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How to Test Leaves for Chlorophyll

Chlorophyll is a molecule as well as the green coloring found in leaves that is designed to absorb sunlight. The absorbed sunlight is used as energy for the leaf. Testing chlorophyll levels in leaves can give you an idea of he health of the leaf, especially if you need this data to assist with your planting or fertilizing techniques. The SAD 502 meter was designed to test for chlorophyll levels in leaves and also gives you the ability to download and save the readings.

Things You'll Need

SPAD 502 meter

Instructions

- 1
  Calibrate the SPAD 502 meter by placing the measuring heads together. Wait until you hear a beep and the measurement reads "N=0."
- 2
  Place the SPAD 502's measuring heads over the thickest portion of the leaf. This part of the leaf gives the most accurate testing reading for chlorophyll. Place the SPAD 502's measuring head over the thickest portion of all the leaves you are testing.
- 3
  Connect the SPAD 502's USB cable into your computer's USB port and connect the other end to the SPAD 502's data port. Wait for the green light to flash on the meter and click the "Download" button to view and save the readings on your computer.

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