NE2335: Resource Optimization in Controlled Environment Agriculture

(Multistate Research Project)

Status: Active

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SAES-422 Reports

Annual/Termination Reports:

[09/05/2025] [08/19/2025]

Date of Annual Report: 09/05/2025

Report Information

Annual Meeting Dates: 07/28/2025 - 07/28/2025
Period the Report Covers: 08/01/2024 - 08/31/2025

Participants

Brief Summary of Minutes

Accomplishments

<h2>Objective 1: Optimize environmental management and control to reduce energy use for high-quality greenhouse and indoor crop production</h2> <h3 data-start="510" data-end="580">1. Develop crop-specific guidelines for light quantity and quality</h3> Outputs <ul> <li data-start="597" data-end="763">Arizona State University published a HortScience article (USDA-funded) on supplemental far-red radiation in sole-source lighting for indoor strawberry production.</li> <li data-start="766" data-end="969">University of Delaware published a HortScience article (American Floral Endowment-funded) on flowering responses of greenhouse long-day plants to nighttime lighting duration and total light quantity.</li> </ul> Milestones <ul> <li data-start="990" data-end="1227">University of Delaware advanced data acquisition, analysis, visualization, and interpretation for upcoming presentations on sole-source lighting, CO₂ enrichment, and biostimulant-enabled tipburn control. Manuscripts are in preparation.</li> </ul> Activities <ul> <li data-start="1248" data-end="1400">University of Delaware conducted three sole-source lighting experiments to examine temporal effects of light spectra in hydroponic lettuce production.</li> </ul> <h3 data-start="1407" data-end="1473">2. Investigate conversion efficiency of electric light sources</h3> Outputs <ul> <li data-start="1490" data-end="1635">Cornell University collaboration produced a peer-reviewed publication on life cycle assessment and techno-economic analysis of plant factories.</li> <li data-start="1638" data-end="1722">Rutgers University presented research at an international agrivoltaics conference.</li> </ul> Activities <ul> <li data-start="1743" data-end="1876">Rutgers evaluated horticultural fixtures using a 2-m integrating sphere (fixture efficacy) and walk-in darkroom (PAR distribution).</li> <li data-start="1879" data-end="1987">Life cycle analysis applied to plant lighting technologies and strategies to assess environmental impacts.</li> </ul> <h3 data-start="1994" data-end="2062">3. Investigate environmental control strategies incorporating AI</h3> Activities <ul> <li data-start="2082" data-end="2220">Ohio State University (Ling) developed short-term solar radiation and high tunnel temperature forecasting models using machine learning.</li> <li data-start="2223" data-end="2358">Ohio State University (Kubota) compared AI climate control (Koidra Kopilot) with conventional control in high-wire tomato production.</li> <li data-start="2361" data-end="2519">NV conducted LED spectrum experiments in vertical farming lettuce, identifying white + red + far-red light as optimal for biomass and secondary metabolites.</li> <li data-start="2522" data-end="2660">Rutgers University (ADVANCEA project) applied AI-based greenhouse control to optimize lettuce growth, tipburn reduction, and energy use.</li> </ul> Outcomes <ul> <li data-start="2679" data-end="2811">HRRR solar radiation forecasts required the most improvement; Ohio State developed streamlined CSV-based forecasts for grower use.</li> <li data-start="2814" data-end="2911">AI-managed greenhouses showed higher productivity but greater resource (water/electricity) use.</li> </ul> Outputs <ul> <li data-start="2929" data-end="3056">Ohio State presented outcomes at GreenSys 2025 and ASHS 2025; results published in Acta Horticulturae and HortTechnology.</li> <li data-start="3059" data-end="3136">Data shared publicly via the CEA Open Data site (<a href="https://ceaod.github.io/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" data-start="3108" data-end="3132">https://ceaod.github.io/</a>).</li> </ul> <h3 data-start="3143" data-end="3220">4. Investigate wavelength-selective greenhouse coverings and agrivoltaics</h3> Activities <ul> <li data-start="3240" data-end="3340">Research trials conducted at three New Jersey university farms with installed agrivoltaic systems.</li> </ul> <h3 data-start="3347" data-end="3413">5. Co-optimize environmental variables and resource efficiency</h3> Activities <ul> <li data-start="3433" data-end="3571">Ohio State University (Owen) compared propagation of unrooted cuttings under solar, LED, and HPS light for energy and carbon efficiency.</li> <li data-start="3574" data-end="3677">University of Delaware examined CO₂ × light quality effects on hydroponic lettuce in growth chambers.</li> <li data-start="3680" data-end="3765">Cornell (GLASE consortium) tested lighting fixtures for horticultural applications.</li> <li data-start="3768" data-end="3848">Rutgers (Lubna) performed life cycle assessments of switching from HPS to LED.</li> <li data-start="3851" data-end="3913">Rutgers (Satoh) advanced NFT lettuce trials within ADVANCEA.</li> <li data-start="3916" data-end="4025">Texas A&M (College Station) studied light intensity × CO₂ effects on dwarf tomato growth and fruit quality.</li> <li data-start="4028" data-end="4143">Texas A&M (Dallas) tested root-zone cooling on four spinach cultivars; 24 °C improved performance and efficiency.</li> <li data-start="4146" data-end="4245">Mississippi State (Zhang) compared hydroponic systems and biostimulants on six lettuce cultivars.