From: Alberto Machado Sorry for my intromission , Brix , mesures all solids that are > soluble on the plant not only the sugars , including minerals, protein , > these with the higher sugar give a sweeter tasting if soil is in god > conditions , crops with higher Brix produce more alcool for the micobiology > , tastes better , are more insects resistant, and better shelf life. But in > grass witch I work is hard to extract the liquid sample, normaly you use the > intermidiate leaf of the pant.
Hi Alberto Thanks for your contribution on brix - do not worry about your spelling you bring us good information - keep up the good work. We use the refractometer a lot and if you are having trouble getting a sap sample from grass plants I use a pair of modified vice grip pliers that work really well. If you like to send me a fax number offlist then I can fax you the drawing of these pliers and you could make a pair. (or have some made) They dont cost much to make and really do work. Cheers Lloyd Charles