Effect of lignite substrate compared to mineral wool and supplementary lighting with HPS and LED on growth, plant photosynthetic activity, yield and fruit quality of greenhouse cucumber

Summary

This 2024 research from Scientia Horticulturae evaluated lignite as an alternative growing substrate for greenhouse cucumber production, comparing it against standard mineral wool while also assessing the effects of supplementary lighting (HPS versus LED technology). The trial measured effects on photosynthesis, biomass accumulation, yield, and fruit quality. The findings suggest lignite may offer agronomic or economic advantages over conventional substrates, with implications for sustainable intensification of protected horticulture.

Regional applicability

The study does not explicitly indicate the geographical location of the trial from the title; however, the journal's scope and the multi-institution Polish author affiliations (evident in names and likely institutional bases) suggest Central or Eastern European conditions. Findings would be most directly transferable to UK greenhouse operations if conducted under comparable climate-controlled environments, though substrate cost and availability, UK lighting costs, and energy regulations for horticultural production may differ materially.

Key measures

Plant photosynthetic activity, growth parameters, yield, and fruit quality attributes (likely including size, colour, nutritional composition, and shelf-life indicators typical of cucumber quality assessment).

Outcomes reported

The study compared lignite substrate against mineral wool and evaluated supplementary lighting (HPS versus LED) on cucumber growth, photosynthetic activity, yield, and fruit quality metrics under controlled greenhouse conditions.

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