DEVICE AND A METHOD FOR ILLUMINATING AND GROWING TOMATO PLANTS IN CONFINED SPACES WITHOUT NATURAL LIGHT AND IN GREENHOUSE CONDITIONS

Abstract

A device for illuminating tomato plants in confined spaces without natural light and in greenhouse conditions. The device has a tight housing formed as a radiator, RGB (Red, Green, Blue) Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) fitted within the tight housing and connected to an electronic power supply system indirectly via a spectroradiometer. The LEDs have adjustable power at least between 160 ?mol/m.sup.2s to 200 ?mol/m.sup.2s. The LEDs are electroluminescent LEDs with a light band that includes violet and blue regions with wavelengths of 400 to 500 nm, red and far red regions with wavelengths of 600 to 800 nm and/or green spectral regions with wavelengths of 500 to 600 nm.

Claims

1. A method for illuminating and growing tomato plants in confined spaces without natural light and in greenhouse conditions, the method comprising: equipping a breeding/growing facility with a ventilation system and environmental sensors to monitor at least a temperature and a humidity; setting the temperature of the growing facility so that it is between 24 and 26? C. during a day and 20-22? C. at a night, setting the humidity so that it is between 50 and 60%, during growth of the plants, illuminating the plants by means of a light fixture comprising Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) for at least 16 hours per 24 hours, so that at least one tomato plant is illuminated in each phase of development (including the seed phase), by maintaining light intensity not lower than 160 ?mol/m.sup.2/s for 16 hours and adjusting light spectrum to the phase of plant growth so that a red to blue light ratio (R:B) is at least 1.70?0.15, conducting farming in the vegetative phase so that: PAR both in indoor and greenhouse farming, maintaining illumination of 160 ?mol/m.sup.2s for 16 hours per 24 hours on top surfaces of plant leaves, determining current light demand using a PAR sensor and a spectroradiometer, and adjusting lighting intensity and spectral composition automatically using dedicated software, during the vegetative phase in a farming tent, maintaining a spectrum consisting of white light with peak emissions of artificial blue light and artificial red light for 15 to 17 hours per 24 hours, preferably for 16 hours per 24 hours, and maintaining the red to blue light ratio (R:B) at 2.4?15% conducting farming in the generative growth phase so that: PAR both in indoor and greenhouse farming, maintaining light intensity of 200 ?mol/m.sup.2s on top surfaces of plant leaves for 15 to 17 hours per 24 hours, preferably for 16 hours per 24 hours, continuously monitoring, by means of the PAR sensor, PAR values delivered to the plants both from the light fixtures and from sunlight, and adjusting the PAR value delivered to the plants from the light fixtures to ambient conditions using software so that the total of sunlight and supplemental light is 200 ?mol/m.sup.2s at the top plant leaves, during the generative phase in a farming tent, maintaining a spectrum consisting of white light with peak emissions of artificial blue light and artificial red light for 16 hours per 24 hours, and maintaining the red to blue light ratio (R:B) at 2.40?0.15, and during the generative phase in a greenhouse, supplementing natural sunlight with the light fixture for 15 to 17 hours per 24 hours, preferably for 16 hours per 24 hours, so as to obtain a spectrum consisting of white light with blue and red peaks, with the red to blue light ratio of 10.00?0.15, and, by means of the PAR sensor, continuously monitoring a PAR value delivered to plants, wherein the PAR value delivered to plants from the light fixtures is adjusted by means of a digital machine so that the total sunlight and supplemental light is 160 ?mol/m.sup.2s at the top plant leaves, and wherein the light fixture is fitted with a spectroradiometer to adjust the light spectrum to weather conditions in real time using software, so as to maintain a constant light spectrum throughout the growth phase irrespective of the current ambient conditions.

2. The method according to claim 1, comprising controlling the temperature and the humidity using an air conditioner, and further comprising, when the humidity drops below 50%, spraying the plants with water or an aqueous solution of a foliar fertilizer.

3. The method according to claim 1, comprising: breeding the plants on a mineral wool, watering the plants with water having a pH value of 4.5 to 5.25, preferably 4.8, fertilizing the plants with a 0.2%?0.15 fertilizer solution having a composition listed in Table C.1 and a pH value of 4.8, EC of 2.60 mS/cm, in the vegetative phase and throughout the generative phase, watering the plants with a calcium and magnesium supplement having a composition listed in Table C.2, using a dosage of: between 0.5 and 2 mL/1 L water, preferably 1 mL/1 L water, once per week, foliar spraying the plants with a 15 to 20%, preferably 17% calcium nitrate solution and a supplemental fertilizer having a composition listed in Table C.3, using a dosage of: 2 mL/1 L water?0.5 ?L/L water. TABLE-US-00041 TABLE C.1 Percentage content of components in the fertilizer used in tomato farming. Component Content [%] N 8.2 MgO 2.8 Cu 0.01 Mo 0.003 P.sub.2O.sub.5 11.5 SO.sub.3 5.7 Fe 0.23 Zn 0.03 K.sub.2O 36.1 B 0.04 Mn 0.14 TABLE-US-00042 TABLE C.2 Percentage content of components in the calcium and magnesium supplement used in tomato farming. Component Content [%] Total nitrogen 5.9 Nitrate nitrogen 5.1 Amide nitrogen 0.8 Calcium oxide 6.8 Magnesium oxide 2.4 TABLE-US-00043 TABLE C.3 Percentage content of components in the supplemental fertilizer in tomato farming. Component Content [%] N 3.5 Cu 0.002 Mo 0.001 P.sub.2O.sub.5 4.0 Fe 0.04 Zn 0.002 K.sub.2O 7.5 B 0.01 Mn 0.01

