Photos showing the soilless systems tested in this experiment: deep water
culture (DWC), nutrient film technique (NFT), vertical tower, and aeroponics.
Athens, GA - Two new studies by the University of Georgia, Department of Horticulture provide critical insights into improving hydroponic lettuce and arugula production through optimized nutrient management and adaptive lighting control. The findings contribute to resource-efficient, high-yield hydroponic farming, supporting sustainable and controlled-environment agriculture.
Controlled environment agriculture (CEA) for leafy green production is becoming more popular due to increased environmental awareness. The use of hydroponic systems, as well as precisely controlled LED lighting systems allows for better control of the growing environment and fosters optimal plant growth.
The first study examines how varying potassium concentrations impact the morphological and physiological traits of hydroponic lettuce. Researchers analyzed growth responses, nutrient uptake, and overall plant health, identifying optimal potassium levels for maximizing yield while maintaining plant quality. Additionally, the study introduces an adaptive lighting control system designed to enhance photosynthetic efficiency and energy savings, further optimizing production in controlled environments.
The second study evaluates multiple soilless growing systems to determine which setups provide the best balance of yield, water use, and energy efficiency for arugula and lettuce. The comparative analysis offers growers critical data on the tradeoffs between different hydroponic techniques, informing better decisions for sustainable food production in greenhouses.
Together, these studies provide a comprehensive look at how horticulture, smart technology and precision agriculture can work in concert to optimize controlled-environment food production. As demand for year-round, resource-efficient leafy greens continues to rise, these findings offer timely and actionable insights for commercial growers and researchers alike.
Dr. Ferrarezi is an Associate Professor of Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) at the Department of Horticulture at the University of Georgia. His program focuses on irrigation, plant nutrition and cropping systems, and emphasizes production issues confronting greenhouse and indoor farming production.
The full studies can be found on the ASHS HortScience electronic journal website at:
https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI17806-24 and https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI18391-24
Established in 1903, the American Society for Horticultural Science is recognized around the world as one of the most respected and influential professional societies for horticultural scientists. ASHS is committed to promoting and encouraging national and international interest in scientific research and education in all branches of horticulture.
Comprised of thousands of members worldwide, ASHS represents a broad cross-section of the horticultural community - scientists, educators, students, landscape and turf managers, government, extension agents and industry professionals. ASHS members focus on practices and problems in horticulture: breeding, propagation, production and management, harvesting, handling and storage, processing, marketing and use of horticultural plants and products. To learn more, visit ashs.org.
