The Bluelab pH Pen is an excellent pocket size meter for measuring pH levels in nutrient solutions. Bluelab are world famous for the quality of their products and this one is no different. It features a non replaceable double junction probe and a temperature gauge inside. The meter automatically compensates for the temperature in the pH reading. Calibration is easy with the Bluelab pH pen too and uses both pH buffer 4 and pH buffer 7. This 2 point calibration system makes the meter more accurate than a one part calibration.
The Bluelab pH Pen runs off of a AAA battery which are available everywhere! There is also one in the box when you buy it so you’re ready to go right away. In combination with the Bluelab Conductivity Pen, you’ll have the ultimate kit for keeping you water tank stable!
You can find more info on this and all their other products on the Bluelab Website (Opens a new window).
Do I really need a Bluelab pH Pen?
Measuring pH is a great way of making sure the plant can absorb all the elements in the nutrient mix. Each element has a different absorption rate at different pH levels. Many growers will keep their pH at about 6.0 as it offers the best all round nutrient uptake. That’s not to say it is the best for all elements, it’s more of a trade off, being the point at which the overall absorption is highest. The diagram below shows how each element absorbs at different levels.
As you can see, pH 6.0 is the point at which most elements get a decent uptake. In hydroponic systems, it is important to maintain this level of absorption. A deficiency can really damage a plants health and ruin crops.
Alternatives and add on products
At Straight Up Hydro, we have a few other pH meters and a range of products to keep them working correctly. Popular pH meters include the Essentials pH Meter and the Plant!t pH Meter. To calibrate, we stock pH Buffer 4 and Buffer 7, and Probe Refill and Storage Solution will keep the probe in the best condition when not in use. Cleaning products are a great way to achieve accurate reading and boost lifespan. We have three variations of the Bluelab Care kit – For pH, Conductivity and pH & Conductivity. All of these are on our website with the rest of the pH and EC products, here.
