WATER IS LIFE – WATER AND PH VALUES FOR SUCCESSFUL CANNABIS CULTIVATION
How successful the cannabis harvest is depends on how the plant is cared for and adjusted to various factors. Talking is certainly part of the attention to detail, but nature also does its part and demands a certain quality of air, water, light and soil. Any deviation can cause plants to grow poorly and become more susceptible to disease or attack by insects or fungi. And that is precisely why it is time to give the pH value of cannabis the attention it deserves. After all, it is one of the decisive factors when it comes to nourishing cannabis plants and ensuring that they absorb everything that is fed to them via their roots.
WHAT IS THE PH VALUE?
pH is used to measure the acidity and alkalinity of a liquid or dissolved solid. pH values can range from 0.0 to 14.0; substances with a pH below 7 are considered acidic, while those with a pH above 7 are considered alkaline. If the solution is exactly 7.0, it is pH neutral. A well-known example of an acidic substance is hydrochloric acid, which has a pH value of 0.0, while caustic soda (washing soda) with a pH value of 14.0 is strongly alkaline. Water is the best example of neutral substances as it is usually around 7.0 pH.
MEANING pH VALUE OF CANNABIS
The pH value is indisputably an important factor in ensuring that the plants absorb everything that is supplied to them via the roots. If the roots receive substances with an incorrect pH value, they may not be able to do so in the worst case. Over time, deficiencies or oversupply can occur as certain minerals accumulate in the substrate and create a toxic environment for the roots.
WHAT ph VALUE SHOULD CANNABIS PLANTS HAVE?
In order for cannabis plants to grow optimally, it should be noted that the pH values are not always exactly the same. Depending on the cultivated variety, stage of development (germination, growth, pre-flowering, flowering), growth medium and whether minerals are added, the pH value of the water should be adjusted.
If this is not possible, the plant will grow, but possibly not as desired and with limitations in terms of quality.
The ideal pH values for growing cannabis in hydroponic and aeroponic systems and other inert substrates are
Seedlings / Seedlings: 5.8 – 5.9 pH
Pre-flowering: 6.0 – 6.2 pH
Full flowering: 6.0 – 6.3 pH
The ideal pH values for growing cannabis in peat mixtures or directly in the soil are
Seedlings / seedlings: 5.5 – 6.0 pH
Pre-flowering: 6.0 – 6.2 pH
Full flowering: 6.2 – 6.5 pH
HOW TO ADJUST THE pH VALUE FOR CANNABIS?
Adjusting the pH of water for cannabis plants is, as mentioned, an important step to ensure that they can optimally absorb all the nutrients they need. To adjust the pH value of the water, the current pH value of the water must first be measured. There are pH meters for this purpose. This is immersed in the water and “voila” displays the value.
Depending on whether the measured pH value is too high or too low, it must be adjusted.
Increase the pH (pH up): If the pH value is too low, it must be increased to keep it in the optimum range for cannabis plants. To do this, use a commercially available pH-up product that is slowly added to the water. Then measure the value again.
Lower the pH (pH down): If the pH value is too high, use a commercially available pH down product mixed into the water.
WATERING CANNABIS WITH WATER ONLY
When watering with water only, let the water stand for a few minutes and then measure the pH value with the pH meter. If necessary, a pH up or down product is added. If this is not necessary, add the water gently to the plant.
WATERING WITH NUTRIENTS
This process varies depending on the fertilisers used. Some brands recommend adjusting the pH before adding the products, while others recommend adjusting the pH after adding. If the manufacturer has not left specific instructions, we recommend simply dissolving the nutrients one by one and mixing thoroughly. Then allow the water to stand for a few minutes so that the pH value can equalise and no fluctuations occur.
HYDROPONIC IRRIGATION
In automatic irrigation systems, a large tank is usually used together with an automatic pipe system, which normally contains water and nutrients sufficient to supply the cannabis plants for about one to two weeks. To adjust the pH and keep it within the recommended pH range, we recommend the use of pH and temperature monitoring devices. This allows the pH value to be adjusted quickly and easily if necessary.
Maintaining the correct pH is crucial to the successful cultivation of cannabis plants. By regularly monitoring the pH levels of the water and adjusting as necessary, the plant is provided with everything it needs for healthy growth.
DROPPING IT ON THE HOT STONE WITH CARE.
