Transpiration is the process in which plants lose water vapor and is part of a plants natural water cycle. This process is similar to sweating in humans, where the water we take into our bodies exits through our pores. In plants, water taken in by the roots exits the plant through tiny pore-like holes called stoma or stomata (plural), as well as the cuticles and other plant tissue. A majority of the water lose occurs through the stomata. The stomata are typically found in the highest concentration on the bottom sides of the leaves of most plants.

The rate of transpiration is effected by atmospheric changes like changes in temperature, humidity, or drying winds. The size of the stomata’s opening also effects the rate of transpiration and it’s size can be influenced by these changes. The transpiration rate can be reduced dramatically with the use of antitranspirants like Nature Shield™

Transpiration should be a concern for growers and gardeners especially when harvesting or transplanting, most often the amount of fibrous roots is reduced during these times. When the roots are disturbed this effects the plants ability to take up and replenish water that is lost through transpiration. Supplying adequate water is crucial until the plant can regenerate the fibrous roots needed for water uptake. The use of antitranspirants does not eliminate the need for water in the root zone. Antitranspirants aid the plant helping it retain water and plant vigor until the roots can be regenerated. Other times of concern include extreme temperature changes or spikes as well as during the shipping of plant material. During shipping for example plants may be exposed to drying winds or perhaps your shipping under refrigeration, in both cases water loss is a concern. During heat spikes the stomata open allowing large amounts of water vapor to be released, sometimes faster than it can be replaced especially in water stress conditions where there is not enough water available in the root zone.