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pH Meter, Dr.meter Upgraded 0.01 Resolution High Accuracy PH Tester with Backlit Two-Color LCD Display and ATC, 0-14pH Measurement Range with Data Hold Function Digital pH Tester Pen-PH838?
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I am NOT an expert at this part, but I've been working on this too.
My understanding is that you check the pH by drawing off a few ounces of wort right after finishing mashing in, and allow it to cool to around room temperature; pH meters can adjust to temperature to a certain extent but they break if the water's too hot (ask how I know....). I put the wort in a cake pan, it cools much more quickly than in glass or ceramic. I use this pH meter I got from Amazon. There are cheaper ones, but the $15 ones took forever to equilibrate.
I've heard you can just use pH paper and it's pretty cheap on Amazon - but you don't get the precision you get with a meter; you can tell the difference between pH 4 and 5 but not between 4.7 and 5.2. I'm not happy with dipping chemical-soaked paper sourced in China into something I'm going to consume, either.
I use this one in a lot of other people do too it's really good and it's like 30 bucks check it out at least!
pH Meter, Dr.meter Upgraded 0.01 Resolution High Accuracy pH Tester with Backlit Two-Color LCD Display and ATC, 0-14pH Measurement Range with Data Hold Function Digital pH Tester Pen-PH838 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B082DZBJFB/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_JSBN6544ZYCG5QM7ZNVJ?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Dr. Meter has been great. Had it for a while I recaliberate it once a run and when I do that it's always been still calibrated if you know what I'm trying to say. In my opinion you definitely need a decent one I used a little kit with drops before and it just wasn't accurate as I was wanting to be when I switched to a decent meter everything was a lot better as far as growing. If you don't have a lot of money to spend this one's like 30 bucks and it's awesome.
pH Meter, Dr.meter Upgraded 0.01 Resolution High Accuracy pH Tester with Backlit Two-Color LCD Display and ATC, 0-14pH Measurement Range with Data Hold Function Digital pH Tester Pen-PH838 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B082DZBJFB/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_Z1DWTYK6J1BZR8PY3TF0?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Yes. In my 3-year experience all nutrients have tried definitely lower your pH. Trying to figure out how much without a meter is a problem because it changes from Brandon brand and it drops it more when you start kicking in heavier feedings also. I had a couple of crappy ones also and I'll try the drops and then holding a little vial up to that chart it helped but when I actually got a decent meter it was a game changer. Check this one out it's not very expensive at all a lot of people use it and it's really reliable. $29.99 and you can do 5% off.
pH Meter, Dr.meter Upgraded 0.01 Resolution High Accuracy pH Tester with Backlit Two-Color LCD Display and ATC, 0-14pH Measurement Range with Data Hold Function Digital pH Tester Pen-PH838 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B082DZBJFB/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_7W5Y0XZXZQDR35B8HJK9?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
pH Meter, Dr.meter Upgraded 0.01 Resolution High Accuracy pH Tester with Backlit Two-Color LCD Display and ATC, 0-14pH Measurement Range with Data Hold Function Digital pH Tester Pen-PH838 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B082DZBJFB/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_CNKG3RPBNAMR9K9V62ZW?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I've had this one for a couple of years it's easy to calibrate I do it once per row and really don't even have to do that because it's still accurate each time I calibrate it but it's just to make sure. Anyway it's 29.99. really really nice for the price.
pH Meter, Dr.meter Upgraded 0.01 Resolution High Accuracy pH Tester with Backlit Two-Color LCD Display and ATC, 0-14pH Measurement Range with Data Hold Function Digital pH Tester Pen-PH838 - I have been using this for two grows and it's been super accurate for me so far. Typically test against litmus strips and calibrate at the start of each grow.
pH Meter, Dr.meter Upgraded 0.01 Resolution High Accuracy pH Tester with Backlit Two-Color LCD Display and ATC, 0-14pH Measurement Range with Data Hold Function Digital pH Tester Pen-PH838 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B082DZBJFB/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_N1MBAAEH5WKJBA5E7B55?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Been going perfect for over a year.