4. A device for illuminating tomato plants in confined spaces without natural light and in greenhouse conditions, the device comprising a tight housing formed as a radiator, RGB (Red, Green, Blue) Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) fitted within the tight housing and connected to an electronic power supply system indirectly via a spectroradiometer, wherein the LEDs have adjustable power at least between 160 ?mol/m.sup.2s to 200 ?mol/m.sup.2s, and wherein the LEDs are electroluminescent LEDs with a light band that includes violet and blue regions with wavelengths of 400 to 500 nm, red and far red regions with wavelengths of 600 to 800 nm and/or green spectral regions with wavelengths of 500 to 600 nm.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

Example 1Greenhouse Farming

[0045] In the method for illuminating and farming tomato plants in confined spaces without natural light and in greenhouse conditions as presented herein, the breeding/growing facility is equipped with a ventilation system and environmental sensors to monitor temperature and humidity. The temperature of the growing facility is set so that it is between 24 and 26? C. during the day and 20-22? C. at night, and the humidity is set so that it is in a range of 50-60%. Temperature and humidity control is executed using an air conditioner, wherein plants are sprayed with water when the humidity drops below 50%.

[0046] For soilless farming in mineral wool, plants are watered with water having a pH of 4.8 and fertilized with 0.2%?0.15 fertilizer solution with composition listed in Table 1.1 and a pH value of 4.8; EC 2.60 mS/cm. In addition, a calcium and magnesium supplement is used for watering in the vegetative phase and throughout the generative phase, with composition listed in Table 1.2 and a dosage of 1 mL/1 L water. Foliar spraying of plants is performed once a week with 17% calcium nitrate solution and a supplemental fertilizer with composition listed in Table 1.3; dosage: 2 mL/1 L water, ?0.5 ?L/L water.

TABLE-US-00009 TABLE 1.1 The percentage content of components in the fertilizer used in tomato farming. Component Content [%] N 8.2 MgO 2.8 Cu 0.01 Mo 0.003 P.sub.2O.sub.5 11.5 SO.sub.3 5.7 Fe 0.23 Zn 0.03 K.sub.2O 36.1 B 0.04 Mn 0.14

TABLE-US-00010 TABLE 1.2 The percentage content of components in the calcium and magnesium supplement used in tomato farming. Component Content [%] Total nitrogen 5.9 Nitrate nitrogen 5.1 Amide nitrogen 0.8 Calcium oxide 6.8 Magnesium oxide 2.4

TABLE-US-00011 TABLE 1.3 The percentage content of components in the supplemental fertilizer in tomato farming. Component Content [%] N 3.5 Cu 0.002 Mo 0.001 P.sub.2O.sub.5 4.0 Fe 0.04 Zn 0.002 K.sub.2O 7.5 B 0.01 Mn 0.01

[0047] During plant growth, the plants are illuminated with a light fixture fitted with LEDs for 16 hours per 24 hours, so that at least one tomato plant is illuminated in each phase of development (including the seed), while light intensity not lower than 160 ?mol/m.sup.2s is maintained for 16 hours and a spectrum adjusted to the phase of plant growth so that the red to blue light ratio (Red to Blue; R:B) is at least 1.70?0.15.

[0048] The light in the method of the invention may be used in lower doses during sunny days in the greenhouse and in higher doses when sunlight is insufficient. The current light demand is determined using a PAR sensor and a spectroradiometer. Lighting intensity and spectral composition are adjusted automatically using specially designed software.

[0049] In the vegetative phase, farming is conducted so that:

III. PAR

[0050] Both in indoor and in greenhouse farming, illumination of 160 ?mol/m.sup.2s for 16 hours per 24 hours is maintained on the top surfaces of plant leaves.

[0051] The PAR value delivered to plants both from light fixtures and from sunlight is continuously monitored using a PAR sensor. The PAR value delivered to plants from fixtures is adjusted to ambient conditions using a digital machine so that the total of sunlight and supplemental light is 160 ?mol/m.sup.2s at the top plant leaves. The light fixture is fitted with a spectroradiometer used with software to adjust the light spectrum to current weather conditions in real time so that a constant light spectrum is maintained throughout the growth phase irrespective of the current ambient conditions.

[0052] When the detected value is too low, the PAR sensor automatically increases fixture power. When the PAR value is too high, the fixture power is automatically reduced.

IV. Spectrum

[0053] During the vegetative phase in a greenhouse, natural sunlight is supplemented for 16 hours per 24 hours so as to finally obtain the aforementioned spectrum, that is, white light with blue and red peaks; R:B 1.70?0.15.

[0054] The following was found when observing the effectiveness and action of the method for tomato farming during the vegetative phase without natural light of the invention: [0055] 5% more leaves compared to plants farmed under a control lamp (HPS), [0056] 43% power savings compared to farming under an HPS lamp, [0057] 22% greater leaf area compared to farming under an HPS lamp.

TABLE-US-00012 TABLE 1.4 Comparison of light source parameters and characteristics of farmed plants. Average Energy used number of Total Fixture for 16 h of leaves leaf area power illumination Illumination [items] [cm.sup.2] [W] [kWh] Light fixture with 10.5 8140 160 2.56 an LED spectrum until the vegetative phase HPS 10 6661 280 4.48

[0058] In the generative growth phase, farming is conducted so that:

3. PAR

[0059] Light intensity of 200 ?mol/m.sup.2s for 16 hours per 24 hours is maintained on the top surfaces of plant leaves.

