Comparison of Light-emitting Diode and High-pressure Sodium Light Treatments for Hydroponics Growth of Boston Lettuce

Abstract

Recent irradiance level improvements in light-emitting diode (LED) technology has allowed this equipment to compete as suitable replacements to traditional high-pressure sodium (HPS) lamps in hydroponics growth environments. The current study compares LED and HPS lighting technologies for supplemental lighting in a greenhouse at HydroSerre Mirabel (Mirabel, Quebec, Canada) for the growth of Boston lettuce (Lactuca sativa var. capitata). The light treatments were applied for 2 hours before sunset and 8.5 hours after sunset to extend the photoperiod to 18 hours. An average total light irradiance (natural and supplemental) of 71.3 mol·m−2 for HPS and 35.8 mol·m−2 for LED were recorded over the 4 weeks of each experimental run. Wet and dry biomass of the shoots was recorded. On average, HPS light treatments produced significantly similar shoot biomass compared with LED light treatment, although the LED lamps provided roughly half the amount of supplemental light compared with the HPS lamps during the 4 weeks of the experimental treatment. Analysis of the lettuce samples showed no significant difference in concentrations of β-carotene, chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, neoxanthin, lutein, and antheraxanthin among the light treatments; however, violaxanthin concentrations showed a statistical difference resulting from light treatment. When measured on an energy basis, the LED lamps provide an energy savings of at least 33.8% and the minimal “regular” HPS provided an energy savings of 77.8% over the HPS treatment.