Recent research has revealed that LED supplementary lighting significantly enhances the growth, yield, and quality of winter-grown watermelon plants. The study, conducted by Md. Hossain and published in Horticulturae, tested the effects of different LED lighting intensities on watermelon growth, with promising results for agricultural practices in colder months.
The study examined three lighting conditions: natural daylight (control), and LED lights at intensities of 900 and 1500 µmol/m²/s, applied from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM. The results demonstrated that LED lighting, particularly at 900 µmol/m²/s, had a remarkable impact on chlorophyll content, calcium (Ca²⁺), and magnesium (Mg²⁺) levels in the leaves of the fruit-setting region, thereby promoting a higher photosynthesis rate. This led to more consistent plant growth throughout the winter growing period.
Notably, the study found that the plants exposed to the 900 µmol/m²/s LED intensity produced a 31% higher yield compared to the control group. This intensity also improved fruit size, weight, and flesh thickness. The fruits from the 900 µmol/m²/s LED-treated plants ripened faster, with a notably higher sugar content and lower acid levels. Even at the higher intensity of 1500 µmol/m²/s, the plants showed a 14% increase in yield over the control group.
The findings suggest that supplementary LED lighting, particularly at a moderate intensity of 900 µmol/m²/s, could play a crucial role in boosting watermelon production during the winter months, providing farmers with a reliable method to increase crop yields and improve fruit quality in colder climates.
“This study highlights the potential of LED lighting in modern agriculture,” said Md. Hossain. “By optimizing lighting conditions, we can enhance plant growth and quality, offering new opportunities for year-round fruit production.”