</li> <li data-start="4248" data-end="4337">USDA-ARS measured photosynthetic responses in basil, cilantro, mint, parsley, and sage.</li> </ul> Outcomes <ul> <li data-start="4356" data-end="4466">Supplemental day-extension lighting improved rooted liner quality early but increased water/electricity use.</li> <li data-start="4469" data-end="4555">OH presented outcomes at ASHS 2024 and the Ohio Floriculture and Nursery Conference.</li> <li data-start="4558" data-end="4606">TX (Dallas) published spinach cooling results.</li> <li data-start="4609" data-end="4666">MS presented lettuce biostimulant results at ASHS 2025.</li> </ul> Milestones <ul> <li data-start="4687" data-end="4782">Rutgers will complete an M.S. thesis (Satoh) and Ph.D. dissertation (Lubna) in the next year.</li> <li data-start="4785" data-end="4857">Rutgers will publish a peer-reviewed article on life cycle assessment.</li> </ul> <h2 data-start="4864" data-end="4937">Objective 2: Improve root-zone management of biotic and abiotic factors</h2> <h3 data-start="4939" data-end="4997">1. Select new crops for year-round soilless production</h3> Activities <ul> <li data-start="5017" data-end="5076">Ohio State (Owen) trialed bok choy in deep water culture.</li> <li data-start="5079" data-end="5160">Maine (Burnett) tested snow pea and carrot cultivars in NFT and soilless media.</li> <li data-start="5163" data-end="5257">Delaware (Meng) gave keynote in Brazil on CEA challenges, promoting industry collaborations.</li> <li data-start="5260" data-end="5390">Delaware, ASU, and Colorado State collaborated on USDA NIFA Urban/Indoor grant (foci: biostimulant, dissolved oxygen, lighting).</li> <li data-start="5393" data-end="5500">South Dakota recruited a Ph.D. student to identify multifunctional crops (ornamentals, herbs, medicinal).</li> <li data-start="5503" data-end="5568">Utah evaluated biostimulants on onion and watermelon seedlings.</li> <li data-start="5571" data-end="5659">Utah tested salinity tolerance of seven landscape species under controlled irrigation.</li> <li data-start="5662" data-end="5761">Utah examined nitrogen-fixing native plants (Cercocarpus montanus) under greenhouse conditions.</li> <li data-start="5764" data-end="5867">USDA-ARS optimized nutrient solution EC and N concentration for strawberry daughter plant production.</li> </ul> Outcomes <ul> <li data-start="5886" data-end="5928">Bok choy feasible in deep water culture.</li> <li data-start="5931" data-end="6010">Snow peas suitable for hydroponics; carrots under NFT prone to fibrous roots.</li> <li data-start="6013" data-end="6078">Delaware tipburn biostimulant results prompted grower adoption.</li> </ul> Outputs <ul> <li data-start="6096" data-end="6188">Delaware + ASU published a HortScience article on K₂SO₄ supplementation in strawberries.</li> <li data-start="6191" data-end="6278">Delaware + Croda published an Inside Grower trade article on lettuce biostimulants.</li> <li data-start="6281" data-end="6329">Maine snow pea results presented at ASHS 2025.</li> <li data-start="6332" data-end="6422">Mississippi State (Zhang) presented spinach studies at multiple Mississippi conferences.</li> </ul> <h3 data-start="6429" data-end="6506">2. Improve efficacy of organic fertilizers with beneficial microorganisms</h3> Activities <ul> <li data-start="6526" data-end="6611">Ohio State (Ling) developed automated hyperspectral platform for biofilm detection.</li> <li data-start="6614" data-end="6735">Texas A&M (Dallas) tested microbial biostimulants on onion seedlings and organic fertilizers on watermelon transplants.</li> <li data-start="6738" data-end="6837">Mississippi State (Zhang) tested organic fertilizers and microbial biostimulants on strawberries.</li> <li data-start="6840" data-end="6929">South Dakota prepared lettuce trials with microbial inoculants and organic fertilizers.</li> </ul> Outputs <ul> <li data-start="6947" data-end="7022">ASU student completed M.S. thesis on food waste digestate in hydroponics.</li> <li data-start="7025" data-end="7166">TX (Dallas) published results: microbial biostimulants (e.g., Tribus Continuum) synergized with seaweed extracts for onion seedling growth.</li> <li data-start="7169" data-end="7264">TX (Dallas) published results showing N availability as key for watermelon transplant growth.</li> </ul> <h2 data-start="7271" data-end="7346">Objective 3: Train growers and students on CEA production and engineering</h2> <h3 data-start="7348" data-end="7408">1. Develop online class in scouting for insects/diseases</h3> Activities <ul> <li data-start="7428" data-end="7517">Ohio State (Ling) taught ADVANCEA course on humidification/dehumidification (Feb 2025).</li> <li data-start="7520" data-end="7592">NY + ME + Vermont colleagues offered CEA scouting class (Spring 2025).</li> </ul> <h3 data-start="7599" data-end="7666">2. Develop Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL) projects</h3> Activities <ul> <li data-start="7686" data-end="7794">Ohio State (Owen, Kubota) launched “HCS 4200: Experiential Learning in CEA” capstone course (Autumn 2024).</li> <li data-start="7797" data-end="7908">Kansas State (Williams) + ASU (Park) developed food systems learning modules; evaluated via pre/post surveys.</li> <li data-start="7911" data-end="8031">Rutgers taught “Indoor Cultivation of High Value Crops” (Spring 2025) to 16 students with hands-on AeroGarden systems.</li> <li data-start="8034" data-end="8126">Maine piloted mindfulness interventions in STEM courses (including greenhouse management).