Which practice would reduce the transpiration rate in plants?

Which practice would reduce the transpiration rate in plants?

• A. Increase humidity
• B. Group plants together
• C. Reduce wind speed
• D. All of the above

Answer: (D)

Transpiration rate drops when the water vapor gradient between the inside of the leaf and the surrounding air is reduced, and when the leaf’s boundary layer becomes thicker so diffusion slows. Increasing humidity around the plant lowers the vapor pressure difference that drives water vapor out of the leaf, so less transpiration occurs. Reducing wind speed also thickens the leaf’s boundary layer, meaning water vapor diffuses away more slowly, which lowers transpiration. Grouping plants together creates a microclimate with higher ambient humidity and less air movement between leaves, further reducing both the vapor pressure gradient and diffusion. Because each of these practices can lessen transpiration, all of the above is the best answer.

Transpiration rate drops when the water vapor gradient between the inside of the leaf and the surrounding air is reduced, and when the leaf’s boundary layer becomes thicker so diffusion slows.

Increasing humidity around the plant lowers the vapor pressure difference that drives water vapor out of the leaf, so less transpiration occurs. Reducing wind speed also thickens the leaf’s boundary layer, meaning water vapor diffuses away more slowly, which lowers transpiration. Grouping plants together creates a microclimate with higher ambient humidity and less air movement between leaves, further reducing both the vapor pressure gradient and diffusion. Because each of these practices can lessen transpiration, all of the above is the best answer.