GrowShop editorial guide
What is the difference between pH and EC meters?
pH describes acidity or alkalinity; EC provides an indirect indication of conductivity and total dissolved ions. One does not replace the other.
What do pH and EC measure?
pH indicates acidity or alkalinity, which affects nutrient availability. EC measures the conductivity of ions in the solution; it does not identify individual nutrients.
Suitable values vary by plant, growth stage, source water, and system. There is no universal target value.
Meter selection checklist
- Replaceable or serviceable probe
- Suitable calibration solutions
- Clear explanation of temperature compensation
- Measurement range and resolution
- Storage and cleaning instructions
- Warranty and spare parts
Build a reliable measurement habit
Calibrate as directed, clean and store the probe correctly, and record readings with date and time. Measuring source water separately from the prepared nutrient solution makes changes easier to interpret.
Sources
Technical explanations on this page are independent summaries based on the institutional sources below.
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