VEGETAL GROW DEVELOPMENT
Light audit horticultural: Optimize LED lighting for high-performance crops
Understanding the Horticultural Light Audit: Definition of an optimal system for plants
Importance of Light in plant growth
Objectives of the Horticultural Light Audit
VEGETAL GROW DEVELOPMENT
Horticultural Light Audit Methods
Light Intensity Measurement
The first step generally involves measuring light intensity, whether natural and/or artificial . This can be done using various technologies, such as lux meters, pyranometers, photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) sensors, or spectroradiometers. These measurements provide data on the quantity of light received, but not on its quality. Among these sensors, only the PAR sensor and the spectroradiometer allow for specialized quantitative measurements of plant material.
Light Spectrum Analysis
Analyzing the light spectrum is essential for understanding the quality of the light supplied . Spectroradiometers are used to break down the light spectrum into its different wavelengths, thus identifying the areas of the spectrum that are most beneficial for photosynthesis and other processes important for a crop. Quality is a crucial component of the audit because providing the right amount of light ensures an optimal overall production system. For example, a horticultural spectrum reflected at 100 µmol/m²/s is better than a standard 4000K white spectrum used for office lighting (or even fluorescent tubes or HPS lamps) at 200 µmol/m²/s.
Light collection tools and devices
VGD has developed an automated spectroradiometer that can be deployed to monitor lighting conditions in real time using proprietary software . This service is provided by sensors that continuously record data on light intensity, spectral quality, and illumination duration, thus facilitating the monitoring and dynamic adjustment of lighting parameters. The spectroradiometers have sufficient accuracy for fine-tuning and precise control of lighting parameters.
Modeling and Simulation
Modeling and simulation tools can be used to predict ideal lighting conditions based on the specific needs of the crop . These models take into account factors such as geographical location, season, and crop type.
The use of a fixed spectroradiometer makes it possible to report data but also to control lighting solutions, if necessary, depending on the objective to be achieved by modulating lighting.
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VEGETAL GROW DEVELOPMENT
The Benefits of Horticultural Light Audit
It's important to remember that a growing environment doesn't depend on a single parameter . Therefore, our teams are trained and experienced enough to guide you on technical choices regarding air distribution, heat, cooling, fertilization, irrigation, and other factors.
Optimization of Growth and Yield
By understanding the specific light requirements of each crop , growers can adjust lighting parameters to optimize growth and yield. This results in more efficient resource use and increased production . Light conditions are considered throughout the entire production system (temperature, humidity, etc.) to ensure the best possible expertise.
Energy savings
Horticultural lighting audits help identify potential energy inefficiencies , enabling producers to choose more energy-efficient light sources and implement more sustainable lighting practices, sometimes with the help of complete and monitored solutions.
Improvement in Harvest Quality
High-quality light not only promotes growth but also improves harvest quality . Optimal colors, flavors, and nutrients can be achieved by adjusting lighting conditions to meet the specific needs of each plant.
Reduction of Disease Risks
Adequate lighting contributes to creating an environment conducive to plant health . By minimizing shaded areas and promoting vigorous growth, the risks of fungal or bacterial diseases are reduced.
Environmental Sustainability
By adopting more efficient professional lighting practices and reducing energy consumption, horticultural lighting audits contribute to the environmental sustainability of the horticultural industry . This aligns with growing concerns regarding environmental responsibility.
Conclusion
In addition to training on light and plants , this horticultural light audit service is emerging as an essential tool in the arsenal of modern producers. By understanding and optimizing lighting conditions, farmers can significantly improve growth.
Among the existing sensors for analyzing light, to date, spectroradiometers with conversion of Watts into µmol/m²/s (useful photons) are the most precise and effective in order to carry out measurements of your horticultural lighting installations, whether for a one-off or continuous audit.
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Our answers
The audit makes it possible to carry out an inventory of the lighting conditions used. It allows you to highlight problems with installations or possible optimizations.
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