
Navin Kumar B. answered 02/27/23
Statistics Tutor with an extensive biology background
A rise in pH in a deep water culture system can be caused by various factors, including changes in the nutrient solution, bacterial growth, and changes in dissolved oxygen levels. It is possible that the nutrient additive floralicious plus is causing the pH rise, but it is difficult to confirm without further testing and analysis.
One possible explanation for the pH rise is the release of organic acids by bacteria in the system. Bacteria can break down organic matter in the nutrient solution, releasing organic acids that can increase the pH. The use of a nutrient additive like floralicious plus could potentially provide a food source for bacteria, leading to increased bacterial growth and organic acid production.
To confirm whether bacterial growth is causing the pH rise, you could test the nutrient solution for bacterial growth and measure the pH over time. You could also try adding an antibacterial agent to the nutrient solution to see if this reduces the pH rise.
It is also possible that the pH rise is due to changes in the dissolved oxygen levels in the system. Changes in dissolved oxygen can affect the pH balance in the nutrient solution, so it is important to ensure that the system has adequate aeration and circulation to maintain consistent oxygen levels.
In any case, it is important to closely monitor the pH levels in the system and take appropriate measures to prevent pH fluctuations from negatively impacting plant growth. Regular water quality testing and maintenance can help to identify and address issues before they become problematic.