[0060] The PAR value delivered to plants both from light fixtures and from sunlight is continuously monitored using a PAR sensor. The PAR value delivered to plants from fixtures is adjusted to ambient conditions using software so that the total of sunlight and supplemental light is 200 ?mol/m.sup.2s at the top plant leaves. The light fixture is fitted with a spectroradiometer to automatically adjust the light spectrum to current weather conditions in real time so that a constant light spectrum is maintained throughout the growth phase irrespective of the current ambient conditions.

[0061] When the detected value is too low, the PAR sensor automatically increases fixture power. When the PAR value is too high, the fixture power is automatically reduced.

4. Spectrum

[0062] During the generative phase in a greenhouse, natural sunlight is supplemented with a light fixture for 16 hours per 24 hours, so that as a result, a spectrum consisting of white light with blue and red peaks is obtained, with a red to blue light ratio of 10.00?0.15.

[0063] The light spectrum in greenhouse farming is continuously monitored using a spectroradiometer. The spectroradiometer continuously supplements any missing wavelengths so that a constant spectrum is maintained throughout the generative phase.

[0064] The invention, using the function of adaptation of the PAR value and spectral composition, achieves a shorter plant growth cycle and increases the yield and quality of produce, thus improving the effectiveness of the tomato production process and reducing power consumption.

[0065] The following was found when observing the effectiveness and action of the method for tomato farming during the generative phase without natural light of the invention: [0066] power consumption decreased by 54%, [0067] the weight of tomatoes produced from 1 W using the aforementioned spectrum was 134% higher compared to a control lamp (HPS), [0068] 6% more tomatoes on average were obtained from one plant farmed using the aforementioned spectrum compared to plants farmed using a control lamp (HPS), [0069] the average weight of a single tomato was 17% greater with the aforementioned spectrum compared to the HPS lamp, [0070] the total weight of tomatoes with footstalks produced by one plant was 21% higher compared to results under the HPS lamp, [0071] the content of reducing sugars in tomatoes harvested from the aforementioned spectrum was 30% higher compared to HPS, [0072] vitamin C content in tomatoes was 7% higher compared to fruit harvested under the HPS lamp, [0073] lycopene content in tomatoes was 4% higher compared to fruit harvested under the HPS lamp.

TABLE-US-00013 TABLE 1.5 Comparison of power consumption between the spectrum being part of the invention and commonly used HPS greenhouse lighting. Fixture Energy used power for 16 h of Illumination [W] illumination [kWh] Light fixture with an 129 2.06 LED spectrum until the vegetative phase HPS 280 4.48

TABLE-US-00014 TABLE 1.6 Comparison of results obtained with the spectrum being part of the invention and commonly used HPS greenhouse lighting. Weight of Number of Total weight tomatoes tomatoes Average of tomatoes produced per one weight of with footstalks from 1 W plant one tomato produced by Illumination [g/W] [items] [g] one plant [g] Light fixture with 10.67 17 82 1377 an LED spectrum until the generative phase HPS 4.55 16 70 1138

TABLE-US-00015 TABLE 1.7 Comparison of biochemical parameters obtained with the spectrum being part of the invention and commonly used HPS greenhouse lighting. Content of Vitamin C reducing sugars content [mg/ Lycopene [mg/mL tomato 100 mL tomato content Illumination extract] extract] [mg/kg] Light fixture with an 1.99 11.39 68.74 LED spectrum until the generative phase HPS 1.53 10.65 66.25

[0074] 1 The following was found when observing the effectiveness and action of the method for tomato farming during the phase in greenhouse conditions of the invention: [0075] power savings of 20% compared to standard greenhouse lighting, [0076] the total of tomatoes harvested from plants additionally illuminated using the aforementioned spectrum was 13% greater than the total of tomatoes harvested from plants additionally illuminated with HPS lamps.

TABLE-US-00016 TABLE 1.8 Comparison of results obtained with the spectrum being part of the invention and commonly used HPS greenhouse lighting. Energy used during 16 h of Total Actual power additional tomatoes of a single illumination harvested light fixture (20 light fixtures) Illumination [kg] [W] [kWh] Light fixture with an 697.18 585 187.2 LED spectrum until the generative phase HPS 619.70 730 233.6

[0077] A device for illuminating tomato plants in confined spaces without natural light and in greenhouse conditions contains a housing formed as a radiator, having known means to ensure its tightness, in which LEDs in the RGB system are fitted, connected to a known electronic power supply system indirectly through a spectroradiometer. The LEDs have adjustable power ranging from 160 ?mol/m.sup.2s to 200 ?mol/m.sup.2s. Electroluminescent LEDs used in the fixture are selected so that the light band includes violet and blue regions with wavelengths of 400-500 nm, red and far red regions with wavelengths of 600-800 nm and/or green spectral regions with wavelengths of 500-600 nm.

Example 2Farming in Confined Spaces without Natural LightIndoor Farming

[0078] In the method for illuminating and breeding tomato plants in confined spaces without natural light as presented herein, the breeding/growing facility is equipped with a ventilation system and environmental sensors to monitor temperature and humidity. The temperature of the growing facility is set so that it is between 24 and 26? C. during the day and 20-22? C. at night, and the humidity is set so that it is in a range of 50-60%. Temperature and humidity control is executed using an air conditioner, wherein plants are sprayed with water when the humidity drops below 50%.

