30 Jan Why CO2?

All organisms need energy to fuel metabolic reactions for growth and development. However, no organism can use direct light energy for their needs. The light energy must be converted to chemical energy through a process called photosynthesis. Photosynthesis converts the light energy into sugars that can be used by the plant. These sugars are constructed from water and carbon dioxide, and oxygen is the byproduct. The sugars (glucose molecules) provide two important resources for the plant.

The first thing these sugars provide, is an energy source for the cells, for cellular respiration and fermentation. This process produces adenosine triphosphate, which provides for the cell’s immediate energy needs. The second thing that these sugars do is provide a source of carbon from carbon dioxide to product carbon fixation. The fixed carbon from photosynthesis can then be used to build other organic molecules that the plant cells need.

Without adequate CO2 the photosynthesis process would stop. The normal levels of CO2 in the atmosphere is 400 PPM and this is the level consistent for plants that are growing outside. In a control space such as a grow room or a tent you can increase the CO2 levels, with the use of Exhale bags or CO2 tanks, and this will increase the photosynthesis activity. The level of 1000 PPM CO2 is very close to the optimal level to get the best results for your plants. The stronger your light source the more important it is to provide the extra CO2 to optomize the plants photosynthesis process. This can also help prevent leaf burn.