What is EC?

EC

WHAT IS EC?

EC is an abbreviation for electrical conductivity. It is a measure of the strength of the salts in a solution.

EC can be expressed using milli-siemens or micro-siemens. 1 milli-siemen is equal to 1000 micro-siemens.

EC can also be expressed as other units such as CF or TDS / PPM. CF (Conductivity Factor) is essentially EC multiplied by 10.

TDS (Total Dissolved Salts) and PPM (Parts Per Million) are mainly used in the US.

WHY DO WE MEASURE THE EC OF NUTRIENT SOLUTIONS?

Measuring the EC of a nutrient solution gives us an indication of the strength the solution. It is important to control this strength to ensure that the root zone of the plant has optimal conditions so that it can uptake the nutrients it needs. 

Plants require a lower EC level during vegetative growth because it will be easier for the young plants to take up nutrients and water. If the EC of the solution is too high it is too salty and it becomes harder for the plant to take up enough to fulfil its basic needs. This is known as fertiliser burn and in worst case scenarios it can pull water from the roots causing wilting and even death. 

During the flowering stage a plant can handle a higher EC level. This stimulates sugars to condense and also encourages the plant to protect itself by producing more natural antioxidants. 

HOW DO I ALTER THE EC LEVEL?

To reduce the EC level of your nutrient solution add more water.

To increase the EC level of your nutrient solution add more feeds.