Use agronomic testing to optimize greenhouse crops.
Several laboratory tests are available from the NCDA&CS Plant/Waste/Solution/Media Section to help growers of greenhouse crops keep abreast of potential nutritional problems.
Soilless media—Sample media prior to filling pots or bags to verify that pH and soluble salts are within the desired ranges.
Solution analysis— Submit samples of source water to determine if there are any problems that need to be corrected, such as high alkalinity or high mineral concentrations.
Submit samples of nutrient solutions to verify that the injector is working properly and that plants are receiving the targeted nutrient concentrations.
Plant tissue analysis—Submit samples every couple of weeks to monitor nutrient concentrations in the crop. This test predicts nutrient deficiencies or excesses before symptoms appear so growers can correct the problem quickly with as little reduction in yield as possible.