Hydroponics

A TDS tester is critical when growing plants by hydroponics.

Hydroponic gardeners all over the world monitor nutrient levels in roughly the same way—by measuring total dissolved solids in the growing solution — but they have different preferences for the format of their test results. Growers in the U.S. often examine a simple ratio known as parts per million PPM). High concentrations of salts increase the solution’s electrical conductivity (EC).

Total dissolved solids readings help to indicate the density of solution which can help to determine when it’s time to add nutrients. Temperature can affect TDS/EC meter readings. It is important that you read your hydroponics nutrient packaging carefully to make sure feeding indications correspond with your meter.

Hydroponics TDS/EC Meter (aka nutrient or "ppm" meter):

 

 

 

COM-100

Hydroponics pH Meter:

 

 

 

PH-200




SUGGESTED TDS LEVELS FOR HYDROPONICS

 

Information below provided by Sunleaves.

 

For great results, consult the ppm table below for assorted fruits, veggies, herbs and tropicals. Keeping your nutrient solution at the right concentration is important for maintaining optimum growth!  (TDS level ranges below are listed in ppm.)

Species	TDS Range		Species	TDS Range
African Violets	840-1050		Ficus	1120-1680
Artichoke	560-1260		Garlic	980-1260
Asparagus	980-1260		Gladiolus	1400-1680
Aster	1260-1680		Impatiens	1260-1400
Bananas	1260-1540		Lavender	700-980
Basil	700-1120		Leek	980-1260
Beans	1400-2800		Lettuce	560-840
Blueberries	1260-1400		Mint	1400-1680
Broccoli	1960-2450		Okra	1400-1680
Cabbage	1750-2100		Palms	1120-1400
Carnation	1260-2450		Parsley	560-1260
Carrots	1120-1400		Peas	980-1260
Cauliflower	1050-1400		Rosemary	700-1120
Celery	1260-1680		Sage	700-1120
Chives	1260-1540		Spinach	1260-1610
Cucumber	1190-1750		Strawberries	1260-1540
Eggplant	1750-2450		Thyme	560-1120
Endive	1400-1680		Tomatoes	1400-3500
Ferns	1120-1400		Zucchini	1260-1680

 

 

Useful Information:

TDS/EC/pH FAQs

Click here to read an article about Calibrating and Caring for Your pH Meter, from the July 2010 issue of Urban Garden Magazine.  The article was written by Rob Samborn, Director of Sales & Marketing for HM Digital.

Click here to read an article about TDS and EC Meters for Hydroponics Explained, from the June 2010 issue of Maximum Yield Magazine.  The article was written by Rob Samborn, Director of Sales & Marketing for HM Digital.