First time grower here so please be gentle on me. I’m using a DWC Hydro system paired with a timed top feed spray. Clay pellets and rock wool medium. I am seeing my EC, PPM and pH slowly rise between the weekly water changes. I adjust the pH daily to get it down to the 5.9 - 6.3 range. Over the course of the week, EC increases by @.4 and PPM increases by @200 from the initial setting. Below are my details to the list of specifics.
PH of Water, Solution, runoff (if Applicable) - Initially 5.9
PPM/TDS or EC of nutrient solution if applicable - initially 400 PPM and 0.8 EC ( week 2 of seedling stage)
Indoor or Outdoor - Indoor
Light system - LED
Temps; Day, Night - Day = 78 Night = 65
Humidity; Day, Night - Day = 28 Night = 32 (I know this is low)
Ventilation system; Yes, No, Size - Two 6” fans
AC, Humidifier, De-humidifier, - No
Co2; Yes, No - No
I am using ILGM nutes plus Cal-Mag and dosing according to Bergmans Hydro Nutrient schedule @ 1/2 strength. Plant appears healthy with good root growth (white roots). Below is a pic of the plant.
I’d think as the plant is using nutes and waterborne chemicals that the EC and PPM would go down but the opposite is happening. Any help is appreciated.
Thanks @Toddr111 . My main concern is why the pH continues to rise. I suspect the EC and PPM elevations are most likely a result of evaporations in the reservoir. I’m going to start using distilled water during my mid-week topping off to see if that helps.
Hey @Tomb4378 are you letting your nutrients solution sit with Air stones for 60 minutes before adding to your plants? This will give your nutrient solution pH settle then check pH before adding.
Your ppm going up is telling you that the roots aren’t taking in nutrients. They are just using more water. Just add water if your ppm is goes up between feedings. This will happen as you go forward with hydroponics.
Every two to three weeks I drain my buckets and restart with a fresh fill of water and nutrients.
Also take a look at some beneficial microbes to your schedule. They will help your plants by preventing root rot and fungus infestation. Also they will help break down excess salts so your roots can take up for feeding.
I’ll look into the Hydroguard. I don’t let the nute solution sit prior to adding it to the reservoir but I do have 2 airstones in the reservoir. I also change out 100% of the water/nute solution each week.
Faithfully adjusting pH to keep it in the 5.7 to 6.3 range seem to be keeping the plant happy. Being retired I am able to monitor this multiple times per day. Here is how my WWA looks today - I see continuous growth. Anybody see any issues from your perspective?
