Vertical farming light intensity
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Impact of Light Intensity on Vertical Farming: Insights and Optimization
Introduction to Vertical Farming and Light Intensity
Vertical farming is an innovative agricultural method that allows for the cultivation of crops in stacked layers, often in controlled indoor environments. This method is particularly beneficial for urban areas where space is limited. One of the critical factors influencing the success of vertical farming is light intensity, which directly affects plant growth, morphology, and productivity.
Effects of Light Intensity on Plant Growth and Morphology
Basil Growth and Morphology
Research on basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) has shown that increasing light intensity, measured as photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD), significantly enhances plant growth. Higher PPFD levels lead to increased fresh mass, dry matter content, and plant height across different basil cultivars. The response to light intensity can be linear or quadratic, depending on the cultivar. Additionally, a high fraction of blue light (>90%) increases plant height but decreases dry mass partitioning to the leaves. Far-red light treatments also improve dry matter production and partitioning to the leaves or stem, depending on the duration of exposure.
Lettuce and Other Leafy Greens
Lettuce, a common crop in vertical farming, shows optimal growth under light intensities of around 200 µmol·m²·s⁻¹ with a 16-hour photoperiod. This setup, often using a combination of blue and red light spectra, has been found to enhance productivity and quality. Similar light conditions have been standardized across various studies, indicating a general consensus on the effective light intensity for leafy greens .
Light Spectrum and Its Interaction with Intensity
Blue and Red Light
The combination of blue and red light is crucial for photosynthesis and crop yield. Blue light is particularly effective in promoting phytonutrient accumulation, while red light supports overall growth. However, the interaction between different light spectra and intensity can vary. For instance, green light has been found to inhibit plant growth in a blue-wavelength-dependent manner, highlighting the need for tailored light recipes for different developmental stages and species .
Far-Red Light
Far-red light, when used as an end-of-production (EOP) treatment, enhances dry matter content and partitioning to specific plant parts. This treatment is particularly beneficial shortly before harvest, improving both fresh mass and dry matter content.
Optimization Strategies for Light Use Efficiency
Light Segmentation and Photoperiod Adjustments
Optimizing light use efficiency (LUE) involves adjusting the photoperiod and light intensity. Studies have shown that extending the photoperiod while reducing light intensity can increase plant height, fresh weight, and dry weight. For example, a 20-24 hour light cycle with segmented light phases has been found to improve growth parameters and biomass production in various leafy greens.
Intermittent Light Exposure
Intermittent light exposure, where light is emitted in short cycles, can reduce energy consumption without significantly affecting plant growth. This method has been tested on basil plants, showing that intermittent lighting does not negatively impact growth rate or biomass production, making it a viable option for energy-efficient vertical farming.
Conclusion
Light intensity and spectrum play pivotal roles in the success of vertical farming. By optimizing these parameters, it is possible to enhance plant growth, morphology, and productivity while maintaining energy efficiency. Future research should continue to explore the interactive effects of different light wavelengths and intensities to develop tailored light recipes for various crops, ultimately contributing to the sustainability and scalability of vertical farming systems.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic
Response of Basil Growth and Morphology to Light Intensity and Spectrum in a Vertical Farm
Role of Spectrum-Light on Productivity, and Plant Quality over Vertical Farming Systems: Bibliometric Analysis
Systems Review: The Role of Light Spectrum in Plant Productivity and Quality in Vertical Farming Systems
Seeing the lights for leafy greens in indoor vertical farming
Light means power: harnessing light spectrum and UV-B to enhance photosynthesis and rutin levels in microtomato plants
Optimizing Light Use Efficiency and Quality of Indoor Organically Grown Leafy Greens by Using Different Lighting Strategies
Response of LED lights intensity on lettuce production in a home vertical farm
LED Lighting in Vertical Farming Systems Enhances Bioactive Compounds and Productivity of Vegetables Crops
Response of Strawberry to the Substitution of Blue Light by Green Light in an Indoor Vertical Farming System
Basil plants grown under intermittent light stress in a small-scale indoor environment: Introducing energy demand reduction intelligent technologies
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