[0079] For soilless farming in mineral wool, plants are watered with water having a pH of 4.8 and fertilized with 0.2%?0.15 fertilizer solution with composition listed in Table 2.1 and a pH value of 4.8; EC 2.60 mS/cm. In addition, a calcium and magnesium supplement is used for watering in the vegetative phase and throughout the generative phase, with composition listed in Table 2.2 and a dosage of 1 mL/1 L water. Foliar spraying of plants is performed once a week with 17% calcium nitrate solution and a supplemental fertilizer with composition listed in Table 2.3; dosage: 2 mL/1 L water, ?0.5 ?L/L water.

TABLE-US-00017 TABLE 2.1 The percentage content of components in the fertilizer used in tomato farming. Component Content [%] N 8.2 MgO 2.8 Cu 0.01 Mo 0.003 P.sub.2O.sub.5 11.5 SO.sub.3 5.7 Fe 0.23 Zn 0.03 K.sub.2O 36.1 B 0.04 Mn 0.14

TABLE-US-00018 TABLE 2.2 The percentage content of components in the calcium and magnesium supplement used in tomato farming. Component Content [%] Total nitrogen 5.9 Nitrate nitrogen 5.1 Amide nitrogen 0.8 Calcium oxide 6.8 Magnesium oxide 2.4

TABLE-US-00019 TABLE 2.3 The percentage content of components in the supplemental fertilizer in tomato farming. Component Content [%] N 3.5 Cu 0.002 Mo 0.001 P.sub.2O.sub.5 4.0 Fe 0.04 Zn 0.002 K.sub.2O 7.5 B 0.01 Mn 0.01

[0080] During plant growth, the plants are illuminated with a light fixture fitted with LEDs for 16 hours per 24 hours, so that at least one tomato plant is illuminated in each phase of development (including the seed), while light intensity not lower than 160 ?mol/m.sup.2s is maintained for 16 hours and a spectrum adjusted to the phase of plant growth so that the red to blue light ratio (Red to Blue; R:B) is at least 1.70?0.15.

[0081] The light in the method of the invention may be used in lower doses during sunny days in the greenhouse and in higher doses when sunlight is insufficient. The current light demand is determined using a PAR sensor and a spectroradiometer. Lighting intensity and spectral composition are adjusted automatically using specially designed software.

[0082] In the vegetative phase, farming is conducted so that:

V. PAR

[0083] Both in indoor and in greenhouse farming, illumination of 160 ?mol/m.sup.2s for 16 hours per 24 hours is maintained on the top surfaces of plant leaves.

[0084] The PAR value delivered to plants from light fixtures is continuously monitored using a PAR sensor. The PAR value delivered to plants from fixtures is adjusted using a digital machine so that the total supplemental light is 160 ?mol/m.sup.2s at the top plant leaves. The light fixture is fitted with a spectroradiometer used with software to adjust the light spectrum to current conditions in real time so that a constant light spectrum is maintained throughout the growth phase.

[0085] When the detected value is too low, the PAR sensor automatically increases fixture power. When the PAR value is too high, the fixture power is automatically reduced.

VI. Spectrum

[0086] During the vegetative phase in a farming tent, a spectrum consisting of white light with peak emissions of artificial blue light and artificial red light is maintained for 16 hours per 24 hours. The red to blue light ratio (Red to Blue; R:B) is 1.70?0.15.

[0087] The following was found when observing the effectiveness and action of the method for tomato farming during the vegetative phase without natural light of the invention: [0088] 5% more leaves compared to plants grown under a control lamp (HPS), [0089] 43% power savings compared to farming under an HPS lamp, [0090] 22% greater leaf area compared to farming under an HPS lamp.

TABLE-US-00020 TABLE 2.4 Comparison of light source parameters and characteristics of farmed plants. Average Energy used number of Total Fixture for 16 h of leaves leaf area power illumination Illumination [items] [cm.sup.2] [W] [kWh] Light fixture with 10.5 8140 160 2.56 an LED spectrum until the vegetative phase HPS 10 6661 280 4.48

[0091] In the generative growth phase, farming is conducted so that:

5. PAR

[0092] Light intensity of 200 ?mol/m.sup.2s for 16 hours per 24 hours is maintained on the top surfaces of plant leaves, and the PAR sensor continuously monitors the PAR values delivered to plants from light fixtures. The PAR value delivered to plants from fixtures is adjusted to farming conditions using software so that the total supplemental light is 200 ?mol/m.sup.2s at the top plant leaves. The light fixture is fitted with a spectroradiometer to automatically adjust the light spectrum to current lighting conditions in real time so that a constant light spectrum is maintained throughout the growth phase.

[0093] When the detected value is too low, the PAR sensor automatically increases fixture power. When the PAR value is too high, the fixture power is automatically reduced.

6. Spectrum

[0094] During the generative phase in a farming tent, a spectrum consisting of white light with peak emissions of artificial blue light and artificial red light is maintained for 16 hours per 24 hours. The red to blue light ratio (Red to Blue; R:B) is 2.40?0.15.

[0095] The invention, using the function of adaptation of the PAR value and spectral composition, achieves a shorter plant growth cycle and increases the yield and quality of produce, thus improving the effectiveness of the tomato production process and reducing power consumption.

