based on what i read, i'd suggest changing watering habits. Don't try to micro-dose. Saturate substate with 20% runoff (if some sort of supersoil, just ensure complete hydration, some runoff will be necessary). if feeding a balanced diet, it'll maintain a happy equilibrium in the substrate if you maintain this 20% runoff habit. no build up. steady pH. consistent, vigorous growth. Then, wait for top 1" to dry before watering again -- fertilizer or irrigation, whatever it may be. Sounds like you'd fertilize each time with 20% runoff, but i don't kow what 'ewc' is.
when you get dry pockets, it does funky things to contents of soil as well as roots in those areas. it looks like a nitrogen deficiency, but it is on the top leaf.. that's not right. something odd is likely going on in root zone. If you are soilless and not providing trace elements, this may also be something to look into. if you see that stuff on your labels, it's not likely an issue.