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Electrical Conductivity & pH

Table 1: Optimum range of electrical conductivity (EC) and pH values for hydroponic crops.
CropsEC (mS/cm)pH
Asparagus1.4 to 1.86.0 to 6.8
African Violet1.2 to 1.56.0 to 7.0
Basil1.0 to 1.65.5 to 6.0
Bean2.0 to 4.06
Banana1.8 to 2.25.5 to 6.5
Broccoli2.8 to 3.56.0 to 6.8
Cabbage2.5 to 3.06.5 to 7.0
Celery1.8 to 2.46.5
Carnation2.0 to 3.56
Courgettes1.8 to 2.46
Cucumber1.7 to 2.05.0 to 5.5
Eggplant2.5 to 3.56
Ficus1.6 to 2.45.5 to 6.0
Leek1.4 to 1.86.5 to 7.0
Lettuce1.2 to 1.86.0 to 7.0
Marrow1.8 to 2.46
Okra2.0 to 2.46.5
Pak Choi1.5 to 2.07
Peppers0.8 to 1.85.5 to 6.0
Parsley1.8 to 2.26.0 to 6.5
Rhubarb1.6 to 2.05.5 to 6.0
Rose1.5 to 2.55.5 to 6.0
Spinach1.8 to 2.36.0 to 7.0
Strawberry1.8 to 2.26
Sage1.0 to 1.65.5 to 6.5
Tomato2.0 to 4.06.0 to 6.5
Electrical Conductivity & pH Guide

Hydroponic Recipes

Table 2: Target nitrogen feed rates (in ppm N) for several hydroponic crops.
TypePropagation (ppm N)Production (ppm N)
Buttercrunch/Boston Bibb125150
Romaine, Red and Green leaf125150
Basil125175
Culinary Herbs125150
Cole Crops125175
Garlic and Scallions125150
Tomatoes125200
Peppers125150
Cucumber125175
Heavy Feeders (cabbage, kale, spinach, Swiss chard, mustard greens, mizuna, escarole)125175–200
Light Feeder Lettuce (arugula, watercress, spring mix)125125–150
A Recipe for Hydroponic Success