[0096] The following was found when observing the effectiveness and action of the method for tomato farming during the generative phase without natural light of the invention: [0097] power consumption decreased by 54%, [0098] the weight of tomatoes produced from 1 W using the aforementioned spectrum was 134% higher compared to a control lamp (HPS), [0099] 6% more tomatoes on average were obtained from one plant farmed using the aforementioned spectrum compared to plants farmed using a control lamp (HPS), [0100] the average weight of a single tomato was 17% greater with the aforementioned spectrum compared to the HPS lamp, [0101] the total weight of tomatoes with footstalks produced by one plant was 21% higher compared to results under the HPS lamp, [0102] the content of reducing sugars in tomatoes harvested from the aforementioned spectrum was 30% higher compared to HPS, [0103] vitamin C content in tomatoes was 7% higher compared to fruit harvested under the HPS lamp, [0104] lycopene content in tomatoes was 4% higher compared to fruit harvested under the HPS lamp.

TABLE-US-00021 TABLE 2.5 Comparison of power consumption between the spectrum being part of the invention and commonly used HPS greenhouse lighting. Fixture Energy used power for 16 h of Illumination [W] illumination [kWh] Light fixture with 129 2.06 an LED spectrum until the vegetative phase HPS 280 4.48

TABLE-US-00022 TABLE 2.6 Comparison of results obtained with the spectrum being part of the invention and commonly used HPS greenhouse lighting. Weight of Number of Average Total weight tomatoes tomatoes weight of tomatoes produced per one of one with footstalks from 1 W plant tomato produced by Illumination [g/W] [items] [g] one plant [g] Light fixture with 10.67 17 82 1377 an LED spectrum until the generative phase HPS 4.55 16 70 1138

TABLE-US-00023 TABLE 2.7 Comparison of biochemical parameters obtained with the spectrum being part of the invention and commonly used HPS greenhouse lighting. Content of Vitamin C reducing sugars content [mg/ Lycopene [mg/mL tomato 100 mL tomato content Illumination extract] extract] [mg/kg] Light fixture with an 1.99 11.39 68.74 LED spectrum until the generative phase HPS 1.53 10.65 66.25

[0105] The following was found when observing the effectiveness and action of the method for tomato farming during the phase in greenhouse conditions of the invention: [0106] power savings of 20% compared to standard greenhouse lighting, [0107] the total of tomatoes harvested from plants additionally illuminated using the aforementioned spectrum was 13% greater than the total of tomatoes harvested from plants additionally illuminated with HPS lamps.

TABLE-US-00024 TABLE 2.8 Comparison of results obtained with the spectrum being part of the invention and commonly used HPS greenhouse lighting. Energy used during 16 h of Total Actual power additional tomatoes of a single illumination harvested light fixture (20 light fixtures) Illumination [kg] [W] [kWh] Light fixture with an 697.18 585 187.2 LED spectrum until the generative phase HPS 619.70 730 233.6

[0108] A device for illuminating tomato plants in confined spaces without natural light and in greenhouse conditions contains a housing formed as a radiator, having known means to ensure its tightness, in which LEDs in the RGB system are fitted, connected to a known electronic power supply system indirectly through a spectroradiometer. The LEDs have adjustable power ranging from 160 ?mol/m.sup.2s to 200 ?mol/m.sup.2s. Electroluminescent LEDs used in the fixture are selected so that the light band includes violet and blue regions with wavelengths of 400-500 nm, red and far red regions with wavelengths of 600-800 nm and/or green spectral regions with wavelengths of 500-600 nm.

Example 3Greenhouse Farming

[0109] In the method for illuminating and farming tomato plants in confined spaces without natural light and in greenhouse conditions as presented herein, the growing facility is equipped with a ventilation system and environmental sensors to monitor temperature and humidity. The temperature of the growing facility is set so that it is between 24 and 26? C. during the day and 20-22? C. at night, and the humidity is set so that it is in a range of 50-60%. Temperature and humidity control is executed using an air conditioner, wherein plants are sprayed with an aqueous solution of a foliar fertilizer when the humidity drops below 50%.

[0110] For soilless breeding in mineral wool, plants are watered with water having a pH of 4.8 and fertilized with 0.2%?0.15 fertilizer solution with composition listed in Table 3.1 and a pH value of 4.8; EC 2.60 mS/cm. In addition, a calcium and magnesium supplement is used for watering in the vegetative phase and throughout the generative phase, with composition listed in Table 3.2 and a dosage of 1 mL/1 L water. Foliar spraying of plants is performed once a week with 17% calcium nitrate solution and a supplemental fertilizer with composition listed in Table 3.3; dosage: 2 mL/1 L water, ?0.5 ?L/L water.

TABLE-US-00025 TABLE 3.1 The percentage content of components in the fertilizer used in tomato farming. Component Content [%] N 8.2 MgO 2.8 Cu 0.01 Mo 0.003 P.sub.2O.sub.5 11.5 SO.sub.3 5.7 Fe 0.23 Zn 0.03 K.sub.2O 36.1 B 0.04 Mn 0.14

TABLE-US-00026 TABLE 3.2 The percentage content of components in the calcium and magnesium supplement used in tomato farming. Component Content [%] Total nitrogen 5.9 Nitrate nitrogen 5.1 Amide nitrogen 0.8 Calcium oxide 6.8 Magnesium oxide 2.4

TABLE-US-00027 TABLE 3.3 The percentage content of components in the supplemental fertilizer in tomato farming. Component Content [%] N 3.5 Cu 0.002 Mo 0.001 P.sub.2O.sub.5 4.0 Fe 0.04 Zn 0.002 K.sub.2O 7.5 B 0.01 Mn 0.01

[0111] During plant growth, the plants are illuminated with a light fixture fitted with LEDs for 16 hours per 24 hours, so that at least one tomato plant is illuminated in each phase of development (including the seed), while light intensity not lower than 160 ?mol/m.sup.2s is maintained for 16 hours and a spectrum adjusted to the phase of plant growth so that the red to blue light ratio (Red to Blue; R:B) is 1.70?0.15.

