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Hydroponics is taking the world by storm and creating an ever-growing number of international enthusiasts. Kiwis are getting into hydroponics in Hamilton NZ with the same zeal as Canadians in Hamilton Ontario; while this can only be a good thing given all the advantages of this form of plant cultivation, some of the basics are often overlooked in the excitement of setting up and getting started. Proper ventilation is one of them.
If you were to look at hydroponic failures on a global level, inadequate ventilation would be a common cause. It’s a vital factor in hydroponic plant growth but one that doesn’t receive as much attention as it requires in many cases. A lot of effort is put into the selection of the right grow tent, LED grow lights, nutrients, and (of course) plants. They are seen as the most obvious stepping stones towards hydroponic success, while ventilation is some way down the shopping list for many beginners. That’s a big mistake.
Why is ventilation so important in hydroponics? Because it supplies fresh air from outside a grow tent or growing room which, in turn, provides CO2 for your plants and ignites photosynthesis as a result. Without photosynthesis, there’s no plant growth full stop. Photosynthesis is a chemical reaction that takes place inside a plant, producing food for the plant to survive. Carbon dioxide, water and light are all needed for photosynthesis to take place, and that is why ventilation is a necessary component in this process.
While it is important to let air in, it is just as important to expel air that isn’t as fresh. This will minimise the build-up of moisture, keep the temperature at a comfortable level, prevent mould and mildew from forming on the leaves of your plants, and remove strong odours. Inline duct fans are effective tools in expelling hot and humid air from inside a grow room or tent and should be on everyone’s shopping list, be they in Hamilton NZ, or Hamilton Canada.
Carbon filters should be on that list too. The air that surrounds plants in a grow tent or growing room can contain pathogens and odours. Carbon filters are designed to neutralise smells and remove and absorb impurities using a process called adsorption. In a perfect hydroponics setup, air carbon filters are installed alongside an exhaust fan and ducting system. The air is drawn into the filter, and impurities and odours are trapped inside the unit and don’t spread outside the growing area.
When seen in this overall context, the need for ventilation becomes blindingly obvious. Yet, for all that, it is still an afterthought for many people setting up their own hydroponic system. This is why an increasing number of hydroponic suppliers, like this one in Auckland, New Zealand, are now selling hydroponics kits which include vital ventilation equipment as part of the package. It’s a smart way for beginners to make ventilation part of their set up from Day One, and that’s how it needs to be.
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