A device used to measure the electrical conductivity of a nutrient solution specifically designed for soilless plant cultivation indicates the total dissolved salts present. A reading expressed in millisiemens (mS) or parts per million (ppm) provides information about the concentration of nutrients available to plants in a hydroponic system.
Maintaining an optimal nutrient concentration is crucial for plant health and productivity in hydroponics. Readings from these devices assist in ensuring that plants receive adequate, but not excessive, nourishment. Historically, growers relied on visual assessment and basic pH measurements, but these tools provide a more precise and reliable method for managing nutrient solutions, leading to improved yields and reduced nutrient waste.