pH probe and pH meter for hydroponics and agriculture

pH probes, EC probes and their buffer solutions for agriculture and hydroponics

Discover why correct pH and EC measurement is crucial for healthy plant growth and maximum yield. Read how to measure accurately with a pH meter, EC meter or measuring system and which Meytec pH probes, EC probes and buffer solutions support you best.

In agriculture and hydroponics, pH and EC are the two most important water parameters. The pH value determines how well plants can absorb nutrients, while the EC value (electrical conductivity) indicates the total concentration of dissolved salts and nutrients. An incorrect pH or EC leads to deficiency symptoms, stunted growth or even total crop losses.

Why are pH and EC important for growers?

The pH value indicates how acidic or alkaline the nutrient solution is, on a scale of 0 to 14. Most plants thrive best at a pH between 5.5 and 6.5, because in this range almost all essential nutrients are readily absorbable.

The EC value measures the conductivity of the water, expressed in mS/cm or µS/cm. The more dissolved nutrient salts, the higher the EC. An EC that is too low means undernourishment; an EC that is too high can cause root burn and salt stress.

Consequences of an incorrect pH or EC measurement

• Nutrient lockout: at an incorrect pH, plants cannot absorb certain elements such as iron or calcium, even if they are sufficiently present.
• Root damage: an EC that is too high draws water from the roots by osmosis, leading to burning and growth arrest.
• Loss of yield: both pH and EC deviations reduce photosynthesis and therefore the final yield.
• Susceptibility to disease: stressed plants are more susceptible to fungi, bacteria and pests.

That is why continuous monitoring and regular measurement of both pH and EC are indispensable in every professional nursery or hydroponic set-up.

How do you measure pH and EC in agriculture and hydroponics?

There are two common methods:

• Portable pH meter and EC meter (handheld): a portable meter is ideal for quick checks of nutrient reservoirs, drain water or irrigation water. The meter gives a digital value immediately and is easy to calibrate.
• pH and EC measuring and control system (pH and EC probe): a fixed system is permanently installed in the nutrient reservoir or the pipes. The pH probe and EC probe measure continuously. More advanced systems can automatically correct pH or dose nutrients.

In both systems, the pH probe and EC probe are the sensitive and most critical components. High-quality electrodes, correctly calibrated and maintained, determine the accuracy and reliability of your measurements.

Meytec pH probes, EC probes and meters for agriculture and hydroponics

Meytec supplies high-quality solutions for both types of measuring system: universally compatible pH probes, EC probes, portable pH meters and EC meters, and all the calibration and maintenance solutions you need.

pH and EC buffer solutions

A pH probe and EC probe are precision sensors that must be calibrated regularly. Use only calibration solutions of known values for this. Meytec supplies:

• pH buffer solutions: pH 4, pH 7 and pH 10, available in 20 ml, 60 ml and 250 ml.
• EC calibration solutions: 1413 µS/cm (1.413 mS/cm) for hydroponics and the low range, and 12880 µS/cm (12.88 mS/cm) for the high range. The manual of your meter decides.

Calibrate at least weekly, or more often with intensive use or when deviating values are suspected.

With fixed systems that run continuously, it is advisable to place the pH probe temporarily in storage solution during short intervals.

With good maintenance and the right Meytec solutions, your pH and EC probes last longer and your measuring system stays reliable.

Replacing pH probe and EC probe in agriculture and hydroponics