Water and nutrient solutions
Complete insight into the chemical and biological quality of irrigation water
Drain water analysis provides insight into how nutrients behave in the root zone. It shows which nutrients are taken up by the crop and which remain in the system. In recirculating systems, this information is essential to detect accumulation of salts or unwanted elements, prevent nutrient imbalances and adjust fertilisation in time. Monitoring the chemical composition of water is crucial in determining an appropriate fertilisation plan, as maintaining optimal growing conditions ensures optimal quality and yield.
What are water and nutrient solutions?
Water and nutrient solutions are a full-service portfolio for analysing irrigation water and nutrient solutions. The analyses identify salts, nutrients, harmful substances and microbiological risks, helping you maintain optimal growing conditions and safeguard crop quality.
Eurofins Agro Testing tests all relevant water sources in greenhouse horticulture, including tank water, tap water, osmosis water, nutrient solution and drain water.
Why water quality matters
Good and sufficient water is a basic requirement for growing. Sodium and chlorine must remain low, and the EC must stay within crop-specific thresholds.
In recirculating systems, harmful substances may accumulate, drippers may become blocked, and pathogens such as bacteria, fungi and viruses may circulate through the system.
Water quality directly influences:
- Nutrient uptake
- Plant health
- Yield and produce quality
- System hygiene and recirculation safety
Biological water analyses
Biological analyses detect microorganisms that influence plant health, system hygiene or recirculated water safety.
Available biological tests include:
- DNA Multiscan
- Plant Doctor
- Human pathogens
- Soil Life Monitor
- Microbiome profiling
These analyses help monitor system sanitation, track pathogens and support preventive crop health strategies.
When to use water and nutrient solutions
Water and nutrient analyses are suitable for:
- Setting fertilisation strategies
- Monitoring nutrient solution composition
- Keeping recirculation systems clean and safe
- Early detection of harmful substances or pathogens
- Supporting certification and water quality standards
- Troubleshooting crop issues caused by water quality
Chemical water analyses
Chemical analyses give insight into the salts, nutrients and elements that determine fertilisation strategy and irrigation quality. Eurofins Agro Testing offers tests for tank water, osmosis water, tap water, nutrient solutions and drain water. These analyses determine key parameters such as pH, EC, major ions and trace elements.
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