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As well as releasing oxygen created during photosynthesis, plants need to absorb oxygen to perform respiration – i.e. to make energy. Since plant roots are non-photosynthetic tissues that can’t produce oxygen, they get it from air pockets in the soil or grow medium. These air pockets can vary in size based on the makeup of the growing medium, and also on the water saturation levels of the medium. Root oxygenation and soil aeration play an important role in both transpiration and cellular respiration in all plants. This means that plants are highly dependent on the growing medium that holds the optimal amount of oxygen within. Make sure not to overwater, as roots in compacted soil or fully submerged in water with low O2 can cause irreversible damage if left unchecked. This is why even when growing hydroponically, when the roots are submerged in water, it’s important to have an air pump to incorporate adequate O2 to the roots. Grow mediums like coco coir and soils that contain perlite promote aeration and are less prone to overwatering. It is commonly said that an ideal soil is 50% pore space (water + air), 5 % organic matter, and 45% minerals. The ideal mixture for plant growth is called a loam and has roughly 40% sand, 40% silt and 20% clay.
Transpiration is the process by which plants release water vapor into the atmosphere. Roots to tip of leaves, It's a vital part of the water cycle and plant health. Transpiration is the process by which plants release water into the atmosphere through their leaves. It's a passive process that cools plants and is a major part of the water cycle.
Plants absorb water and nutrients from the soil through their roots , the water is transported through the plant's tissues to the leaves water evaporates from the leaves through tiny pores called stomata. Transpiration removes heat from the air and cools the plant, transpiration returns water to the atmosphere, which is a major part of the water cycle. The water that enters the roots contains nutrients that are vital for plant growth.
Factors that affect transpiration
Temperature: Higher temperatures increase the rate of transpiration
Light intensity: Higher light intensity increases the rate of transpiration
Wind speed: Higher wind speeds increase the rate of transpiration
Humidity: Higher humidity decreases the rate of transpiration
Carbon dioxide levels: Higher carbon dioxide levels decrease the rate of transpiration
Evapotranspiration: The sum of transpiration and evaporation
Evaporation is an endothermic process, meaning it absorbs heat. This heat, known as the latent heat of vaporisation, is necessary to break the molecular bonds of liquid water, allowing it to transition into a gas.
The cohesion-tension theory explains how negative pressure enables water movement from the roots to the leaves of a cannabis plant. As water evaporates from the leaf surfaces through stomata, tension is created, generating a suction force that pulls water upwards through the xylem vessels. This process relies on the cohesive forces between water molecules, forming a continuous column for efficient water transport.In cannabis plants, xylem vessels serve as the conduits for water transport. These specialized cells form interconnected channels that allow water to move upwards from the roots to the leaves. The negative pressure generated through the cohesion-tension mechanism helps drive the water flow within the xylem vessels. Negative pressure facilitates the movement of water from the soil, through the roots, and up to the leaves of cannabis plants. It helps maintain proper hydration and turgor pressure, ensuring the cells remain firm and upright. This is crucial for healthy growth and structural support. Negative pressure transports water and aids in the uptake and transport of dissolved nutrients within the cannabis plant. As water is pulled up through the xylem vessels, essential nutrients and minerals are transported along with it, supplying the various tissues and organs where they are needed for optimal growth and development.
The term ‘relative humidity’ (RH) refers to the amount of water vapor in the air and is usually expressed as a percentage (e.g. 50% RH). This can have a major impact on how cannabis plants grow. Low humidity means less water in the air and results in increased evaporation and water use. Excessive humidity comes with its own problems, including creating an ideal environment for pests, mildew, and mold to grow.
One key factor related to humidity that is often left out of the conversation is vapor-pressure deficit (VPD) – the difference between the maximum water vapor the air can hold at a given temperature and RH. Although not all growers measure VPD, it significantly influences stomata activity and is directly related with transpiration rate and metabolism.
A VPD that is too high means drier air and increased evaporation and transpiration. Too low a VPD can lead to slowed transpiration and reduced growth. Since slowed transpiration reduces nutrient uptake, both too high and too low of a VPD may appear as nutrient deficiencies. It is VPD that drives transpiration and nutrient uptake in plants; the uptake of water at the roots is determined by the loss of water through the shoots, and the loss of water through the shoots is determined by how much water is in the air.
Humidity levels influence the rate of water evaporation from the leaves of cannabis plants, which directly affects the tension and suction created within the plant. Higher humidity levels can reduce the rate of evaporation, potentially impacting the negative pressure and water transport efficiency within the plant.
Electrical conductivity, though an invisible factor, is a cornerstone of successful gardening and farming. By understanding and managing EC levels, gardeners and farmers can profoundly influence the health and productivity of their plants. As we continue to explore the nuances of plant growth, the role of EC stands out as a testament to the marriage of science and nature in cultivating life. Whether in soil, water, or air, mastering the art of electrical conductivity can unlock the full potential of our green companions, leading to bountiful harvests and vibrant gardens. At its core, EC measures the presence of soluble ions like potassium, calcium, magnesium, and nitrates – all vital nutrients for plant growth. These ions carry electrical charges, and their movement creates an electrical current, detectable as conductivity. High EC levels typically mean a high concentration of dissolved ions, whereas low EC levels indicate fewer nutrients are available. The relationship between EC and plant growth is a delicate balance. Just the right EC level can enhance nutrient uptake, bolster plant health, and increase yields. However, when EC levels stray too far from the optimal range, they can lead to nutrient imbalances, osmotic stress, and even plant death. Plants absorb nutrients from the soil or water through their roots, a process influenced by the surrounding EC levels. Ideal EC levels help create an optimal environment for this exchange, ensuring plants receive the nutrients they need without exerting excessive energy. While a certain level of dissolved ions is beneficial, excessively high EC levels can harm plants. High salinity can draw water out of plant cells, leading to dehydration and nutrient lockout – a condition where plants cannot absorb essential nutrients despite their presence. Conversely, low EC levels can starve plants of necessary nutrients, stunt growth, and lead to underdeveloped or diseased plants. Maintaining an optimal EC range is crucial for healthy plant development.
As we look at the soil structure, it’s a composition of particles; those particles attract the positive ions (+Ve), repel the Negative ions (-ve), and float freely in the water. This attraction of Cation by the soil particles is called Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC), which measures the number of cations that can be retained by the soil particles. The higher the CEC, the more Cation Nutrients can be stored in the soil. As a result, the higher CEC soils can become more nutrient-rich; also, keep in mind the soil composition is diverse and varies among different soil types.
Cation exchange capacity (CEC) is a critical soil property that directly influences nutrient availability and plant growth.
The average CEC of coco coir is between 40-100 (meq/100g)
Organic matter has a very high CEC ranging from 250 to 400 meq/100 g.
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