</li> </ul> <h3 data-start="8133" data-end="8168">3. Develop hydroponics textbook</h3> Activities <ul> <li data-start="8188" data-end="8331">Purdue (Gómez) + Cornell (Mattson) coordinated textbook writing (28 contributors from 24 stations). Draft by 2026; publication expected 2027.</li> </ul> <h3 data-start="8338" data-end="8395">4. Develop hydroponic training and annual conferences</h3> Activities <ul> <li data-start="8415" data-end="8563">OHCEAC organized four grower training events (Leafy Crops Event, ADVANCEA online course, Greenhouse Tomato Academy, OHCEAC Annual CEA Conference).</li> <li data-start="8566" data-end="8633">MS (Zhang) delivered county- and club-level hydroponic trainings.</li> <li data-start="8636" data-end="8752">Texas A&M (College Station) hosted a hydroponic crop production workshop (July 2025) with 29 student participants.</li> <li data-start="8755" data-end="8845">Texas A&M (Dallas) hosted the 6th Annual Urban Horticulture – CEA Conference (Dec 2024).</li> <li data-start="8848" data-end="8977">ADVANCEA delivered 28-lecture online course “Introduction to Greenhouse Environmental Control” (Jan–Apr 2025) with 45 students.</li> </ul> Outputs <ul> <li data-start="8995" data-end="9052">Training outcomes disseminated to growers and students.</li> </ul> <h2 data-start="9059" data-end="9082">Other Accomplishments</h2> Activities <ul> <li data-start="9102" data-end="9209">Ohio State (Owen) organized inaugural Ohio Floriculture and Nursery Conference (Oct 2024; 104 attendees).</li> <li data-start="9212" data-end="9314">Rutgers Agrivoltaics Program installed three agrivoltaic systems; began data collection (2024–2025).</li> </ul> Outcomes <ul> <li data-start="9333" data-end="9478">Attendees at Ohio Floriculture Conference planned production changes within 3–6 months, with estimated business improvements of $1,000–$50,000.</li> </ul>

Publications

Dissertations, Theses (Published): Christensen, E. (2025). Watermelon production in Utah: Exploring biostimulants to reduce water and fertilizer use (Master’s thesis, Utah State University). Utah State University, Logan, UT. <a href="https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/etd2023/608?utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/etd2023/608</a> Moore, M. (2025). Food safety in hydroponic systems: Crop growth and pathogen reduction with physical and biocontrol interventions (Doctoral dissertation, Kansas State University). Kansas State University. Nepal, P. (2025). Effects of plant biostimulants on onion growth and production under greenhouse and field conditions (Master’s thesis, Utah State University). Utah State University, Logan, UT. <a href="https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/etd2023/462?utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/etd2023/462</a> Rich, W. T. (2025). Evaluating the influence of concentration, application timing, and substrate composition on the efficacy of ethephon substrate drenches for growth regulation in floriculture crops (Master’s thesis, The Ohio State University). The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH. Seltsam, L. E. (2025). Evaluating floriculture production strategies for energy and water resource use efficiency (Master’s thesis, The Ohio State University). The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH. Subedi, P. (2025). Optimization of nutrient solution management for leafy greens production in recirculating hydroponic systems under controlled environments (Master’s thesis, Kansas State University). Kansas State University. Webb, E. (2024). Using food waste liquid anaerobic digestate for hydroponic leafy vegetable production (Master’s thesis, Arizona State University). Arizona State University. ISBN: 9798346808312 Books (Published):   None  Book Chapters (Published): None Refereed Journal Articles (Published):  Ali, A., Niu, G., Masabni, J., Ferrante, A., & Cocetta, G. (2024). Integrated nutrient management of fruits, vegetables and crops through the use of biostimulants, soilless cultivation, and traditional and modern approaches: A mini review. Agriculture, 14(1330). <a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture1401330?utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture1401330</a> Amrhein, J., Rotondo, F., Kubota, C., Miller, S. A., & Testen, A. L. (2024). Diagnostic guide for Pythium root rot in hydroponic leaf green and herb production. Plant Health Progress. https://doi.org/10.1094/PHP-07-24-0070-DG Azad, M. O. K., Gurda, N., & Naznin, M. T. (2024). Energy efficiency of glasshouses and plant factories for sustainable urban farming in the desert Southwest of the United States of America. Horticulturae, 10(10), 1055. <a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10101055?utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10101055</a> Bhattarai, S., Jha, D. K., Singh, J., Zhen, S., & Patil, B. S. (2025). Supplemental greenhouse lighting enhances the abundance of cis-lycopene isomers in tomato fruits. Journal of Food Composition and Analysis, 107534. