28 September 2026
Thanet Earth will install a Philips LED lighting system across 26 hectares for winter cucumber production in the fourth quarter of 2026. Luminaires equipped with a far-red spectral channel and dynamic dimming ensure controlled crop balance. We analyze the engineering specifics of the project, greenhouse heat balance transformation when replacing HPS lamps with LEDs, and practical upgrade steps for agronomic and engineering teams.
More: Transitioning 26 Hectares of Cucumbers to LED: Spectrum and Microclimate Challenges
28 September 2026
Gavita International and HAS Green Academy have launched a study investigating the effects of LED light spectra on flower initiation and yield in everbearing strawberries. The first results are expected in early 2027. We analyze why continuous flower induction remains a complex challenge in berry greenhouses, how to approach LED fixture selection before final data is published, and which microclimate and lighting control parameters agronomists and greenhouse engineers should consider.
More: Supplemental Light Spectra and Flower Initiation in Everbearing Strawberries
25 September 2026
We examine the feasibility of upgrading LED supplemental lighting with multi-channel control and sensors. Unlike single-channel fixtures that only allow intensity adjustments, multi-channel luminaires adjust spectral ratios to the growth stage but require continuous instrumental monitoring of light composition and PAR. Written for head agronomists, engineers, and facility designers, this article evaluates engineering risks, control architecture, and the viability of dynamic spectrum in protected cultivation.
More: Multi-Channel LED Grow Lights: Spectrum Sensors and Greenhouse Automation
23 September 2026
Switching to winter LED supplemental lighting in tomatoes causes persistent green blotches on fruit due to reduced transpiration and nutrient transport deficits. Research by HortiTech demonstrated that direct kilowatt-hour energy savings without adjusting greenhouse thermal balance cause hidden quality defects, especially in hybrids weighing around 150 grams. We analyze the physiological mechanism behind this disorder and trial results of active ventilation systems designed to restore plant evaporation.
More: LED Retrofits in Winter Tomato Crops: Why Fruit Quality Drops
21 September 2026
An analysis of scientific data on lettuce physiological response to increased PPFD levels and dynamic step-up lighting strategies across growth stages. We examine experimental findings on fresh and dry biomass accumulation, light use efficiency decline under continuous high photon flux, and the advantages of a 250→250→350 μmol/(m²·s) dynamic regime. This review is tailored for head growers and greenhouse lighting engineers evaluating retrofit economics and lighting design norms.
More: Increasing Lettuce Supplemental Lighting: Diminishing Returns and Dynamic Strategies
19 September 2026
In greenhouse operations, monitoring the spectral distribution of horticultural luminaires has traditionally required laboratory measurements in an integrating sphere or contracting external audit services. The release of the LX1400 PAR portable spectrometer from Dutch supplier Nieuwkoop simplifies on-site diagnostics of lighting installations. We examine the practical tasks addressed by the mobile device during incoming inspection and dynamic lighting monitoring, compare rapid field measurements with laboratory testing, and outline a protocol for chief engineers to audit LED equipment.
More: Monitoring LED Spectrum and Degradation: On-Site Rapid Analysis in Greenhouses
17 September 2026
A review of a study in Frontiers in Plant Science (2025) on the interaction of photoperiod, light intensity, spectrum, and temperature in Rex lettuce. Researchers proved that at a constant DLI of 13 mol/(m²·d) and 0% far-red light, combining moderate PPFD, an extended photoperiod, and higher temperatures accelerates leaf area expansion and photon capture (r² = 0.93). The article explains how agronomists and engineers can use these findings to lower connected load and optimize lighting schedules across electricity tariff zones.
More: Long Photoperiod and Moderate PPFD: Optimizing Lettuce Lighting
17 September 2026
Researchers from Wageningen University investigated the effect of LED supplemental light spectrum on the yield of greenhouse lettuce. The trial compared four spectral treatments with red light fractions ranging from 38% to 95% at a constant PPFD of 200 μmol/(m²·s). We review biomass measurements, deep-water culture methodology, and practical insights for commercial greenhouse operations aimed at reducing electricity consumption and production costs.
More: Effect of Red Light Fraction in LED Supplemental Lighting on Greenhouse Lettuce Yield