Limited-time deal: pH Meter, Dr.meter Upgraded 0.01 Resolution High Accuracy pH Tester with Backlit Two-Color LCD Display and ATC, 0-14pH Measurement Range with Data Hold Function Digital pH Tester Pen-PH838 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B082DZBJFB/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_dl_5ADCA2MHS6MQPZYRE8P0
I use and like this one. It's really easy to calibrate every run if you want to to make sure it's right on. Not very expensive. I try to couple other ones before this and they were crap.
I got this one. Just be careful not to dunk it too far into the water. Use the included PH packets to calibrate it and you are good to go
pH Meter, Dr.meter Upgraded 0.01 Resolution High Accuracy pH Tester with Backlit Two-Color LCD Display and ATC, 0-14pH Measurement Range with Data Hold Function Digital pH Tester Pen-PH838 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B082DZBJFB/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_7M2XBNWAS3VV83CB0MXR?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I wouldn’t worry about getting 100% of the O2 out. 98-99 is close enough. The vacuum fermentation I’ve done was a mash (no water) and when I sealed the bag I draped it over the edge of my counter to let gravity help with keeping any liquid from being sucked out. As a Lo-Fi_Pioneer said, just hit seal button before the liquid gets close to the top of the bag. On another note, I’ve had a few ph meters and really like the one I’m using now. You can find it on Amazon . Good luck.
You will need a ph meter. Here is a cheap one on Amazon: https://smile.amazon.com/Dr-meter-Upgraded-Resolution-Two-Color-Measurement/dp/B082DZBJFB/ref=sr\_1\_3?crid=O6OSDK3DXR1K&dchild=1&keywords=ph+meter&qid=1631295752&sprefix=ph+meter%2Caps%2C187&sr=8-3
They have something called the trio. I think its big bloom, grow big, and tiger bloom. You absolutely want the two that say bloom, because thats the phase youre in.
However, you are showing signs of a nitrogen deficiency as well, so you could either use the grow big as well (but only once or twice because the plants dont need much nitrogen in the flowering phase) or you could fill the rest of your pot up with a soil amendment, a rich soil or compost to water through.
The yellowing could also be from a ph that is too high, as that also causes yellowing from the bottom up. The best thing to do is get a ph tester and lowering gently with lemon juice until.its in the 6.5-6.0 range. Here is a tester to consider.
I have been told a few times now that this is a really good pen to use. 6.5 is alright, but I tend to aim for 6.0 in late flowering. Good luck, either way, the plant looks beautiful, and I have even come up with 30% thc bud while dealing with yellowing caused by an incorrect ph.
You're probably gonna need something better than the 10 dollar one, but you don't have to get lab-grade equipment.
I've been using this tester for a long time and I find it to be accurate enough for DWC. Just make sure you calibrate it (this one comes with calibration solution) and spot check it. I use paper pH strips and pH drops to check it once in a while.
Dr. Meter makes a nice meter that I can't complain about(other than the temp being permanently in Celsius). Really easy to calibrate and uses double aa batteries that I have yet to change after over a year.
I unfortunately don't know anyone, the hobby isn't exactly legal where I live. I have this Dr Meter pen, I know it's cheaper but it definitely seemed like a good one. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B082DZBJFB/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fabc_wNK6FbGA1CCTG?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1 I keep my PH between 6.1 and 6.3 because I thought I remembered that being an optimal range for nutrient absorption. I'll be keeping it closer to 6.5 now, thank you.
The only additional supplement to the 3 part base line that I recommend is the ArmorSi one. It makes a noticeable difference in strength and stress resistance. But gh flora series is the gold standard for hydro nutes forever and works great for plants in soilless mixes too.
If you want a simpler 1 part dry mix, Maxigrow also from gh is a complete 1 part fertilizer and can be used at about 1/2 tsp gallon for similar results but dry mixes are a pain in the ass to get to fully dissolve. Maxibloom is the flowering half of that pair & works great for peppers, tomatoes & most flowering plants.
I prefer the 3 part liquid though and it can be mixed in different ratios to support plants from seedling through fruiting.
