct imbalances in a recirculating system , the nutrient solution can be replaced periodically to rebalance the mix of available nutrients in the solution . Parts per million ( PPM ) and total dissolved solids ( TDS ) meters use the same principle . In fact , they are fundamentally the same EC meter with the results displayed slightly differently . There is currently an issue with the lack of a standard conversion between EC and PPM which often leads to confusion . Depending on which of the three most popular PPM standards are used , the conversion factor is 0.5 , 0.64 , or 0.7 . Less commonly used is total soluble salt ( TSS ) which is x10 the EC reading . Hydroponic gardeners can use EC meters to check the quality of the starting water , ensure freshly mixed nutrients are within expectations , and check recirculating nutrient solutions to determine if more nutrient solution or just more water should be added . It is an important tool in a hydroponic gardener ’ s toolbox . On the other hand , those who rely on more traditional organic nutrients tend to rely on sources other than salts to deliver their nutrients , and as a result EC metering of organic-based nutrient solutions is less useful and often not done . Adding more kelp to a nutrient solution doesn ’ t make the EC change as much as a similar amount of salt would .
An EC meter is an essential tool to hydroponic gardening . Since the only nutrients available are those administered by the gardener , being able to monitor the overall levels can be not only helpful but can alert a grower to possible mistakes in solution mixing .
26 Maximum Yield