I love this quote by Mokokoma Mokhonoana- “Plants are more courageous than almost all human beings: an orange tree would rather die than produce lemons, whereas instead of dying the average person would rather be someone they are not.”
I believe in using a humidifier for my plants every few weeks.
While different people have different ideas about how often one should use a humidifier, I have found that it is best to use a humidifier every few weeks.
The reason I say this is because, with this approach, we can be sure that there is no dirt or dust on them, and also ensure that they get the right moisture for growth.
I have observed that some plant enthusiasts place their humidifiers in their homes during the cold season. The logic behind this is to prevent cold air from blowing directly on the plants.
In my view, it is an excellent idea to keep the indoor plants warmer during winter.
Understanding Humidifiers for Home Gardens
Having a home garden is a wonderful feeling. However, maintaining a home garden is not always easy.
Questions such as when I should use a humidifier for plants or should I use a humidifier indoors or outdoors confuse us at times. Plants need good quality air for their growth.
With indoor plants, we should create an environment where we can add humidity to the air.
Humidifier air consists of tiny particles that can hold water. As a result, our indoor plants achieve a better root system, thus translating into faster growth.
Another benefit of using a humidifier is that it improves the air quality indoors. By removing pollutants and odors, these devices clean the indoor air.
I recommend using a humidifier in the lowest humidity setting during the first few days.
Once the pants start getting used to the humidity, we can raise the humidity to the desired levels. Starting on the lowest setting is a must in my opinion.
I have also used a humidifier for my outdoor garden space. For example, I keep my humidifier at the bottom of a bucket in my greenhouse. And when I use it in my yard, I keep it in a corner, next to the plants.
During hot, dry weather, I suggest keeping the humidifier next to the plants. The heat from the sun makes the air dry. Due to the lack of moisture in the air, plants can quickly start deteriorating.
When the temperature drops quickly, the air absorbs moisture, and the plant roots start attracting more moisture as well. However, due to the dry soil, plants have difficulty draining the moisture out.
This is why I highly recommend using a dehumidifier when plants start getting wilted. The idea is to supply enough moisture to bring back the plants from their wilted state.
When we do this regularly, our plants will get the right amount of moisture, and they will grow better.
Plants need love and care for optimal growth. The right level of moisture is one of the most important things for a plant to grow properly. Stressing plants with too much light indoors is not a good idea.
That is why I keep the lights off in areas where I have my indoor plants. I also make sure to fill the water bowl to the brim. Whenever I see that the soil has become dry and hard, I switch on the humidifier.
At times, I also use humidifier-based plant food for my plants.
How to use a humidifier?
It is important that we understand how a humidifier works. A humidifier directs water (moisture) into the air. As a result, the air becomes humid or wet.
As we know, plants grow in the right humid conditions. Without a sufficient amount of water and air circulation, plants can die. I have also used humidifiers on my porch to maintain adequate water and air circulation.
I suggest understanding what kind of plants need a humidifier in the first place.
Trees and shrubs, for example, do not need the same amounts of humidity as indoor plants. Some plants require more humidity than others. This is why it is important that we study the plant before investing in a humidifier.
Types of Humidifiers
A humidifier can be electric or hydraulic. Electric humidifiers are generally common in places with wet climates. These devices use a pump to draw in water.
The device releases water vapor into the air, thereby adding humidity through steam. When using an electric humidifier, we must regularly fill it with water.
For those living in dry climates, hydraulic humidifiers are a better option. These devices suck air from the air and evaporate it into the atmosphere.
Because of this complexity, hydraulic humidifiers cost more than electric ones. Personally, I prefer a hydraulic humidifier over an electric one as I can use it even when I am not at home.
Using a humidifier is a child’s play. However, learning which one to use, and when to use, is the difficult part. With the right humidifier, plants grow better and faster.
