EC and pH targets are crop decisions, but achieving them consistently is an engineering and operating task. Water chemistry, injector capacity, mixing, sensor location, calibration and drainage feedback must work as one system.
Start with a complete water analysis
Measure source EC and pH together with bicarbonate, calcium, magnesium, sodium, chloride and relevant trace elements. pH alone does not describe acid demand; alkalinity controls how much acid is needed to reach a stable irrigation solution.
- Source-water laboratory analysis
- Crop stage and target solution
- Peak zone flow and injection ratio
- Drain EC, pH and volume monitoring
Size dosing and mixing for peak flow
Stock concentration, number of channels and pump output must cover the largest operating irrigation zone without running continuously at the pump limit. Keep incompatible concentrates separate, provide non-return protection and confirm adequate mixing before the measurement point.
Calibrate, verify and use crop feedback
Calibrate EC and pH probes with fresh standards on a documented schedule and compare controller readings with a trusted handheld meter. Adjust irrigation and nutrition from feed and drain trends, substrate moisture, climate and crop stage—not from one isolated reading.
Turn this guide into a material list
Send the site, crop and dimensions to GIA or the project desk for a coordinated recommendation.