pH Up from Grow Technology is an alkaline liquid that raises pH level in nutrient tanks. In most situations growers will only really need to us pH down as tap water and nutrients sit at around pH 7-9. However, sometimes you may need to raise the level and that’s where pH Up comes in. It is 25% potassium hydroxide and therefore caustic, meaning the user should take extreme care with it. It is stronger than other pH Up products on the market, so a little goes a long way.
Growth Technology recommend mixing pH Up with some water before applying to your tank. Not only does this make it easier to control the pH but it also protects and micro organisms in the tank. Many nutrients include these beneficial bacteria and fungus and contact with a strong alkali concentrate can destroy them.
How will pH Up and adjusting levels affect my plants?
Ph level is important if you want to get the most out of your grow. This is particularly true if you are using a hydroponic system. Most plants perform best when the pH level is about 5.8 to 6.2. At this acidity there is the highest level of absorption of elements across the board. Some elements absorb slightly better in more acidic condition and some in more alkali conditions. 5.8 to 6.2 is kind of a middle ground that offers the best trade off and it is here most growers aim for. See below for a diagram of how elements are taken up at which pH levels. pH Up from Growth Technology is a simple liquid that will raise the pH level of your nutrient solution.
At Straight Up hydroponics, we have a couple of option for pH control. These include Dutch Pro pH+, pH- Grow and Bloom and Biobizz pH+ and pH-. We also keep the Essentials pH meter and Bluelab pH pen in stock to measure acidity levels. You could also opt for a nutrient such as Sensi Bloom which has pH Perfect technology. This automatically adjusts the pH of the liquid solution so you don’t have to. Please note that for this to work, all additives and base nutrients must incorporate pH Perfect technology. To see our range of nutrients, please click this link.
