LED lighting for improved quality of plants
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | HELIOSPECTRA AB (PUBL) - HELIOSPECTRA AB |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 458 056 |
| Project duration | January 2016 - January 2017 |
| Status | Completed |
Purpose and goal
The purpose was to study how different light treatments can affect bioactive substances and volatile compounds in herbs and lettuces. The plants were grown under LED light in an indoor facility and in a greenhouse for improvement of flavor and nutritional properties. LED exposed plants were compared also with plants grown under traditional light (HPS). The results showed that the use of LEDs and that the optimization of the wavelength and light intensity are promising for the cultivation of plants with good flavor and nutritional properties.
Expected results and effects
The results indicated that exposure to different light treatments during the cultivation can affect the production of aromatic compounds in the studied plants. Analysis of the content of vitamin C and phenolic substances in plants showed that the choice of wavelengths (light quality) can affect the levels of these substances. The responses varied between plant´s species.
Planned approach and implementation
The content of volatile compounds was analyzed by gas chromatography. The main aromatic compounds of basil, dill and lettuce were identified, characterized and quantified. Total content of phenolic compounds was assayed by spectrophotometry and vitamin C with liquid chromatography. Additionally, the plants were weighed and their growth characteristics were described.