When using acid injection, be sure to acidify the water up-line from the nutrient injection point. This will optimize the solubility of fertilizer running through the system. Additionally, use acidified water to mix all fertilizer and pesticide solutions. The presence of high soluble salts in irrigation water is one of the most limiting factors in the production of nursery and greenhouse crops. Although management techniques may be used to deal with some of these problems, certain situations require more drastic action.
RO water is cheaper than distilled or deionized water and the overall quality is the same.
While it is possible to purchase an RO system, most units now in operation are under lease. Unfortunately, the use of RO water does not solve all the problems associated with soluble salts. In fact, it can create some very unique situations that are, in many respects, more difficult to correct. Growers generally take for granted the micronutrients present in irrigation water. This source of essential elements is extremely important in supplementing a basic fertility program, as well as those nutrients in the growing medium.