Understanding EC, TDS, and pH in Hydroponics

Hydroponics is all about precision, and three numbers guide everything: EC, TDS, and pH.

EC (Electrical Conductivity)

• Measures how much nutrient is dissolved in your water.

• Higher EC = more concentrated feed.

• Leafy greens thrive at 1.0–1.4, while fruiting crops like peppers or tomatoes prefer 2.0–2.5.

TDS (Total Dissolved Solids)

• Usually shown in ppm on hobby meters.

• It’s just EC converted into a different scale.

• Because conversion factors vary, EC is more accurate for serious growers.

pH

• Tells you if your solution is acidic or alkaline.

• Most crops love 5.5–6.5.

• If pH drifts out of range, nutrients “lock out,” meaning your plants can’t absorb them—even if they’re present in the water.

The right EC and pH keep your plants fed and thriving. That’s why every Victory Garden Hydroponics tower grower should keep a simple EC/pH meter on hand.