Working under the spotlights

Our experiments with the salads growing under the lights continue, but there is something that has become apparent, the effect on their germination is fantastic.

Both the brassicas and the watercress present what must be close to 100% take up, which is far more successful than germination in outside conditions.

However the vertical growth is not quite there yet, whilst the trays are shooting upwards, the seedlings could be considered as a bit too keen...

Compared to those grown in outside conditions, (below), they are a little leggy and irregular, (above), without the consistent, dome forming regularity of leaf cover.

This can be seen from both the side profile and also from above, the photo below demonstrates the cushion effect that is typically achieved in outside conditions, (top), compared to the irregular growth pattern, (below) currently achieved under the lights.

Our experiments continue and we are working with the light manufacturers GN UK Ltd to perfect the growing conditions. This includes altering the distance from the lights, changing the time for which we operate the lights and also the type of light used which includes the combination of different light colours, which affects different aspects of the growth. All exciting stuff and a very steep learning curve, but really looking forward to perfecting the approach so we can maximise the potential of our new facility.