How well plants grow is dependent on many factors. Conditions like air temperature, sunlight, soil pH, and nutrient levels all have an impact on a plant’s health and eventual size. These can all be controlled in a relatively simple way with thermostats, fertilizers, and lamps. Another important factor is the humidity level. Relative humidity is determined by the temperature in the growing room and the amount of water vapor in the air.
Humidity can promote or inhibit mold growth on the plant as well as keeping the soil from drying out too quickly. Depending on a plant’s growth period and the desired result, a relative humidity of 45%-55% is optimal. This range prevents any mold spores in the air from maturing on the plant or in the soil. It is also enough humidity in the air to prevent excessive evaporation of moisture from the soil, allowing more of the water to be drawn into the plant itself. Keeping the relative humidity in this range can keep a plant healthy as well as allow it to naturally grow in its preferred environment.
Controlling humidity can be done in a number of ways. Ventilation systems and fans can be used to bring in drier outside air and lower the relative humidity in the growing room. Ventilation does have the possible hazard of drawing in air too warm Increasing the temperature allows the air to hold more water vapor, also lowering the humidity level in the area. A dehumidifier can be used to maintain a humidity level regardless of air flow or temperature.
Raising the humidity can be accomplished by lowering the temperature or simply adding more water to the room via misters, a humidifier, or simply placing a pitcher of water in the room and allowing it to evaporate. Unlike adjusting a thermostat or changing the frequency of a drip system’s waterings, adjusting an area’s humidity has an almost immediate effect.
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