Understanding Humidity
Have you ever stepped outside on a summer day and instantly felt sticky and uncomfortable? It is humidity, the amount of water vapor present in the air, that is a critical environmental parameter in horticulture. Water vapour is just water in its gas form. While you can’t see it, you can certainly feel it, especially when the air is thick and heavy.
Different ways to measure humidity
There are different ways to measure humidity, but two common ones are:
- Relative humidity (RH)
This tells us how full the air is with moisture compared to how much it can actually hold at a certain temperature. For example, 50% RH means the air is holding half the moisture it could hold at that temperature.
- Absolute Humidity
This one’s more straightforward; it measures the actual amount of water vapour in the air, no matter the temperature. It is measured in grams of water per cubic meter of air. Absolute humidity tells you how many grams of water are floating around the box.
Why does humidity matter?
Humidity isn’t just about whether your hair frizzes or your clothes cling. It plays a big role in other factors also. Let’s review some of them.
- Weather and health
Humid air fuels clouds and storms. That muggy feeling before a thunderstorm is the rising of humidity. Too much humidity can make it hard to cool down, and while it affects your health, it can dry out your skin and throat. High humidity can trigger allergies, asthma and heat-related illnesses.
- Homes and technology
Too much humidity cracks the wood and wrapping floors and also damages the electronics. That’s why dehumidifiers, humidifiers and air conditioning aren’t just for comfort; they help protect your space. In places like data centres, factories and labs, even small changes in humidity can affect machines, materials and product quality.
How do we measure humidity?
Devices are used to measure humidity to detect the amount of water vapour in the air. Here are a few common ones:
- Hygrometer
This is the go-to device for measuring humidity. Analog hygrometer uses hair or metal to detect changes in moisture. Digital hygrometers are more modern, with displays that show temperature and humidity levels clearly.
- Psychrometer
This tool uses two thermometers, one dry and one wet. By comparing their readings, you can calculate relative humidity. It’s often used in science labs or weather stations.
- Smart sensors
Today, many homes and offices use smart humidity sensors connected to apps. They alert you when levels go too high or too low so you can take action fast.
How to prevent humidity-related problems
Humidity isn’t about comfort; it can affect your health, your home, and even your electronics. Here’s how to keep it in check.
- If your space feels damp, especially in basements or bathrooms, a dehumidifier can pull excess moisture from the air. Also, opening windows when the weather allows, especially after showers or cooking. Exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms can help.
- Organic mulch like straw, bark or leaves helps retain soil moisture and reduces evaporation. This means the surrounding air doesn’t dry out too quickly; it helps maintain steady humidity levels, especially in hot or dry conditions.
- Horticulture setups often include misting systems, foggers or shallow water trays to create a humid microclimate for plants that need extra moisture, like ferns, orchids and tropical varieties. These systems mimic natural humidity found in rainforests or humid environments.
- Soil and growing media like coco peat or vermiculite retain water differently. Media that hold moisture well can slowly release humidity into the air as it evaporates; it helps maintain a more consistent environment.
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