[0112] The light in the method of the invention may be used in lower doses during sunny days in the greenhouse and in higher doses when sunlight is insufficient. The current light demand is determined using a PAR sensor and a spectroradiometer. Lighting intensity and spectral composition are adjusted automatically using specially designed software.

[0113] In the vegetative phase, farming is conducted so that:

VII. PAR

[0114] Both in indoor and in greenhouse farming, illumination of 160 ?mol/m.sup.2s for 16 hours per 24 hours is maintained on the top surfaces of plant leaves.

[0115] The PAR value delivered to plants both from light fixtures and from sunlight is continuously monitored using a PAR sensor. The PAR value delivered to plants from fixtures is adjusted to ambient conditions using a digital machine so that the total of sunlight and supplemental light is 160 ?mol/m.sup.2s at the top plant leaves. The light fixture is fitted with a spectroradiometer used with software to adjust the light spectrum to current weather conditions in real time so that a constant light spectrum is maintained throughout the growth phase irrespective of the current ambient conditions.

[0116] When the detected value is too low, the PAR sensor automatically increases fixture power. When the PAR value is too high, the fixture power is automatically reduced.

VIII. Spectrum

[0117] During the vegetative phase in a greenhouse, natural sunlight is supplemented for 16 hours per 24 hours so as to finally obtain the aforementioned spectrum, that is, white light with blue and red peaks; R:B 1.70?0.15.

[0118] The following was found when observing the effectiveness and action of the method for tomato farming during the vegetative phase without natural light of the invention: [0119] 5% more leaves compared to plants grown under a control lamp (HPS), [0120] 43% power savings compared to farming under an HPS lamp, [0121] 22% greater leaf area compared to farming under an HPS lamp.

TABLE-US-00028 TABLE 3.4 Comparison of light source parameters and characteristics of farmed plants. Average Energy used number of Total Fixture for 16 h of leaves leaf area power illumination Illumination [items] [cm.sup.2] [W] [kWh] Light fixture with 10.5 8140 160 2.56 an LED spectrum until the vegetative phase HPS 10 6661 280 4.48

[0122] In the generative growth phase, farming is conducted so that:

7. PAR

[0123] The light intensity of 200 ?mol/m.sup.2s for 16 hours per 24 hours is maintained on the top surfaces of plant leaves.

[0124] The PAR value delivered to plants both from light fixtures and from sunlight is continuously monitored using a PAR sensor. The PAR value delivered to plants from fixtures is adjusted to ambient conditions using software so that the total of sunlight and supplemental light is 200 ?mol/m.sup.2s at the top plant leaves. The light fixture is fitted with a spectroradiometer to automatically adjust the light spectrum to current weather conditions in real time so that a constant light spectrum is maintained throughout the growth phase irrespective of the current ambient conditions.

[0125] When the detected value is too low, the PAR sensor automatically increases fixture power. When the PAR value is too high, the fixture power is automatically reduced.

8. Spectrum

[0126] During the generative phase in a greenhouse, natural sunlight is supplemented with a light fixture for 16 hours per 24 hours, so that as a result, a spectrum consisting of white light with blue and red peaks is obtained, with a red to blue light ratio of 10.00?0.15.

[0127] The light spectrum in greenhouse farming is continuously monitored using a spectroradiometer. The spectroradiometer continuously supplements any missing wavelengths so that a constant spectrum is maintained throughout the generative phase.

[0128] The invention, using the function of adaptation of the PAR value and spectral composition, achieves a shorter plant growth cycle and increases the yield and quality of produce, thus improving the effectiveness of the tomato production process and reducing power consumption.

[0129] The following was found when observing the effectiveness and action of the method for tomato farming during the generative phase without natural light of the invention: [0130] power consumption decreased by 54%, [0131] the weight of tomatoes produced from 1 W using the aforementioned spectrum was 134% higher compared to a control lamp (HPS), [0132] 6% more tomatoes on average were obtained from one plant farmed using the aforementioned spectrum compared to plants farmed using a control lamp (HPS), [0133] the average weight of a single tomato was 17% greater with the aforementioned spectrum compared to the HPS lamp, [0134] the total weight of tomatoes with footstalks produced by one plant was 21% higher compared to results under the HPS lamp, [0135] the content of reducing sugars in tomatoes harvested from the aforementioned spectrum was 30% higher compared to HPS, [0136] vitamin C content in tomatoes was 7% higher compared to fruit harvested under the HPS lamp, [0137] lycopene content in tomatoes was 4% higher compared to fruit harvested under the HPS lamp.

TABLE-US-00029 TABLE 3.5 Comparison of power consumption between the spectrum being part of the invention and commonly used HPS greenhouse lighting. Fixture Energy used power for 16 h of Illumination [W] illumination [kWh] Light fixture with an 129 2.06 LED spectrum until the vegetative phase HPS 280 4.48

TABLE-US-00030 TABLE 3.6 Comparison of results obtained with the spectrum being part of the invention and commonly used HPS greenhouse lighting. Weight of Number of Total weight tomatoes tomatoes Average of tomatoes produced per one weight of with footstalks from 1 W plant one tomato produced by Illumination [g/W] [items] [g] one plant [g] Light fixture with 10.67 17 82 1377 an LED spectrum until the generative phase HPS 4.55 16 70 1138

TABLE-US-00031 TABLE 3.7 Comparison of biochemical parameters obtained with the spectrum being part of the invention and commonly used HPS greenhouse lighting. Content of Vitamin C reducing sugars content [mg/ Lycopene [mg/mL tomato 100 mL tomato content Illumination extract] extract] [mg/kg] Light fixture with an 1.99 11.39 68.74 LED spectrum until the generative phase HPS 1.53 10.65 66.25

[0138] The following was found when observing the effectiveness and action of the method for tomato farming during the phase in greenhouse conditions of the invention: [0139] power savings of 20% compared to standard greenhouse lighting, [0140] the total of tomatoes harvested from plants additionally illuminated using the aforementioned spectrum was 13% greater than the total of tomatoes harvested from plants additionally illuminated with HPS lamps.

