Maximum Yield USA December 2017 | Page 96

tips & tricks Depending on the locale of an indoor garden, most air-quality issues come about as an excess of humidity. Moreover, if one is running a hydroponic system, the presence of standing water in tables and reservoirs greatly increases the relative humid- ity in a room. There are a variety of reasons as to why cultiva- tors must maintain proper humidity levels in their growrooms. For the most part, properly balanced humidity in a garden helps plants combat airborne pathogens and ensures appro- priate nutrient uptake. To illustrate, both powdery mildew and botrytis thrive in poorly ventilated, humid conditions. Also, if immersed in overly humid conditions, plants tend to pull water directly from the air instead of through their root systems. This phenomenon can cause issues with both overwatering and malnutrition. Air quality issues relating to excess humidity can be rectified with pro