A Novel Multilayer Cultivation Strategy Improves Light Utilization and Fruit Quality in Plant Factories for Tomato Production

Summary

Abstract Plant factories using artificial lighting are a promising solution to food security and urban agricultural challenges. However, cultivation of fruit-bearing crops such as tomatoes remains limited due to their high light demands, long growth periods, and tall plant structure. In this study, we aimed to develop an efficient cultivation system for tomatoes in a multilayer plant factory. Mini-tomatoes were hydroponically cultivated using white LEDs in a five-tier shelf system under two different cultivation methods. The conventional I-shaped method involved vertical growth on the top tier with downward lighting, while the novel S-shaped method trained each plant horizontally across the 2nd to 4th tiers with lateral lighting on each level. The S-shaped method enabled even light distrib