Vertical farming is a relatively new approach to growing crops on a mass scale indoors. Controlled environments are being created to provide the necessary light, water and humidity levels for optimum plant growth. Vertical and horizontal layers of a particular plant species are arranged on soilless shelves to maximize the interior space and the required resources.
One aspect of vertical farming sees the replacement of natural light with LED lights – red, blue and green. Some remarkable results have occurred with the experimentation of different light situations. Various recipes of colour combinations, length of exposure and light intensities have been found to impact a plant’s yield, flavour and nutritional content. The chart below outlines some of the results.
COLOUR WAVELENGTH EFFECT ON PLANTS
BLUE 400-500 nm Promotes vegetative growth, strong roots and sturdy leaves.
GREEN 500-570 nm Penetrates lower canopy, maximizing photosynthesis and leaf health.
RED 600-700 nm Crucial for flowering, fruiting and overall biomass accumulation.
FAR-RED 700-800 nm Influences stem elongation and flowering. Also enhances colour.