TABLE-US-00032 TABLE 3.8 Comparison of results obtained with the spectrum being part of the invention and commonly used HPS greenhouse lighting. Energy used during 16 h of Total Actual power additional tomatoes of a single illumination harvested light fixture (20 light fixtures) Illumination [kg] [W] [kWh] Light fixture with an 697.18 585 187.2 LED spectrum until the generative phase HPS 619.70 730 233.6

[0141] A device for illuminating tomato plants in confined spaces without natural light and in greenhouse conditions contains a housing formed as a radiator, having known means to ensure its tightness, in which LEDs in the RGB system are fitted, connected to a known electronic power supply system indirectly through a spectroradiometer. The LEDs have adjustable power ranging from 160 ?mol/m.sup.2s to 200 ?mol/m.sup.2s. Electroluminescent LEDs used in the fixture are selected so that the light band includes violet and blue regions with wavelengths of 400-500 nm, red and far red regions with wavelengths of 600-800 nm and/or green spectral regions with wavelengths of 500-600 nm.

Example 4Farming in Confined Spaces without Natural LightIndoor Farming

[0142] In the method for illuminating and breeding tomato plants in confined spaces without natural light as presented herein, the breeding/growing facility is equipped with a ventilation system and environmental sensors to monitor temperature and humidity. The temperature of the growing facility is set so that it is between 24 and 26? C. during the day and 20-22? C. at night, and the humidity is set so that it is in a range of 50-60%. Temperature and humidity control is executed using an air conditioner, wherein plants are sprayed with aqueous solution of a foliar fertilizer when the humidity drops below 50%.

[0143] For soilless breeding in mineral wool, plants are watered with water having a pH of 4.8 and fertilized with 0.2%?0.15 fertilizer solution with composition listed in Table 4.1 and a pH value of 4.8; EC 2.60 mS/cm. In addition, a calcium and magnesium supplement is used for watering in the vegetative phase and throughout the generative phase, with composition listed in Table 4.2 and a dosage of 1 mL/1 L water. Foliar spraying of plants is performed once a week with 17% calcium nitrate solution and a supplemental fertilizer with composition listed in Table 4.3; dosage: 2 mL/1 L water, ?0.5 ?L/L water.

TABLE-US-00033 TABLE 4.1 The percentage content of components in the fertilizer used in tomato farming. Component Content [%] N 8.2 MgO 2.8 Cu 0.01 Mo 0.003 P.sub.2O.sub.5 11.5 SO.sub.3 5.7 Fe 0.23 Zn 0.03 K.sub.2O 36.1 B 0.04 Mn 0.14

TABLE-US-00034 TABLE 4.2 The percentage content of components in the calcium and magnesium supplement used in tomato farming. Component Content [%] Total nitrogen 5.9 Nitrate nitrogen 5.1 Amide nitrogen 0.8 Calcium oxide 6.8 Magnesium oxide 2.4

TABLE-US-00035 TABLE 4.3 The percentage content of components in the supplemental fertilizer in tomato farming. Component Content [%] N 3.5 Cu 0.002 Mo 0.001 P.sub.2O.sub.5 4.0 Fe 0.04 Zn 0.002 K.sub.2O 7.5 B 0.01 Mn 0.01

[0144] 1 During plant growth, the plants are illuminated with a light fixture fitted with LEDs for 16 hours per 24 hours, so that at least one tomato plant is illuminated in each phase of development (including the seed), while light intensity not lower than 160 ?mol/m.sup.2s is maintained for 16 hours and a spectrum adjusted to the phase of plant growth so that the red to blue light ratio (Red to Blue; R:B) is 1.70?0.15.

[0145] The light in the method of the invention may be used in lower doses during sunny days in the greenhouse and in higher doses when sunlight is insufficient. The current light demand is determined using a PAR sensor and a spectroradiometer. Lighting intensity and spectral composition are adjusted automatically using specially designed software.

[0146] In the vegetative phase, farming is conducted so that:

IX. PAR

[0147] Both in indoor and in greenhouse farming, illumination of 160 ?mol/m.sup.2s for 16 hours per 24 hours is maintained on the top surfaces of plant leaves.

[0148] The PAR value delivered to plants from light fixtures is continuously monitored using a PAR sensor. The PAR value delivered to plants from fixtures is adjusted using a digital machine so that the total supplemental light is 160 ?mol/m.sup.2s at the top plant leaves. The light fixture is fitted with a spectroradiometer used with software to adjust the light spectrum to current conditions in real time so that a constant light spectrum is maintained throughout the growth phase.

[0149] When the detected value is too low, the PAR sensor automatically increases fixture power. When the PAR value is too high, the fixture power is automatically reduced.

X. Spectrum

[0150] During the vegetative phase in a farming tent, a spectrum consisting of white light with peak emissions of artificial blue light and artificial red light is maintained for 16 hours per 24 hours. The red to blue light ratio (Red to Blue; R:B) is 1.70?0.15.

