Hello GC.. I'm in the final stages of getting my setup together but I still need to get a ph, ec, tds meter(s) but I'm not 100% clear on if it is nessessary to test ec and tds. What tests for what? Are both used to test the ppm of the nutes? Another quick question. When using the lucas formula when do I start feeding my plants?& Do you mix the solution to full strength from the start of feedings until flush before harvest? Noob questions, I know, but I am very close to starting my first grow and I want to be prepared. Any help would be very much appreciated. One more thing.. If anyone has a suggestion on a ph, ec, tds meter(s) that is quality with a hint of inexpensive. Drop me a link. Thanks in advance.
I bought mine for $30 on amazon.com and tho its not the greatest quality, its pretty accurate. i used a bud's meter (a nice one, couple hundo for his) until i got mine and had both for a couple weeks and they consistently read the same results. for the nutes dont give any for at least the first 10 - 14 days. then break em in gradually increasing from 1/4 strength to full strength.... what you bout to grow man? and good luck
Thx for the response. The one you found on amazon is a ph meter? or a ph/ec/tds meter? From doing a little research I think I understand more about ec/tds. Now correct me if im wrong. Ec tests your solution ppm and Tds tests for pureity, ie: tds tests the amount of toxins in the solution ( I assume this would give you a heads up on when to do a res change out.) Am I at least on the right path. lol. I was thinking of just getting a ph meter for now and then getting a seperate ec/tds meter when I'm close to starting the feeding. Now I just want to make sure with your suggestion of starting at 1/4 strength and moving up slowly to full strength that you caught the part about using the lucas formula. I just cant find any real info explaining how to use the lucas formula from start to harvest. Now don't get me wrong, I understand the math for addback, I just don't know what ppm to start at. As for what I'm growing.. Just put in my order today to Attitude. G13 Labs White Widow Feminized Feminized Seeds Per Pack: 05 Seeds Pick & Mix Seeds / Greenhouse Seeds The Church Feminized Pick & Mix Seeds per pack: 01 Seed UFO#2 DNA Genetics Sharksbreath Feminized FREE: 01 Seed UFO # 1 DNA Genetics LA Woman Feminized FREE: 01 Seed I think to start I'm going to use Sharksbreath, LA Woman, The Church and 1 of the Widow seeds. I will save the other 4 for my second grow which is when I will start cloning. Im just gonna let my first grow ride out from start to finish in the same tent.