Abstract
We have developed a GREENBOX technology to facilitate growing crops in individual climate-controlled boxes (comprised of thermally insulated modular structure with artificial lighting source, hydroponic nutrient supply system, and environmental controls) in warehouse environments to combat challenges facing food security due to burgeoning populations and urbanization. Our experimental study focused on determining if these GREENBOX’s can provide environmental conditions for crops to grow year-round in mid-latitude climates, like that in Storrs, Connecticut, USA (location of study), and concurrently compared with growth in a greenhouse (glazed with glass, equipped with supplemental lighting, and fully controlled by an Argus Titan control system). We grew 48 heads of butterhead rex lettuce (Lactuca sativa) over a 30-day growing cycle, after a two-week seedling preparation period in two GREENBOX’s (4x6) and greenhouse (8x6). We quantified crop growth with biomass data (wet weight, dry weight, plant total leaf area, and projected leaf area index) using destructive and non-destructive (image processing) techniques. Environmental data, including light, temperature, relative humidity, and carbon dioxide concentrations, were collected and processed to 15-minute averages for analysis along with a lysimeter (water consumption) in the GREENBOX’s and greenhouse over four seasons. Both locations provided the required environment for crop growth. The environmental variables were within the optimum range; however, the GREENBOX environment was primarily independent of the natural weather and consequently much less variable. Environmental regulation, biomass production, and resources use efficiency were more advantageous in a GREENBOX than a greenhouse.
Presenters
Ankit SinghStudent, Doctor of Philosophy, University of Connecticut, Connecticut, United States
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
KEYWORDS
Agricultural facility, Environmental control, GREENBOX, Lettuce, Urban agriculture