You probably also should grab a pH meter and some pH up & pH down too. This is a good one that you can calibrate for under $30: https://www.amazon.com/Dr-meter-Upgraded-Resolution-Two-Color-Measurement-dp-B082DZBJFB/dp/B082DZBJFB
Also I have a PDF copy of How-to Hydroponics 4th edition that is an excellent primer on nutes and pretty much everything else about growing indoors. Lighting is a bit outdated cause doesn't have LEDs but everything else is relevant and it has a bunch of DIY plans in the back too. If you want a copy lmk i'll pm it to you
There is this one that MoreBeer sells. This same meter is sold under a few different names. I picked up the Dr Meter PH-100 from Amazon about 2 years ago. Overall I would say I have been happy with the meter, but it is my only reference point.
The readings have seemed a bit off lately, so I just replaced the probe (only $15 from MoreBeer). My understanding is that the probes on pH meters need to be replaced about every year or two depending on use, storage and need for accuracy.
The exact model that I purchased does not seem to be available these days and there is an upgraded version. I am not sure what probe that takes or if you can get a replacement.
>waterproof Dr. Meter brand
I guess this? https://www.amazon.com/Dr-meter-Upgraded-Resolution-Two-Color-Measurement/dp/B082DZBJFB
I haven't had bad luck with my cheapo meter, but thanks for the suggestion.
Miracle grow is great for tomatoes but terrible for cannabis. I would visit Homegrown VA or Happy trees
They have the soil and cloth pots you need to get started.
You want to measure everything going into your plant with the PH meter. Mix up your nutrients and then PH the whole batch. Then adjust with some ph up or down solution and restest. the water in Henrico county is coming out of the tap at high 7 or 8, you want to feed your plant at 6.3 - 6.8 at the very high end.
This is a good basic meter https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B082DZBJFB/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1 you MUST calibrate it with the solutions to make it measure correctly.
If you get your PH wrong and or add water or nutrient that is too acidic you can burn your plants or create PH lockout and the plant can't absorb its nutrients. it will be "locked out" of being able to take them up.
READ a website like Grow weed easy .com and stick to the plan. The two stores I have linked have a ton of helpful knowledge and products.
Tip: Do a lot of research on what light(s) you're going to purchase. I made the mistake (sort of) of purchasing a Spider Farmer SF1000 at first, then changed my mind about halfway through my first grow and bought a Viparspectra XS1500 for the higher output. In my case, it worked out in the end because I bought a second, smaller tent and now use both lights. Don't get me wrong, the SF1000 is a good light. I just wanted more wattage for my tent/plant size.
Actually, I suppose this applies to all the equipment you purchase. It's a bit annoying to buy something, then having to buy another (more expensive) something that does the same thing, but better. I initially purchased an inexpensive digital pH tester, only to eventually find out that it wasn't accurate (when I had pH issues that the meter was telling me was fine). At least go for something like this: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B082DZBJFB/ and be sure to follow the calibration procedure to the letter. Tip: Buy a gallon of distilled water and fill a spray bottle with it. Every time you use your pH tester, wash the bulb (unless you buy a different type of pH tester, such as the ones where you add a few drops of a solution to a vial).
There's a bit of a learning curve all the way around. Even when it comes to purchasing seeds. Some sites are not recommended because of inferior genetics, or the bad habit of sending the incorrect seeds. Some sites charge exorbitant prices for the same seeds you can get elsewhere for half the cost. Some have annoying payment policies due to legalities.
And as always, you get the warning not to make the most common mistake new growers make, which is overwatering their seedlings. Good soil drainage (think adding lots of perlite), container drainage, and allow to dry out between waterings. It's much easier to add water to a plant that's dehydrated than it is to try to save a plant that's been overwatered and has root rot. Good luck!
Yesss, a ph that is too high will keep the plant from taking in the proper nutrients. Here's a good one.
I have heard wonderful things about this.
Test strips always felt unreliable to me.
Here is a highly recommended ph tester that will save money in the long run and give you much more accurate results.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B082DZBJFB?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share this one is waterproof and nice. Dr. Meter $35. I personally don't like combo pH-EDS meters. Could be because I didn't have a good one but I like separate units.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B082DZBJFB?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share this one is waterproof and nice. Dr. Meter $35. I personally don't like combo pH-EDS meters. Could be because I didn't have a good one but I like separate units.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B082DZBJFB?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share this one is waterproof and nice. Dr. Meter $35. I personally don't like combo pH-EDS meters. Could be because I didn't have a good one but I like separate units.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B082DZBJFB?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share this one is waterproof and nice. Dr. Meter $35. I personally don't like combo pH-EDS meters. Could be because I didn't have a good one but I like separate units.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B082DZBJFB?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share this one is waterproof and nice. Dr. Meter $35. I personally don't like combo pH-EDS meters. Could be because I didn't have a good one but I like separate units.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B082DZBJFB?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share this one is waterproof and nice. Dr. Meter $35. I personally don't like combo pH-EDS meters. Could be because I didn't have a good one but I like separate units.
