House & Garden Growers Journal 2017 May 2017 | Page 25

3. Environmental Control
For generative growth in photoperiodic plants we understand the required lighting is usually 12hrs / 12hrs off. We
need to remember the changes that occur as lighting can drastically influence temperature and humidity levels.
Always ensure you have appropriate environmental control to account for increased night time humidity spikes as
well as daytime heat and humidity control. Aim for 50-60% humidity and you shouldn’t encounter any problems.
4. Make your plants work harder
Crop manipulation and selective training will ensure you can maximise your spatial efficiency and get the most
from every plant. Investigate the best relevant practices for your crop species but always be tender so as to not
shock the plant. De-leafing, topping, supercropping and LST are all different methods of adapting the plant to
better suit their surroundings. If done effectively, this can increase airflow to the plant and reduce problems with
mould and bacteria on flowers.
5. Select your genetics carefully
For the best possible results in any field of horticulture it’s essential to begin with the best possible genetics
available for the selected plant species. My favourite homegrown strawberries came from a rare hybrid that
my aunty had produced on her farm outside of Sydney. Regardless of the seasonal weather and how much I
neglected them, they still outperformed my average store-bought strawberry seedlings.
Try searching online for the elite providers of your desired plant species, and try
to pick genetics that suit your current climate.
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