The Importance of pH Balance in Cannabis Plant Nutrition
The Importance of pH Balance in Cannabis Plant Nutrition
Cannabis is a plant sensitive to pH levels. Maintaining the proper pH balance is very important for their growth and development. pH is a measure of the acidity or alkalinity of a substance and ranges from 0 to 14, and 7 is neutral. The ideal pH range for the cannabis plant is between 5.5 and 6.5, with 6.0 being the most ideal level.
pH Affects Nutrient Uptake in the Cannabis Plant
The pH of the growing medium affects the availability of nutrients for the cannabis plant. In the soil, nutrients are most available to the plant when the pH is between 6.0 and 7.0. If the pH is too low, nutrients such as calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus become less available, leading to deficiencies in the plant. If the pH is too high, micronutrients such as iron, manganese, and zinc are less available.
In hydroponic systems, the ideal pH range is even narrower, almost somewhere between 5.5 and 6.0. Since hydroponic systems lack soil, the nutrient solution must be carefully monitored and adjusted to maintain the proper pH level. If the pH is too high or too low, the plants will not receive the nutrients they need, leading to stunted growth and low yields.
pH Affects Microorganisms in the Soil
Ensuring the proper pH balance in the soil naturally affects the microorganisms living in the soil. These microorganisms are important for breaking down organic matter and providing nutrients to the plant. If the pH is too low or too high, this affects the balance of microorganisms and leads to an increasingly unhealthy soil environment.
pH affects the plant's ability to resist pests and diseases
Cannabis plants grown in the appropriate pH range show better resistance to pests and diseases. When the pH drops, the plant may be more susceptible to pests such as spider mites and aphids, as well as diseases such as powdery mildew and root rot.
How to maintain proper pH levels?
The best way to maintain proper pH levels in cannabis plants is to regularly check the soil or nutrient solution and bring the pH level to the required level. There are pH test kits available at horticultural stores that can be used to test the pH of the soil or nutrient solution.
By the way, here's an all-natural trick: If the pH is too high, you can lower it by adding an acidic substance such as vinegar or lemon juice to the soil or nutrient solution. If the pH is too low, you can raise it by adding a basic ingredient like baking soda or potassium hydroxide.
