Modify moisture

Try one or more of these methods to keep high humidity levels from causing disease issues on plants.

Humidity reduction methods

Spring and fall are times when humidity-related diseases usually peak in the greenhouse. Sunny days increase the transpiration of moisture from leaf surfaces and evaporation from soil surfaces. The warm air holds the moisture in vapor form. At night, as the air cools to the dewpoint, condensation occurs and water droplets are formed on cooler surfaces such as the glazing and leaves. This moisture promotes the germination of fungal pathogen spores such as botrytis or powdery mildew. There are several ways to reduce the humidity level.

John is an agricultural engineer, an emeritus extension professor at the University of Connecticut and a regular contributor to Greenhouse Management. He is an author, consultant and certified technical service provider doing greenhouse energy audits for USDA grant programs in New England. jbartok@rcn.com

May 2023
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