Water pH must be known prior to irrigation of crops. Injection of phosphoric acid into the irrigation lines will help lower excessively high water pH. Acid type fertilizers can be used to help lower the pH in alkaline soils. Total soluble salts, pH, calcium, carbonate, magnesium and sodium levels should be determined prior to growing greenhouse stock. The Department of Agronomy at Oklahoma State University tests suitability of irrigation water at a nominal cost. Contact your local OSU County Extension Office for help in submitting a sample for testing.
Municipal water is generally acceptable but expensive in large production areas.
Although chlorinated water is rarely harmful to plants, short of certain hydroponic systems, even 0.5 ppm fluorine may reduce salability of sensitive crops. Softened water is not appropriate for irrigation purposes. Determine the pressure, pipe size and flow rate of the water source. When city water cannot be used or is not desirable, determine if a suitable well can be drilled. Also, look elsewhere for water sources such as streams, lakes, etc.