Name: Ram Jade O.
Pandadagan Year & Section: BSABE 4B
ABS 413 – Plant and Livestock Systems and Environmental Control Engineering
Title of Study: Effects of LED and HPS lighting on the growth, seedling morphology and
yield of greenhouse tomatoes and cucumbers
Keywords: artificial lighting, transplants, plant growth, chlorophyll
Introduction
This study tackles about the role of greenhouse lighting, a critical determinant in the
cultivation of tomato and cucumber transplants, particularly during light-deprived winter
months. As essential contributors to leaf photosynthesis rates, plant growth, and yield
quality, supplementary lighting systems have garnered significant attention in recent
agricultural research (Gajc-Wolska et al., 2013; Hernández et al., 2016; Bantis et al., 2018).
Traditionally, high-pressure sodium lamps (HPS) were preferably used for lighting
tomato and cucumber seedlings (Kumar et al., 2016). However, recent times have seen the
rise of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) as a viable alternative in greenhouse seedling production
(Massa et al., 2008; Morrow, 2008). Experiments have explored the effects of supplemental
LED lighting on greenhouse-grown vegetables, with LEDs offering superior electrical
efficiency and photosynthetic efficacy compared to conventional sources (Olle & Viršile,
2013). By combining red (R) and blue (B) LEDs strategically, a spectral peak optimized for
photosynthesis and growth can be achieved (Yang, 2008). The LED's R/B ratio directly
influences photosynthesis and stem length (Hogewoning et al., 2010; Nanya et al., 2012).
Additionally, specific light wavelengths have distinct impacts on plant growth. Blue light
(400–500 nm) enhances leaf development and chlorophyll production while promoting
compact plant structures. In contrast, green light (500–600 nm) stimulates stem elongation
and looser plant forms. Far-red light (700–800 nm) encourages stem elongation, reduces
branching, influences flowering and root growth, and positively affects fruit yield (Głowacka,
2002).
With these considerations, this study was conducted to assess the effects of
supplementary lighting using the Sunray 300 LED lamps on the growth and development of
tomato and cucumber seedlings and evaluating the yield of mature plants. This study aims to
provide valuable insights into the comparative effects of LED and HPS lighting systems,
addressing a gap in the existing literature and validating the need for a comprehensive
exploration on one of the critical aspects of controlled environment agriculture (CEA).
Materials and Methods
Sampling Technique and Size
The study was conducted in an experimental greenhouse using tomato (cv. 'Altadena
F1') and cucumber (cv. 'Pacto F1') seedlings. Each treatment group consisted of thirty
plants, with the experiment conducted in three replications, totaling ninety plants per
treatment. The selection of these plant types and the sample size appears to be appropriate,
and the overall methods have been referenced well and the area is appropriate for the study.
Strengths and Weaknesses
This study has some strengths which includes the utilization of standardized lighting
conditions, nutrient solutions, and other controlled environmental parameters which ensures
the reliability of the results. It will also give a holistic evaluation of treatment effects since
there are multiple parameters were assessed. On the contrary, the assessment of root
systems using a 5-point scale lacks precision and might benefit from more objective
measurements or quantification.
Statistical Analysis
This study used a single-factor analysis of variance (ANOVA) to assess the
significance of the means. This statistical approach is appropriate for comparing multiple
treatment groups.
Results and Discussion
Plant Growth and Morphology
The result of this study shows no significant differences in the growth and
morphology of tomato and cucumber plants subjected to supplementary lighting with LED
and HPS lamps. Plants under both types of supplementary lighting exhibited desired
characteristics such as compact habits, rigid stems, short internodes, and intensely green
leaves, ensuring optimal root system development and early yield. However, control plants
without supplementary lighting displayed significantly inferior growth characteristics, being
shorter in height with smaller leaves and stem diameters. Fresh and dry weights of plants
under illumination did not significantly differ between LED and HPS lighting, but control
plants had significantly lower weights.
Chlorophyll Index
The chlorophyll index, indicative of plant nitrogen status and growth, showed the
highest values in plants illuminated with LED lamps, while the lowest values were observed
in plants without artificial lighting. The chlorophyll index varied under HPS lighting, with
differences between LED and HPS lighting varying by plant species and measurement date.
Yield
Supplementary lighting had a significant impact on tomato and cucumber yields.
Tomato plants under LED lighting yielded higher quantities of fruits in the first three harvests
compared to HPS lighting (almost 30% higher) and control (65% higher). Although
differences decreased over time, LED lighting still outperformed HPS lighting. Control plots
without supplementary lighting yielded the lowest tomato fruit yields. For cucumbers (Pacto
F1), early yields were similar for both LED and HPS lighting and control. Additional
illumination did not significantly affect marketable and total cucumber yields.
The discussion provided a descriptive account of the study's results without giving a
deeper interpretation. It mentions similarities to other studies but does not examine into
potential mechanisms or reasons behind the observed effects. This leaves room for
alternative interpretations of the findings.
