Published in Scientific Papers. Series B, Horticulture, Vol. LXVIV, Issue 2
Written by Emanuela COJOCARU (JERCA), Sovorn CHAN, Elena Maria DRĂGHICI
This research investigates the effects of culture conditions on the quality of 8 lettuce varieties grown in a Nutritive Film Technique (NFT) system under LED lighting. The NFT system, an advanced hydroponic method suitable for growing cycle leafy greens, offers commercial advantages while enhancing both the nutritional and biochemical value of crops. The main aim of this study was to evaluate the growth and development of lettuce varieties in the NFT system under controlled LED lighting conditions. The study was carried out within the Faculty of Horticulture, UASMV Bucharest, under LED lighting conditions, in the research space of the Plant Factory. Vertical farms, also known as plant factories, optimize agricultural production per unit area by arranging crops on multiple stacked levels. This method is particularly advantageous in urban environments, where space availability is limited. These facilities operate year-round, being weather-independent and ensuring constant production. Although they save space and water, they consume a lot of energy for lighting and climate control, increasing costs and environmental impact.
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