Total Dissolved Solids (TDS)
By Kirk Gordon | Date Submitted: 08/26/05
Category: Home:Gardening
Keywords: tds, total, dissolved, disolved, plants, hydroponics, nutrient, solution, grow, gardening
Summary: Introduction to Total-Dissolved Solids (TDS), the total amount of dissolved substance in nutrient solution.
Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) consist mainly of carbonates, bicarbonates, chlorides, sulfates, phosphates, nitrates, calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, iron, manganese, others. They do not include gases, colloids, or sediment.
The TDS can be estimated by measuring the specific conductance of the water. Dissolved solids in "natural water" such as rain, range from less than 10 mg/i to more than 100,000 mg/I for brines. TDS is the sum of all materials dissolved in a solution and has many different mineral sources.
TDS effects on plants
A solution with a high concentration of dissolved salts will prevent plant roots from absorbing water and nutrients. A solution high in saline concentration contributes to poor plant growth. Additionally, some salts may enter the plant and cause a toxic effect. In Australia, for example, the most common toxic salt is sodium chloride.
Reducing TDS in solution
Before attempting to reduce TDS in a solution , you must first get a reading of the TDS level using a TDS meter. Reduction is accomplished by reducing the total amount of dissolved salts found in a solution. This is done by deionizating the solution or through reverse osmosis.
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