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jfca.2025.107534?utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jfca.2025.107534</a> Brewer, D. S., Walters, K. J., Armstrong, S. P., Boldt, J. K., & Lopez, R. G. (2024). End-of-production cooling alters foliage color, yield, and nutrition of red leaf lettuce. Journal of the American Society for Horticultural Science, 149(6), 365–378. <a href="https://doi.org/10.21273/JASHS05438-24?utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://doi.org/10.21273/JASHS05438-24</a> Brumfield, R. G., Greenwood, D. L., Flahive Di Nardo, M., Both, A. J., Heckman, J. R., Polanin, N., Rouff, A., Rowe, A., VanVranken, R., Arumugam, S., & Govindasamy, R. (2025). Annie’s Project: Farming in cities and the urban fringe. Journal of Extension, 63(2), Article 5. <a href="https://open.clemson.edu/joe/vol63/iss2/5?utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://open.clemson.edu/joe/vol63/iss2/5</a> Chen, J., & Sun, Y. (2025). Effects of reduced substrate volumetric water contents on the morphology and physiology of three landscape shrubs grown in a greenhouse. HortScience, 60(2), 208–217. <a href="https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI18107-24?utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI18107-24</a> Das, P., Barker, C., Park, Y., Perreault, F., Westerhoff, P., & Penton, C. R. (2025). Impact of graphite nano amendments on soil enzyme activities, functional genes and microbiome composition in a soil–plant system. Soil Biology and Biochemistry, 109714. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.soilbio.2025.109714 Ertle, J. M., & Kubota, C. (2025). Nighttime blue lighting and downward airflow to manage tipburn in indoor farm lettuce. HortScience, 60, 325–333. <a href="https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI18269-24?utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI18269-24</a> Hu, G., Kubota, C., & You, F. (2025). Cyber physical biological system in controlled environment agriculture for energy optimization: A comprehensive overview, key challenges, and future outlook. Energy, 325, 136153. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.energy.2025.136153?utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://doi.org/10.1016/j.energy.2025.136153</a> Jeong, S. J., Zhen, S., Zhang, Q., & Niu, G. (2025). Lowering light intensity while extending photoperiod at a constant daily light integral synergistically interacts with warm temperature to enhance leaf expansion and crop yield in lettuce in the absence of far-red light. Frontiers in Plant Science, 16, 1529455. <a href="https://doi.org/10.3389/fpls.2025.1529455?utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://doi.org/10.3389/fpls.2025.1529455</a> Jeong, S. J., Zhang, Q., Niu, G., & Zhen, S. (2024). Synergistic enhancement of biomass allocation from leaves to stem by far-red light and warm temperature can lead to growth reductions. Environmental and Experimental Botany, 228, 106024. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envexpbot.2024.106024?utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envexpbot.2024.106024</a> Jeong, S. J., Zhang, Q., Niu, G., & Zhen, S. (2024). The interactive effects between far-red light and temperature on lettuce growth and morphology diminish at high light intensity. Frontiers in Plant Science, 15, 1497672. <a href="https://doi.org/10.3389/fpls.2024.1497672?utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://doi.org/10.3389/fpls.2024.1497672</a> Khan, M. N. E. A., Masabni, J., & Niu, G. (2025). Cultivar-specific responses of spinach to root-zone cooling in hydroponic systems in a greenhouse under warm climates. Sustainability, 17(3925). https://doi.org/10.3390/su17093925 Kim, C., & Kubota, C. (2025). Contribution of far-red photons to light compensation point of leaf photosynthesis in tomato. HortTechnology, 35, 186–190. <a href="https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTTECH05581-24?utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTTECH05581-24</a> Lee, W. F., Ling, P., & Wilson, A. (2025). Enhancing solar radiation forecasting with machine learning. HortTechnology, 35, 491–501. <a href="https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTTECH05644-25?utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTTECH05644-25</a> Lin, Y., Barker, D. J., & Kubota, C. (2025). Supplemental far-red light prevents semi-dormancy and enhances yield and fruit quality of short-day strawberry in indoor production. HortTechnology. Advance online publication. Lin, Y., Kim, C., Bassil, N. V., Oliphant, J. M., Hardigan, M. A., & Kubota, C. (2025). Characterizing the growth, morphology, productivity, and fruit quality of twenty-three strawberry cultivars in an indoor environment with sole source electric lighting. Frontiers in Horticulture, 4, 1621763. <a href="https://doi.org/10.3389/fhort.2025.1621763?utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://doi.org/10.3389/fhort.2025.1621763</a> Liu, J., Zhang, Q., Masabni, J., & Niu, G. (2024). Low nitrogen availability in organic fertilizers limited organic watermelon transplant growth. Horticulturae, 10(11), 1140. <a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10111140?utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10111140</a> Liu, J., Masabni, J., & Niu, G. (2025). Intermittent flow alleviated root zone stress and increased organic lettuce yield with the nutrient film technique. HortScience. <a href="https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI18623-25?utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI18623-25</a> Machesney, L. M., Dickson, R. W., McWhirt, A. L., Worthington, M. L., & Burnett, S. E. (2025). Blackberry long-cane cold storage and forcing strategy effects on flower and fruit development. HortTechnology, 35, 617–626. Meng, Q., Ranger, C. M., Boldt, J. K., & Runkle, E. S. (2025). A sufficiently high blue photon flux density can promote accumulation of phenolic compounds in hydroponic lettuce. Acta Horticulturae, 1423, 211–218. Meng, Q., & Kramer, T. J. (2024). Increasing the nighttime lighting duration can hasten flowering of long-day plants. HortScience, 59(12), 1833–1837. Menon, R., Both, A. J., & You, F. (2025). A life cycle assessment and techno-economic analysis of plant factories. Journal of Cleaner Production, 144741. