Low or high pH levels affect the availability of the minerals required by the plant. The correct pH range for hydroponics is between 5.5 and 6.5, for soil it is not so critical, but generally around 6.3; outside of these figures nutrient problems will quickly occur as minerals become insoluble. The nutrient strength needs to be matched to the current stage of plant development. Too high a concentration can quickly burn a plant, whilst too low produces pale, weak growth. Measuring is knowing. Good results are attainable by anyone prepared to stick to this rule. Whimsical guesswork rarely leads to success! The Nutriculture pH Test Kit allows quick and accurate monitoring of pH levels in your nutrient solution. For accurate acidity testing follow the procedure below. •Take a 2ml sample of solution from the tank in the test tube provided. •Add 2 drops of reagent. •Shake the test tube and compare the colour against the test strip to determine the acidity. •Discard the test solution and rinse out the test tube. •Adjust the pH of your nutrients and retest if neccessary.

It is essential when growing with a hydroponic solution to know what the strength of the solution is before feeding your plants and while they are growing. This is easy if you use the Bluelab Truncheon! To take a reading of your solution - simply place the probe head into the solution for 1-2 minutes to reach the same temperature of your nutrient. Remove from the solution and place back in to take the reading as indicated by the flashing lights. Rinse the probe after use in fresh water and clean once a week to ensure the Truncheon Nutrient Meter remains accurate. EC (0.2 - 3.6), CF (2 - 36) and ppm scales (TDS and 700 scale) Fully waterproof No calibration required Auto sense on and off No external switches or adjustable buttons Battery life minimum 1 year (or shelf life of battery