Optimization production parameters and nutritional composition of select food crops produced under controlled environment, high density, continuous production

点击翻译按钮获取中文摘要

This project will integrate the full spectrum of the CESRF's controlled environment plant production expertise to advance the technology of vertical farming through the application of high density modular plant production hardware dubbed the "GravityFlow" system (Intravision Light Systems Inc.). It will provide a detailed assessment of production and quality of both a protein and fibre (bush bean) and a salad (romaine) commodity. By deploying precisely controlled environment conditions, especially light quality and nutrient management, we will be able to determine the effects of these variables on nutritional composition and the fate of secondary metabolites affecting taste, nutrient composition (e.g. protein, vitamins, fibre, carbohydrates) and other desirable attributes of these plants. The interactions between the photosynthetic spectral quality and the uptake and metabolism of mineral nutrients have yet to be determined, despite the profound influence that these interactions present. This project will represent a significant advance in understanding the critical environment variables in the management of high density plant production systems in controlled environment agriculture (indoor farming). In addition to developing and refining environment control protocols, we will also leverage our extensive background in irrigation water quality management to ensure that the root zone environment is optimized for these plant production systems. To varying degrees, all CEA crops are unique in terms of the suite of interacting and dynamic environment variables that make up the "optimal" production environment. These are the scientific, technical and market challenges that this project has been designed to address. Developing the knowledge and data required to produce a range of environmentally modified organisms (EMOs) that meet the identified market needs of CEA operations are the primary issues driving the research and technology transfer objectives of this project.