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2025.144741?utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2025.144741</a> Moore, M., Yang, T., Douraki, M. J., Rivard, C., Pliakoni, E., Nwadike, L., & Bhullar, M. (2025). Effect of ultraviolet water treatment on survival and growth of E. coli in recirculating hydroponic systems. Journal of Food Protection, 100575. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jfp.2025.100575 Nepal, P., Paudel, A., Wang, Z., & Sun, Y. (2025). Effects of nitrogen on the growth and development of Ceanothus velutinus. Journal of Environmental Horticulture, 43(1), 30–40. Paudel, A., Sanders, M., Sun, Y., & Dai, X. (2025). Nodulation of snowbrush ceanothus in three soilless substrates. Journal of Environmental Horticulture, 43(1), 49–55. Peterson, B. J., Peronto, M., Fecteau, Z., Hutchinson, J., & Burnett, S. E. (2024). Growth and fecundity of non-native blue honeysuckle cultivars: Comparisons with native and invasive congeners in a Maine field trial. HortScience, 59, 1137–1142. Rich, W. T., & Owen, W. G. (2025). Quantifying growth control of annual bedding plants with ethephon substrate drenches. HortScience, 60(7), 1227–1243. <a href="https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI18579-25?utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI18579-25</a> Rich, W. T., & Owen, W. G. (2025). Ethephon substrate drenches control stem elongation of containerized herbaceous perennials. HortScience, 60(4), 542–553. <a href="https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI18418-24?utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI18418-24</a> Ries, J., Meng, Q., & Park, Y. (2025). Potassium sulfate supplementation with elevated electrical conductivity was unproductive for hydroponic strawberry at the original Yamazaki nutrient solution nitrogen level. HortScience, 60(2), 198–204. Ries, J., & Park, Y. (2024). Far-red light in sole-source lighting can enhance the growth and fruit production of indoor strawberries. HortScience, 59(6), 799–805. Valle de Souza, S., Shasteen, K. C., Seong, J., Kubota, C., Kacira, M., & Peterson, H. C. (2024). Production planning in an indoor farm: Using time and space requirements to define an efficient production schedule and farm size. International Food and Agribusiness Management Review, 27. https://doi.org/10.22434/IFAMR2023.0038 Veazie, P., Chen, H., Hicks, K., Boldt, J., & Whipker, B. (2025). A data-driven approach to generating foliar nutrient interpretation ranges and machine learning-based interpretation for petunia. HortScience, 60(6), 878–888. <a href="https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI18508-25?utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI18508-25</a> Veazie, P., Chen, H., Hicks, K., Holley, J., Eylands, N., Mattson, N., Boldt, J., Brewer, D., Lopez, R., & Whipker, B. (2024). Developing supervised machine learning algorithms to classify lettuce foliar tissue samples into interpretation zones for 11 plant essential nutrients. Urban Agriculture & Regional Food Systems, 9(1), e70002. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1002/uar2.70002?utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://doi.org/10.1002/uar2.70002</a> Wang, Z., Nepal, P., Kelly, M., Porter, A., Sun, Y., & Zhang, Y. (2025). Morphological and physiological responses of three ornamental species to saline water irrigation. HortScience, 60(6), 940–952. <a href="https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI18286-24?utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI18286-24</a> Whipker, B., Veazie, P., Ballance, M. S., Hicks, K., Owen, W. G., Rich, W. T., Seltsam, L. E., & Cockson, P. (2024). Coleus cultivars nutritional status as a function of leaf coloration. Journal of Plant Nutrition, 47(11), 1867–1877. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1080/01904167.2024.2325939?utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://doi.org/10.1080/01904167.2024.2325939</a> Xing, H., Paudel, A., Hershkowitz, J., & Sun, Y. (2025). Morphological and physiological responses of Cymbopogon citratus and Pennisetum alopecuroides to saline water irrigation. Horticulturae, 11(6), 670. <a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11060670?utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11060670</a> Yafuso, E. J., & Boldt, J. K. (2025). Adjusting the percentage of nitrate in nutrient solution to optimize strawberry stolon and daughter plant production. HortScience, 60(3), 435–445. <a href="https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI18245-24?utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI18245-24</a> Yang, T., Samarakoon, U., Altland, J., & Ling, P. (2024). Influence of electrical conductivity on plant growth, nutritional quality, and phytochemical properties of kale (Brassica napus) and collard (Brassica oleracea) grown using hydroponics. Agronomy, 14(11), 2704. https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14112704 Zhang, Q., Liu, J., Jeong, S. J., Masabni, J., & Niu, G. (2025). Biostimulants applied in seedling stage can improve onion early bulb growth: Cultivar- and