For small indoor tent environmental control ventilation is also fundamental for temperature and
humidity management. Always plan your temperature management to be able to cope with
extreme high and low temperatures expected in your climate. Grow room temperatures should
always be kept above 16oC and below 30oC as temperatures outside these parameters will slow/
stop plant growth.
Smart dimming switches and controllers for HID lighting (such as the HI-PAR CONTROL STATION)
are beginning to replicate the sunrise and sunset in nature with the intention of reducing drastic
temperature and humidity fluctuations. If humidity is too high it will slow evapo-transpiration,
reduce water movement in the plant and diminish the plant’s cooling ability (Cervantes, 2015).
High humidity also encourages disease spores that can attack during the day or night!
In Australia, heat management is generally the biggest issue in small growrooms. HID lamps and
ballasts radiate warm temperatures, however with smart reflector selection the heat generated
by your lamp(s) can be directly exhausted outside the room.
The HI-PAR Duo Reflector directly attaches ducting and fans onto your luminaire and can be
linked together for superior heat control efficiency. It’s worth investigating if you can dissipate
the warm air into the roof or outside the building (through a chimney or into the walls) but
always ensure you consider any unwanted fragrances and your neighbours.
When regulating the temperature and humidity, it’s important to remember that accurate
monitoring is essential. Modern technology has provided digital thermometers, hygrometers,
thermostats, humidistats and much more advanced sensory and regulating equipment. Ensure
you are testing the temperatures and humidity readings above and below the canopy level for
an accurate interpretation of your growroom climate.
The last quick tip for growroom environmental optimisation comes in the form of appropriate
crop management and pruning techniques. De-leafing in commercial production horticulture
encourages easier crop management and considerably improves air circulation around the plant.
Depending on your crop, it’s recommended to prune out lower spindly branches and foliage
that are not receiving much light.
Calculating ideal environmental conditions isn’t overly difficult, it just requires a little planning
and preparation. Always plan for the entire duration of your crops lifespans, especially coming
into summer or winter extremes of our harsh and unforgiving Australian climate.
Prepare for the worst, so you can provide the best and give your plants an immaculate
environment!
Written by Tom Forrest #TomForrestCF @ TomForrestCF
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