Perhaps the most overlooked aspect of gardening is pH. pH is
very important in hydroponic as well as regular "soil"
gardening. pH is measured on a scale of 1-14 with 7 being
"neutral". Acids are lower than 7 and alkalis (bases) are above
7. A plant grown in a hydroponic or soil garden must have a pH
balance to the specific plant's optimal pH range or the plant
will suffer. At best, if the pH range is not compatible with the
plant, the plant will grow poorly, be more susceptible to
disease, have lower yields or have blossoms that aren't as
brilliant or fragrant. At worst, if the pH range is not
compatible with the plant, "The Death Penalty" is the verdict.
An unbalanced pH will cause a condition known as "nutrient
lockout". This is a condition where the plant loses its ability
to absorb some of the essential elements required for healthy
growth. When the pH of a plant is unbalanced and nutrient
lockout occurs the plant mimics classic plant guide deficiencies
or excesses due to certain elements being deprived f