fertilizer-type-specific positive effects. Horticulturae, 11(4), 402. <a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11040402?utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11040402</a> Symposium Proceedings Articles (Published): Boldt, J. (2025). A comparison of photosynthetic light response curves of nine tomato cultivars. Acta Horticulturae, 1423, 1–7. <a href="https://doi.org/10.17660/ActaHortic.2025.1423.1?utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://doi.org/10.17660/ActaHortic.2025.1423.1</a> Both, A. J., Bamka, B., Besancon, T., Birnie, D. P., III, Burgher, C., Gimenez, D., Guran, S., Kornitas, M., Nitzsche, P., Robinson, D., Rucker, W. R., Schoolman, E., Specca, D., Sullivan, K., Ward, D., Westendorf, M., & Wyenandt, C. (2025). Lessons learned from three agrivoltaic installations in New Jersey. In Agrivoltaics World Conference 2024 Proceedings. <a href="https://doi.org/10.52825/agripv.v3i.1357?utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://doi.org/10.52825/agripv.v3i.1357</a> Kim, C., & Kubota, C. (2025). Theoretical evaluations of a data-driven tomato leaf pruning method based on weekly light integral at the lowest leaf. Acta Horticulturae, 1423, 113–119. https://doi.org/10.17660/ActaHortic.2025.1423.15 Meng, Q., Ranger, C., Boldt, J., & Runkle, E. S. (2025). A sufficiently high blue photon flux density can promote accumulation of phenolic compounds in hydroponic lettuce. Acta Horticulturae, 1423, 211–218. <a href="https://doi.org/10.17660/ActaHortic.2025.1423.28?utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://doi.org/10.17660/ActaHortic.2025.1423.28</a> Popular (Trade Journal) Articles (Published):  Arment, N., Currey, C. J., & Boldt, J. K. (2025, August). From the greenhouse to the kitchen: Learn how fertilization methods during production affect plants on the retail shelf and post-sale with the consumer. Greenhouse Management, 45(8), 34–38. Hollick, J., & Kubota, C. (2024). How to grow grafted watermelon transplants. e-GRO Edible Alerts, 9(1). <a href="https://www.e-gro.org/pdf/e901.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://www.e-gro.org/pdf/e901.pdf</a> Kuack, D. (2025, July). Affording to automate. Greenhouse Product News. (Interview with A. J. Both). Kubota, C. (2024). UV radiation transmission of common greenhouse glazing materials. e-GRO Edible Alerts, 9(9). <a href="https://www.e-gro.org/pdf/e909.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://www.e-gro.org/pdf/e909.pdf</a> Kubota, C. (2025). Dish evaporation – A simple tool to assess crop transpiration demand in your facility. e-GRO Edible Alerts, 10(5). <a href="https://www.e-gro.org/pdf/e1005.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://www.e-gro.org/pdf/e1005.pdf</a> Liebing, O. J., & Owen, W. G. (2024). Boost your roots: Enhance rooting in woody nursery plants with IBA. e-GRO Alerts, 13(58), 1–6. <a href="https://www.e-gro.org/pdf/2024-13-58.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://www.e-gro.org/pdf/2024-13-58.pdf</a> Liebing, O. J., & Owen, W. G. (2025). Clean up your act: Readying the greenhouse for poinsettia propagation. e-GRO Alerts, 14(26), 1–10. <a href="https://www.e-gro.org/pdf/2025-14-26.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://www.e-gro.org/pdf/2025-14-26.pdf</a> Liebing, O. J., & Owen, W. G. (2025). Keep your cool: Maintenance essentials for fan-and-pad cooling. e-GRO Alerts, 14(22), 1–7. <a href="https://www.e-gro.org/pdf/2025-14-22.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://www.e-gro.org/pdf/2025-14-22.pdf</a> Meng, Q. (2025). Combatting lettuce tipburn with a biostimulant. Inside Grower, 2, 32–33. Nepal, P., Sun, Y., & Oliveria, M. (2025, January 29). Product testing: Research shows benefits of biostimulants may vary by variety. Onion World. Columbia Media Group. <a href="https://onionworld.net/2025/01/29/product-testing-research-shows-benefits-of-biostimulants-may-vary-by-variety/?utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://onionworld.net/2025/01/29/product-testing-research-shows-benefits-of-biostimulants-may-vary-by-variety/</a> Owen, W. G. (2024). Maximizing holiday sales: Innovative display strategies for seasonal plants and décor. e-GRO Alerts, 13(57), 1–12. <a href="https://www.e-gro.org/pdf/2024-13-57.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://www.e-gro.org/pdf/2024-13-57.pdf</a> Owen, W. G. (2024). Slime trails and leaf damage: Effective strategies for managing slugs in poinsettia production. e-GRO Alerts, 13(54), 1–6. <a href="https://www.e-gro.org/pdf/2024-13-54.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://www.e-gro.org/pdf/2024-13-54.pdf</a> Owen, W. G. (2025, February 19). The art of strategic crop grouping in the greenhouse. Greenhouse Management Magazine. <a href="https://www.greenhousemag.com/article/grouping-greenhouse-crops-guide-operations-growth-mindset/?utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://www.greenhousemag.com/article/grouping-greenhouse-crops-guide-operations-growth-mindset/</a> Owen, W. G. (2025, May 15). Drip irrigation strategies: A guide to placement and maintenance. Greenhouse Management Magazine. <a href="https://www.greenhousemag.com/article/drip-irrigation-strategies-for-greenhouses-garrett-owen-ohio-state/?utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://www.greenhousemag.com/article/drip-irrigation-strategies-for-greenhouses-garrett-owen-ohio-state/</a> Owen, W. G. (2025, July 28). Perfecting PourThru: Nutrient monitoring strategies for fall greenhouse crop success. Greenhouse Management Magazine. <a href="https://www.greenhousemag.com/article/pourthru-method-greenhouse-nutrient-monitoring-growth-mindset-garrett-owen/?utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://www.greenhousemag.com/article/pourthru-method-greenhouse-nutrient-monitoring-growth-mindset-garrett-owen/</a> Owen, W. G. (2025). Avoid holding rooted cuttings and plugs too long. e-GRO Alerts, 14(8), 1–7. <a href="https://www.e-gro.org/pdf/2025-14-08.