Don't Forget pH Meters for Hydroponics

Over the past decade, hydroponics has greatly challenged the efficacy of traditional farming

. While conventional agriculture is highly influenced by natural climate conditions, nearly all factors of hydroponics farming are controlled and monitored by the farmer. The methods of hydroponics were used prevalently in biological research labs in the past, as vegetation could grow without the presence of soil, but through the medium of a mineral rich liquid solution. Companies as GrowLab provided a controlled miniature gardening area for schools and labs, to grow a small number of vegetation for studies. Some commercial farms turned such small GrowLab concept into large enterprises to cultivate plants solely on hydroponic science. In fact, EuroFresh Farms, the largest hydroponics farm in the world, produced more than 50,000 tons of tomatoes in 2005. After installation, the maintenance cost and other expenses to produce crops through hydroponics is much cheaper than the cost incurred from farming on soil.

From temperature and humidity to amount of light and fertilization, indoor farming can be closely managed to produce top quality crops. Even if the gardener does not have a specific building to grow a small indoor garden (to grow orchids or flowers), GrowLab offers large grow "rooms" that can be set up like a tent, with various features including reflective interiors, multiple exhaust ports, and waterproof floors. After deciding on the location or a GrowLab product to begin a hydroponics garden or farm, it is important to realize that nature will no longer aid the growth of the vegetation. Every factor such as humidity, temperature, CO2 levels, and artificial light must be considered for a successful harvest.

While people know to purchase products for illumination and mineral nutrients to successfully grow plants, many forget about the importance of having pH meters. pH levels are indicators of acidity, and soil or cultures can be measured through pH meters. Managing the pH level of the soil (or liquid culture) is very important, as pH affects the absorption of plant nutrients and the spread of plant diseases. Most plants prefer a slightly acidic soil, and will be tolerant of changes in the pH level within the 1 point range. pH meters can effectively monitor the acidity of the hydroponic farm, and the gardener can respond to maintain an optimal level of pH for the specific type of plant. Several custom automated products (CAP) have functions to measure the humidity, temperature, and pH levels, which will also perform the functions of simple pH meters.

The art of growing quality vegetation requires close attention, and the result is highly affected by the smallest details the gardener or farmer makes. By adjusting the pH levels about twice a year, the grower can expect to attain differentiated products that are more sweet or vibrant in color. For instance, top quality watermelons can be achieved when the soil is slightly acidic, about 5.5 to 6.5 in pH levels. Even if vegetation is grown in small lab structured facilities as offered by GrowLab, pH meters will allow plants to develop in the best environment.

Don't Forget pH Meters for Hydroponics

By: Vikram Kumar

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