Maximum Yield USA April 2017 | Page 72

trends & technology
Supplying a periodic gentle breeze for your hydroponic crop can help increase the odds of more normal strength of growth and plant vigor . It is to be noted that the grower needs to thoroughly understand the differences between mild beneficial wind stimulation to the stem or trunk and the more severe stress associated with heavy and frequent wind or any other form of mechanical movement . Hormones like auxins and ethylene are responsible for managing various growth aspects for our crops . Ethylene is also used by growers to help ripen fruits . The presence of ethylene during the mature state of the fruit will help increase sugars while reducing acid . We ’ ve all tasted fruit that has not had time to ripen . Bananas turn yellow during this process and you ’ ve probably noticed how much sweeter they get . Mechanical movement will trigger responses in the production of this process . Using synthetic breezes when growing in a windless hydroponic environment can help to maintain an adequate level of both . Using wind early in a very diminished and controlled way can help get your crop started in the right direction .

Strong winds

will also tend to cause the stomata on the plant leaves to close , reducing CO 2 intake and weakening photosynthesis .” 70 grow cycle