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://www.e-gro.org/pdf/2025-14-08.pdf</a> Owen, W. G. (2025). Best practices for transplanting plug and liners for spring production. e-GRO Alerts, 14(3), 1–8. <a href="https://www.e-gro.org/pdf/2025-14-03.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://www.e-gro.org/pdf/2025-14-03.pdf</a> Owen, W. G. (2025). Proper installation and maintenance of a double-poly greenhouse inflation blower. e-GRO Alerts, 14(5), 1–6. <a href="https://www.e-gro.org/pdf/2025-14-05.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://www.e-gro.org/pdf/2025-14-05.pdf</a> Owen, W. G. (2025). Rooting for success: Best practices in unrooted cutting propagation. e-GRO Alerts, 14(1), 1–12. <a href="https://www.e-gro.org/pdf/2025-14-01.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://www.e-gro.org/pdf/2025-14-01.pdf</a> Owen, W. G. (2025). Strategies and guidelines for herbicide application during outdoor fall crop production. e-GRO Alerts, 14(28), 1–9. <a href="https://www.e-gro.org/pdf/2025-14-28.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://www.e-gro.org/pdf/2025-14-28.pdf</a> Tran, K., Both, A. J., & Kubota, C. (2024). A primer of artificial intelligence for greenhouse control. e-GRO Edible Alerts, 9(8). <a href="https://www.e-gro.org/pdf/e908.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://www.e-gro.org/pdf/e908.pdf</a> Wuetcher, L. T., & Owen, W. G. (2025). Managing daily light integral to improve vegetable transplant quality. e-GRO Edible Alerts, 10(1), 1–8. <a href="https://www.e-gro.org/pdf/e1001.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://www.e-gro.org/pdf/e1001.pdf</a> Presentations (Papers):  Arment, N., Boldt, J., & Currey, C. (2025, July 30). Ammonium to nitrate and nitrogen to phosphorus ratios of commercial fertilizers have limited impact on containerized herb growth [Conference oral presentation]. American Society for Horticultural Science Conference, New Orleans, LA. Arment, N., Boldt, J., & Currey, C. (2025, July 30). Growing environment has a greater effect on containerized basil growth than fertilizer type or concentration [Conference oral presentation]. American Society for Horticultural Science Conference, New Orleans, LA. Arment, N., Currey, C. J., & Boldt, J. K. (2025, August). From the greenhouse to the kitchen: Learn how fertilization methods during production affect plants on the retail shelf and post-sale with the consumer. Greenhouse Management, 45(8), 34–38. Boldt, J., & Yafuso, E. (2024, September 27). Development of a pH management protocol for strawberry mother plants grown in deep water culture [Conference oral presentation]. American Society for Horticultural Science Conference, Honolulu, HI. HortScience, 59(9S), S492. <a href="https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI.59.9S.S1?utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI.59.9S.S1</a> Boldt, J., & Yafuso, E. (2024, September 27). Foliar nutrient concentrations of strawberry mother and daughter plants grown in controlled environments [Poster presentation]. American Society for Horticultural Science Conference, Honolulu, HI. HortScience, 59(9S), S428. <a href="https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI.59.9S.S1?utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI.59.9S.S1</a> Boldt, J., & Yafuso, E. (2025, July 29). Increasing fertilizer nitrogen concentration improves strawberry daughter plant quality but does not increase yield [Conference oral presentation]. American Society for Horticultural Science Conference, New Orleans, LA. Both, A. J. (2025, February 5). Agrivoltaics 101 [Abstract]. Proceedings of the 70th New Jersey Agricultural Convention and Trade Show. Christensen, E., Drost, D. T., & Sun, Y. (2025, February 11). Biostimulant applications in watermelon production [Conference presentation]. Utah Onion Association and Northern Utah Vegetable Grower Meeting, Brigham City, UT. Christensen, E., Drost, D. T., & Sun, Y. (2025, February 18). Biostimulant applications in watermelon production [Conference presentation]. USU Urban and Small Farms Conference, Zoom. Craver, J., Boldt, J., Harbick, K., & Rosado, S. P. (2025, July 31). Short-term carbon dioxide enrichment results in physiological acclimation within one week for strawberry [Poster presentation]. American Society for Horticultural Science Conference, New Orleans, LA. Easter, M., Chen, Z., & Park, Y. (2024). Identifying the optimal range of pH management for hydroponic leafy vegetables [Poster presentation]. HortScience, 59(9S), S272. Kramer, H., Boldt, J., & Currey, C. (2025, July 30). Increasing micronutrient concentrations does not mitigate high pH nutrient solution-induced growth suppression [Conference oral presentation]. American Society for Horticultural Science Conference, New Orleans, LA. Kramer, H., Boldt, J., & Currey, C. (2025, July 30). Quantifying effects of pH on the growth of fresh-cut culinary herbs in recirculating nutrient solutions [Conference oral presentation]. American Society for Horticultural