I would recommend this one over that entirely. The one you linked IMO is a waste of time and effort. With this it will stay calibrated for a while. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B082DZBJFB it’s the best option under 50 bucks IMO.
I just got this one, didn’t feel like going too crazy: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B082DZBJFB/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_api_glt_fabc_dl_TMVAKB54BRAQA02R89CZ
Hope you enjoy the recipe!
I just got this one, didn’t feel like going to crazy: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B082DZBJFB/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_api_glt_fabc_dl_TMVAKB54BRAQA02R89CZ
Hope you enjoy the recipe!
Some decent info on pH meters: http://www.milkthefunk.com/wiki/PH_Meter
Though for me $100 is not really "budget". This is not the exact one I have (it looks to be an newer model) but I have been happy enough with the Dr. Meter meter: https://www.amazon.com/Dr-meter-Upgraded-Resolution-Two-Color-Measurement/dp/B082DZBJFB
I do not have a stir plate, but I have been tempted by some DIY ones that are based off a computer fan. Like this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DycVssVjGWU
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B082DZBJFB/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fabc_vWpYFbMVYDDEZ
This is one I bought. It's easy and affordable. If you spend more money(and properly maintain it) you can have a meter for years.
Yeah, pH is arguably the most critical thing to keep in check because it directly affects nutrient availability. Here is a chart from this really good book "How-to Hydroponics" showing nutrient availability vs pH: https://i.imgur.com/G5wax7g.png
Also I'll pm you a link to a pdf copy of the book, it's really useful even if you aren't getting into actual hydroponics. It covers nutes, lighting, pH, etc. Also has a bunch of cheap DIY plans at the back and if you do decide to try something like a lettuce DWC you can use the same flora series nutes.
So as far as pH meters go don't bother with the liquid test kits, they are too slow and annoying. It's worth it to spend $20-30 to get a reliable one you can calibrate. This is a good one in that price range: https://www.amazon.com/Dr-meter-Upgraded-Resolution-Two-Color-Measurement/dp/B082DZBJFB
You will most likely use more pH down than pH up. I buy pH down by the gallon and pH up by the pint or quart.
When adjusting pH add a small amount of acid or base at a time & stir thoroughly then test and see how much it moved. Make a note of how many drops or ml you used for what mixture of nutes. Next time you can just repeat what you did and check pH at the end & make minor adjustment if needed. You'll want to grab some little plastic droppers in 1 ml and a bit larger size.
For grow lights I'm mostly using these 50W COB ones from FECiDA you can get on amazon. I have some of the high par pink grow light ones that are 2 for $50 which is a steal. They are ip67 waterproof, fanless, come with a long removable cord w/ a switch + wire and a carabiner to hang it.
I also have a bunch of 6000k daylight white "flood lights" from FECiDA and while they're not labeled as grow lights they are identical spec wise and housing wise. The only difference is they come bare wire since they are meant to be mounted and wired in. But since they are only $26 for 2 it's worth the effort to grab some 3-prong plugs at home depot or scavenge one off of an old device.
Disregard all the marketing stuff about 600W. That's it's "equivalent rating" but they are actual 50W power draw at the wall and bright as hell.
Pink high par grow light 2 pack: https://www.amazon.com/FECiDA-Waterproof-Equivalent-Spectrum-Greenhouse/dp/B07TL9VFD4
Daylight white 6000k 2 pack: https://www.amazon.com/Waterproof-Daylight-Equivalent-Brightest-Security/dp/B07TSGYJ89/
If you want to be able to raise & lower the lights you'll want something like this. This link is a pack of 2: https://www.amazon.com/VIVOSUN-engranajes-reforzado-capacidad-exclusivamente/dp/B077BKWZTH
Feel free to ping me with any other questions, I love talking about this stuff and am happy to teach others.
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