Irrigation in greenhouses can be a major challenge for some managers because water supply and water quality can considerably affect the success of the crop. However, regular water analysis is not always a common practice in many greenhouses.
Considering that water may be coming from many sources throughout the year, there can be variability in quality. That's why it is important to look in a water analysis.
The water provided by municipalities, ponds and wells can have variable chemistry throughout the year: after snow melts, in the summer drought, or after heavy rainfall. Why is this important? Water quality can impact a growing medium's pH because of high or low water alkalinity.
Therefore, a periodic water sampling and analysis program will keep tabs on the minerals or nutrients present in the water and which can affect a growing medium's pH and fertilizer availability for plants.