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3 tips for measuring and adjusting pH

Fertilization advice is often precisely calculated to the millimol. This requires a very precise methodology in the application of fertilizers. The crop pH here is of crucial importance because a pH that is too high or too low results in a reduced absorption of certain nutrients. For that reason we’ll list a few important items concerning pH.
Ph meters
Jaap Lubbersen
Product specialist Crop Care | November 30, 2020 | 2 min. reading time

Choice of chelate for measuring and adjusting ph

Choosing the appropriate type of chelate plays an important role in the soil’s or substrate’s pH level: a DTPA chelate has already lost part of its effect at a pH of 6.5, while this only happens to a EDDHA-chelate at a pH of 8 or higher. Take this into account when choosing a chelate.

Preparation of fertilizer containers 

The wrong pH level in the fertilizer container can cause flocculation and sediment of your fertilizers and/or trace elements. This can clog your fertilizer container. There are extensive charts available that show the proper pH level for each fertilizer or chelate. The following rule of thumb is often sufficient: e pH level between 3.5 and 5 is always good, regardless of which iron or fertilizer is used.

Measuring and adjusting pH

Always measure pH levels after adding fertilizers to the fertilizer container. Ensure you have a properly functioning pH meter and calibrate it regularly. Practice shows that some (expensive) meters are replaced after a couple of years of faithful service because they don’t work well any longer. Replacing the measuring probe and calibration with a new set of calibration bottles is however often enough for the pH meter to work properly again.

Adjusting pH levels in the fertilizer container can be difficult and requires precise work. Nitric acid can lower pH levels, caustic potash raises the pH. Ensure that you are using the appropriate safety measures when using these materials (safety goggles and gloves)
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Can't find your answer? Fill out the contact form and our specialist Jaap Lubbersen will get back to you. On weekdays, even within 24 hours.

3 tips for measuring and adjusting pH

Fertilization advice is often precisely calculated to the millimol. This requires a very precise methodology in the application of fertilizers. The crop pH here is of crucial importance because a pH that is too high or too low results in a reduced absorption of certain nutrients. For that reason we’ll list a few important items concerning pH.
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Jaap Lubbersen, product specialist fertilisers
Jaap Lubbersen
Product specialist Fertilizers | November 30, 2020 | 2 min. reading time
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Ph meters

Choice of chelate for measuring and adjusting ph

Choosing the appropriate type of chelate plays an important role in the soil’s or substrate’s pH level: a DTPA chelate has already lost part of its effect at a pH of 6.5, while this only happens to a EDDHA-chelate at a pH of 8 or higher. Take this into account when choosing a chelate.

Preparation of fertilizer containers 

The wrong pH level in the fertilizer container can cause flocculation and sediment of your fertilizers and/or trace elements. This can clog your fertilizer container. There are extensive charts available that show the proper pH level for each fertilizer or chelate. The following rule of thumb is often sufficient: e pH level between 3.5 and 5 is always good, regardless of which iron or fertilizer is used.

Measuring and adjusting pH

Always measure pH levels after adding fertilizers to the fertilizer container. Ensure you have a properly functioning pH meter and calibrate it regularly. Practice shows that some (expensive) meters are replaced after a couple of years of faithful service because they don’t work well any longer. Replacing the measuring probe and calibration with a new set of calibration bottles is however often enough for the pH meter to work properly again.

Adjusting pH levels in the fertilizer container can be difficult and requires precise work. Nitric acid can lower pH levels, caustic potash raises the pH. Ensure that you are using the appropriate safety measures when using these materials (safety goggles and gloves)
Contact form
Can't find your answer? Fill out the contact form and our specialist Jaap Lubbersen will get back to you. On weekdays, even within 24 hours.
Jaap lubbersen product specialist fertilizers
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