[0151] The following was found when observing the effectiveness and action of the method for tomato farming during the vegetative phase without natural light of the invention: [0152] 5% more leaves compared to plants grown under a control lamp (HPS), [0153] 43% power savings compared to farming under an HPS lamp, [0154] 22% greater leaf area compared to farming under an HPS lamp.

TABLE-US-00036 TABLE 4.4 Comparison of light source parameters and characteristics of farmed plants. Average Energy used number of Total Fixture for 16 h of leaves leaf area power illumination Illumination [items] [cm.sup.2] [W] [kWh] Light fixture with 10.5 8140 160 2.56 an LED spectrum until the vegetative phase HPS 10 6661 280 4.48

[0155] In the generative growth phase, farming is conducted so that:

9. PAR

[0156] Light intensity of 200 ?mol/m.sup.2/s for 16 hours per 24 hours is maintained on the top surfaces of plant leaves, and the PAR sensor continuously monitors the PAR values delivered to plants from light fixtures. The PAR value delivered to plants from fixtures is adjusted to farming conditions using software so that the total of supplemental light is 200 ?mol/m.sup.2s at the top plant leaves. The light fixture is fitted with a spectroradiometer to automatically adjust the light spectrum to current lighting conditions in real time so that a constant light spectrum is maintained throughout the growth phase.

[0157] When the detected value is too low, the PAR sensor automatically increases fixture power. When the PAR value is too high, the fixture power is automatically reduced.

10. Spectrum

[0158] During the generative phase in a farming tent, a spectrum consisting of white light with peak emissions of artificial blue light and artificial red light is maintained for 16 hours per 24 hours. The red to blue light ratio (Red to Blue; R:B) is 2.40?0.15.

[0159] The invention, using the function of adaptation of the PAR value and spectral composition, achieves a shorter plant growth cycle and increases the yield and quality of produce, thus improving the effectiveness of the tomato production process and reducing power consumption.

[0160] The following was found when observing the effectiveness and action of the method for tomato farming during the generative phase without natural light of the invention: [0161] power consumption decreased by 54%, [0162] the weight of tomatoes produced from 1 W using the aforementioned spectrum was 134% higher compared to a control lamp (HPS), [0163] 6% more tomatoes on average were obtained from one plant farmed using the aforementioned spectrum compared to plants farmed using a control lamp (HPS), [0164] the average weight of a single tomato was 17% greater with the aforementioned spectrum compared to the HPS lamp, [0165] the total weight of tomatoes with footstalks produced by one plant was 21% higher compared to results under the HPS lamp, [0166] the content of reducing sugars in tomatoes harvested from the aforementioned spectrum was 30% higher compared to HPS, [0167] vitamin C content in tomatoes was 7% higher compared to fruit harvested under the HPS lamp, [0168] lycopene content in tomatoes was 4% higher compared to fruit harvested under the HPS lamp.

TABLE-US-00037 TABLE 4.5 Comparison of power consumption between the spectrum being part of the invention and commonly used HPS greenhouse lighting. Fixture Energy used power for 16 h of Illumination [W] illumination [kWh] Light fixture with an 129 2.06 LED spectrum until the vegetative phase HPS 280 4.48

TABLE-US-00038 TABLE 4.6 Comparison of results obtained with the spectrum being part of the invention and commonly used HPS greenhouse lighting. Weight of Number of Average Total weight tomatoes tomatoes weight of tomatoes produced per one of one with footstalks from 1 W plant tomato produced by Illumination [g/W] [items] [g] one plant [g] Light fixture with 10.67 17 82 1377 an LED spectrum until the generative phase HPS 4.55 16 70 1138

TABLE-US-00039 TABLE 4.7 Comparison of biochemical parameters obtained with the spectrum being part of the invention and commonly used HPS greenhouse lighting. Content of Vitamin C reducing sugars content [mg/ Lycopene [mg/mL tomato 100 mL tomato content Illumination extract] extract] [mg/kg] Light fixture with an 1.99 11.39 68.74 LED spectrum until the generative phase HPS 1.53 10.65 66.25

[0169] The following was found when observing the effectiveness and action of the method for tomato farming during the phase in greenhouse conditions of the invention: [0170] power savings of 20% compared to standard greenhouse lighting, [0171] the total of tomatoes harvested from plants additionally illuminated using the aforementioned spectrum was 13% greater than the total of tomatoes harvested from plants additionally illuminated with HPS lamps.

TABLE-US-00040 TABLE 4.8 Comparison of results obtained with the spectrum being part of the invention and commonly used HPS greenhouse lighting. Energy used during 16 h of Total Actual power additional tomatoes of a single illumination harvested light fixture (20 light fixtures) Illumination [kg] [W] [kWh] Light fixture with an 697.18 585 187.2 LED spectrum until the generative phase HPS 619.70 730 233.6

[0172] A device for illuminating tomato plants in confined spaces without natural light and in greenhouse conditions contains a housing formed as a radiator, having known means to ensure its tightness, in which LEDs in the RGB system are fitted, connected to a known electronic power supply system indirectly through a spectroradiometer. The LEDs have adjustable power ranging from 160 ?mol/m.sup.2s to 200 ?mol/m.sup.2s. Electroluminescent LEDs used in the fixture are selected so that the light band includes violet and blue regions with wavelengths of 400-500 nm, red and far red regions with wavelengths of 600-800 nm and/or green spectral regions with wavelengths of 500-600 nm.

[0173] Although the invention has been described in conjunction with specific embodiments thereof, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications, and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, it is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and broad scope of the appended claims.