The Impact of LED Light Spectra on the Growth, Yield, Physiology, and Sweetness Compound of Stevia rebaudiana

Naofel Aljafer*, Abdullah Alrajhi, Toby Anderson von Trampe, William Vevers, Sophie Fauset, Hail Zuhir Rihan

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

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Abstract

This study investigated the effects of several light spectra on Stevia rebaudiana, analysing growth parameters, yield, and physiological responses within a controlled-environment agriculture (CEA) system. The experimental design involved different light treatments, including specific combinations of blue (435 nm and 450 nm), red (663 nm), and ultraviolet (UV) wavelengths (365 nm), to determine their impact on morphological development and biochemical properties, particularly focusing on the production of the sweetening compounds stevioside and rebaudioside A. Stevia rebaudiana plants cultivated from cuttings sourced from a reputable UK nursery (Gardener’s Dream Ltd., Glasgow, UK) were subjected to these spectral treatments over a period of five weeks under vertical farming conditions. Physiological measurements, such as chlorophyll fluorescence (Fv/Fm), stomatal conductance, and leaf temperature, were recorded, alongside growth metrics (plant height, leaf area, and biomass). This study also incorporated high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) to quantitatively analyse the influence of the light treatments on the sweetener concentration. The results demonstrated that targeted LED spectra, particularly those that include UV light and blue light (435 nm), significantly nhanced both the quantitative and qualitative attributes of stevia growth, indicating that strategic light management can markedly improve the nutritional and commercial yields of Stevia rebaudiana. This research contributes to the optimisation of light conditions in vertical farming systems, aiming to enhance agricultural efficiency and reduce the reliance on imported stevia by maximising local production capabilities.

Original languageEnglish
Article number108
JournalBiology
Volume14
Issue number2
Early online date21 Jan 2025
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Feb 2025

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Biochemistry,Genetics and Molecular Biology
  • General Immunology and Microbiology
  • General Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Keywords

  • blue light wavelength (435 nm)
  • controlled-environment agriculture
  • HPLC
  • light-emitting diode
  • reb A
  • Stevia rebaudiana
  • stevioside
  • UV

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