Optimizing lettuce cultivation in the NFT system: integrative methods for sustainable yields. A review

Abstract

Lettuce grown in the Nutrient Film Technology (NFT) system represents a significant evolution in modern agriculture, involving the continuous supply of nutrients and water to the plant roots through a thin film of nutrient solution in a controlled environment. Growing lettuce in the NFT system with additional water oxygenation is a significant advantage in high-quality food production. These systems combine hydroponic growth methods with additional water oxygenation to optimize plant development. To make the NFT system more sustainable, some producers have adopted renewable energy sources, such as solar panels, to power lighting and nutrient solution pumping, leading to a reduced carbon footprint of lettuce cultivation and minimized energy costs. To optimize the light cycle, LED lighting systems are used, which can be programmed to provide the plant with the exact amount and spectrum of light required at different growth stages. This allows cultivators to adjust the light spectrum to match the specific needs of lettuce plants, using red and blue LED spectra to stimulate vegetative growth and leaf development. By integrating LED lighting into the NFT system, lettuce producers can achieve consistent and high yields throughout the year. This approach ensures a constant supply of fresh lettuce and demonstrates how technology can play a crucial role in adapting agriculture to climate change and the consumption needs of society.