Map Leaf Symptoms to Probable Causes
30 minutesDocument yellowing pattern, tip burn, wilting, and root color; cross-reference with recent EC, pH, and temperature logs.
Field context
This workflow is part of 4 niche fields
Complete guide for hydroponic troubleshooting — step-by-step workflow, tools, checklist, and expert tips to get started.
Document yellowing pattern, tip burn, wilting, and root color; cross-reference with recent EC, pH, and temperature logs.
Check water temperature at reservoir and root mat, calculate chiller BTU if above 72°F, verify air stone oxygenation.
Adjust pH drift, reset EC if lockout suspected, add beneficial bacteria or hydrogen peroxide dilution for root issues per calculator.
Revise water change interval, chiller sizing, or nutrient strength based on root cause; log incident in grow journal.
Identifies when reservoir temp exceeds safe dissolved oxygen threshold.
Corrects pH drift causing nutrient lockout mimicking deficiency symptoms.
Sizes chiller when root zone temperature chronically exceeds 70°F.
Calculates safe foliar feed dilution when root uptake is compromised.
Symptom Quick Reference
| Symptom | Likely Cause | First Action |
|---|---|---|
| Tip burn | EC too high | Lower EC 10% |
| Interveinal yellow | Iron lockout (high pH) | Lower pH to 6.0 |
| Wilting wet roots | Root rot / low O2 | Cool water + more air |
| Purple stems | Phosphorus stress or genetics | Check EC and pH first |
Adjust pH before adding nutrients — pH drift after mixing wastes expensive inputs.
Keep reservoir 65–70°F — warmer water holds less oxygen and invites root rot.
Drip loops on all cords entering reservoirs and GFCI on every outlet.