Cultivation Technique
Airflow
Airflow is the movement of air around plants that helps control temperature, humidity, and overall plant health.
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What Airflow Means
Airflow refers to the controlled movement of air within a growing environment, whether outdoors, in a greenhouse, or in an indoor grow space. Proper airflow is essential for maintaining stable conditions and supporting healthy plant growth throughout all life stages.
How Airflow Affects Plants
Air movement directly influences transpiration (water vapor release from leaves), gas exchange (CO₂ intake and O₂ release), and temperature regulation. Moving air prevents stagnant, humid pockets around leaves, allowing plants to photosynthesize efficiently.
Historical Perspective
The importance of airflow became more evident with indoor cultivation. Greenhouse and indoor growers discovered that stagnant air increases risks of fungal diseases like powdery mildew and botrytis, leading to modern ventilation systems using circulation fans, exhaust fans, and passive air intake.
Practical Benefits in Cultivation
Proper airflow strengthens stems through mild mechanical stress, promotes even heat distribution across the canopy, and reduces excess humidity, lowering the risk of mold and pest issues. It also helps maintain a consistent microclimate for optimal growth.
Managing Airflow
Airflow must be balanced: too little can create damp, disease-prone conditions, while too much or direct airflow can cause wind burn, dehydration, and stress. Oscillating fans are often used to simulate gentle, natural air movement. Requirements change as plants develop—seedlings need very gentle movement, vegetative plants benefit from moderate circulation, and flowering plants require careful airflow management to protect dense buds.
Related terms:
Ventilation, Humidity Control, Transpiration, Wind Burn, Environmental Management, Indoor Growing, Circulation Fans, Exhaust Fan, Mold Prevention, Pest Control, Photosynthesize, Botrytis
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