Maintaining the correct pH level in your nutrient solution or growing medium is essential for healthy plant growth. Whether you’re growing hydroponically or in soil, a pH imbalance can lead to nutrient lockout, stunted development, and poor yields.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of pH testing and adjustment, so you can keep your grow thriving.

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Why pH Matters in Hydroponics and Soil

pH (potential of hydrogen) measures how acidic or alkaline a solution is on a scale of 0 to 14. A pH of 7 is neutral, below 7 is acidic, and above 7 is alkaline.

Ideal pH ranges for plants:

• Hydroponics: 5.5 to 6.5
• Soil: 6.0 to 7.0

Maintaining the correct pH ensures your plants can absorb essential nutrients like nitrogen, potassium, calcium, and magnesium. Even with the best nutrients, the wrong pH can block absorption.

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What You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather the following tools:

• ✅ Digital pH Meter or pH Test Kit
• ✅ pH Up and pH Down Solutions
• ✅ pH Calibration Solutions (4.0 & 7.0)
• ✅ A clean container or jug for water samples

You can find all of these in our pH Control & Testing Collection.

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How to Test pH – Step-by-Step

1. Collect Your Sample

Use a clean container to collect your nutrient solution, feed water, or runoff from your soil or coco coir.

2. Calibrate Your pH Meter

If you’re using a digital pH meter, calibrate it using pH 4.0 and 7.0 buffer solutions. This ensures your readings are accurate.

3. Take the pH Reading

• Digital Meter: Insert the probe into your sample and wait for a stable reading.
• Liquid Kit: Add indicator drops and compare the colour to the chart.
• Test Strips: Dip into the solution and match the colour to the guide.

4. Record Your Reading

Note the reading to track changes over time, especially useful in hydroponic systems where pH can fluctuate daily.

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How to Adjust pH Levels

🔽 If pH is Too High (Alkaline):

Add pH Down solution. Start with small doses, stir well, and test again.

🔼 If pH is Too Low (Acidic):

Add pH Up. Again, go slowly and re-test to avoid overcorrection.

♻️ Repeat if Necessary:

Adjust gradually. Sudden shifts in pH can stress your plants.

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Pro Tips for Consistent pH Control

• 🔁 Check pH daily in hydroponic systems
• 💧 Always calibrate your digital meter before use
• 📓 Keep a pH log to spot trends and prevent problems
• 🧼 Clean your pH meter regularly and store it in storage solution
• 💡 Flush your medium if pH issues persist—salt buildup may be the cause

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Popular pH Products from The Horticulture Company

✔️ Bluelab pH Pen – Waterproof and Reliable
✔️ Essentials pH Up & Down
✔️ Growth Technology pH Buffer 4 & 7

👉 Browse our full pH Testing & Control Range

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Final Thoughts

Understanding and controlling pH is a fundamental part of growing success—whether you’re cultivating leafy greens in a DWC system or tomatoes in soil. With the right tools and a little know-how, you’ll prevent nutrient deficiencies, promote root health, and maximise your yield.

Need help choosing the right pH products for your setup? Contact our team or visit our store today.