Episode 153: Rethinking the Basics: pH, Water, Light & Nutrients with Bryant Mason

This wide-ranging conversation with Bryant Mason covers a series of essential—but frequently misunderstood—topics in organic cultivation. We explore why simple, low-tech data collection strategies often outperform high-tech systems and how to interpret those readings in the real world. From there, we break down how pH truly behaves in biologically active soils, what your water test results do and don’t tell you, and how water chemistry shapes nutrient availability.

We also discuss practical considerations for under-canopy lighting, when it helps and when it’s a distraction, and dig into the recurring challenges Bryant sees around phosphorus and nitrogen management in living soil. Throughout the episode we jump between concepts, case studies, and troubleshooting insights that growers can apply immediately.

Topics Covered:

Low-tech monitoring and data-collection approaches

pH dynamics in organic systems

Water testing and interpreting results

Under-canopy lighting: pros, cons, and real-world use

Phosphorus and nitrogen management in living soil

Practical troubleshooting and decision-making strategies

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