Improving microgreen production
Over a three-month period, trials were conducted at a Dutch client’s commercial greenhouse facility using LettUs Grow’s Aeroponic Rolling Bench™ (ARB) system. The trials aimed to determine whether Advanced Aeroponics could offer significant added value for cress production compared to standard cultivation methods.
Trial aims
Evaluating value of aeroponics
Our primary aim of these trials was to determine whether aeroponic cultivation techniques could offer significant added value for the production of cresses when compared to standard industry methods. By integrating the ARB product platform into existing greenhouse processes, the study sought to validate improvements in crop weight and height while identifying opportunities to reduce the total duration of the grow cycle.
Enhancing health and quality
A secondary objective focused on enhancing the health and quality of the microgreens by reducing the presence of common pests and pathogens. The trials specifically targeted a reduction in fly populations and the mitigation of mould formation, leveraging the unique drier substrate conditions provided by ultrasonic mist technology.
“Achieving results in 12 days that are comparable to a 14-day standard cycle makes this a very interesting proposition that we would prioritize over other systems.”
Key results
Increased biomass & harvest yields
The trials achieved an average weight per shoot that was 13% higher on the aeroponics table using cellulose media compared to the reference standard.
Accelerated growth cycles:
Advanced Aeroponics significantly reduced the total grow time, achieving results in 12 days that were comparable to the standard 14-day benchmark.
Superior root development:
Roots on the aeroponics tables were found to be longer, larger, and better developed than those on the reference tables.
Enhanced pest & disease management:
The aeroponic setup resulted in a roughly 75% reduction in flies and significantly less mould formation, likely due to the drier substrate surface.
Next steps
■
The validation trials have conclusively demonstrated that Advanced Aeroponics significantly improves the growth rate and quality of microgreens. The project will now focus on repeating the trials with a more rigorous methodology, specifically targeting the germination phase and operational optimization to reduce OpEx at scale.
Talk to us
Talk to one of our indoor farming experts to find out how we can incorporate Advanced Aeroponics into your next project.