Science Conference, New Orleans, LA. Lee, W. F., Ling, P., & Wilson, A. (2025, June 22–27). High tunnel temperature and outdoor weather forecasting using machine learning [Conference presentation]. GreenSys2025 – International Symposium on Advanced Technologies and Management for Sustainable Greenhouse Systems, Almeria, Spain. Ling, P., & Si, S. (2025, July 16). Intelligent sprayer for young plant disease detection [Conference presentation]. OHCEAC Annual CEA Conference, Columbus, OH. Maxwell, T., Boldt, J., Felix, E., & Park, Y. (2025, July 30). Investigating silicon supplementation for lettuce grown with food waste-based anaerobic digestate [Conference oral presentation]. American Society for Horticultural Science Conference, New Orleans, LA. Meng, Q., & Kramer, T. (2024). Increasing the nighttime lighting duration can hasten flowering of long-day plants [Abstract, oral presentation]. HortScience, 59(9S), S462. Meng, Q., & Msabila, S. (2024). An intermediate calcium-mobilizing biostimulant concentration controls tipburn of two greenhouse hydroponic lettuce cultivars without affecting growth [Abstract, oral presentation]. HortScience, 59(9S), S237. Nepal, P., & Sun, Y. (2024, September 25). Effects of nitrogen on the nodulation of Ceanothus velutinus [Conference presentation]. ASHS Annual Conference, Honolulu, HI. Nepal, P., Drost, D. T., & Sun, Y. (2024, September 25). Assessing the efficacy of plant biostimulants on onion growth and production in greenhouse and field trials [Conference presentation]. ASHS Annual Conference, Honolulu, HI. Nepal, P., Sun, Y., & Drost, D. T. (2025, February 11). Assessing biostimulants for onion growth and production under stress conditions [Conference presentation]. Utah Onion Association and Northern Utah Vegetable Grower Meeting, Brigham City, UT. Ries, J., & Park, Y. (2024). How does supplementing dissolved oxygen impact hydroponic strawberry production? [Poster presentation]. HortScience, 59(9S), S274. Ries, J., & Park, Y. (2024). Will increasing the potassium to nitrogen ratio benefit hydroponic strawberry production? [Abstract, oral presentation]. HortScience, 59(9S), S147. Romero, Y., Boldt, J., Calvert, M., Craver, J., Harbick, K., Holley, J., Rosado, S. P., & Sanchez, G. (2025, July 30). Carbon dioxide enrichment increases yield without negatively affecting fruit quality of everbearing strawberries produced in controlled environments [Conference oral presentation]. American Society for Horticultural Science Conference, New Orleans, LA. Si, G., Ling, P., Zhu, H., Testen, A., & Jeon, H. (2025, July 16). Automated non-contact disease detection of young tomato seedlings using machine learning processed spectral data [Conference presentation]. OHCEAC Annual Conference, Columbus, OH. Subedi, P., Yang, T., & Williams, K. (2025, July 1). Optimizing nutrient solution volume for hydroponic production of four leafy greens species based on growth, nutrient content, and postharvest characteristics [Conference oral presentation]. ASHS 2025, New Orleans, LA. Veazie, P., Boldt, J., & Whipker, B. (2024, September 27). The use of machine learning to develop refined foliar tissue analysis standards and diagnostic tools for petunia [Conference oral presentation]. American Society for Horticultural Science Conference, Honolulu, HI. HortScience, 59(9S), S444. <a href="https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI.59.9S.S1?utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI.59.9S.S1</a> Webb, E., Chen, Z., & Park, Y. (2024). Growth responses of hydroponic vegetable transplants to nutrient solution concentrations made with food waste liquid anaerobic digestate [Abstract, oral presentation]. HortScience, 59(9S), S336. Wu, G., & Zhang, Q. (2025, February). Spinach cultivation in deep water culture hydroponic system [Poster presentation]. North Mississippi PAC Meeting, Verona, MS. Zhang, Q. (2024, December). Optimizing spinach hydroponic production through cultivar selection and tailored nutrient solutions in deep water culture systems [Invited talk]. Specialty Crops Conference, Hattiesburg, MS. Zhang, Q. (2025, February). Hydroponic and organic vegetable production [Invited talk]. North Mississippi Research and Extension Center Vegetable Short Course, Verona, MS. Yafuso, E., & Boldt, J. (2024, September 27). Increasing nutrient solution electrical conductivity increases vegetative growth of strawberry [Conference oral presentation]. American Society for Horticultural Science Conference, Honolulu, HI. HortScience, 59(9S), S429. <a href="https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI.59.9S.S1?utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI.59.9S.S1</a> Yafuso, E., & Boldt, J. (2024, September 27). The nitrate to ammonium ratio impacts strawberry runnering and daughter plant number [Conference oral presentation]. American Society for Horticultural Science Conference, Honolulu, HI. HortScience, 59(9S), S430. <a href="https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI.59.9S.S1?utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI.59.9S.S1</a> Other Creative Works: Both, A. J. (2025, March 15). Greenhouses for homeowners and gardeners [Conference oral presentation]. Home Gardeners School, Rutgers Office of Continuing Professional Education. Controlled Environment Hydroponic Crop Production Workshop. (n.d.). College Station, TX. Nepal, P., & Sun, Y. (2024). Effects of nitrogen on the nodulation of Ceanothus velutinus [Abstract]. HortScience, 59(9), S180. Nepal, P., Sun, Y., & Drost, D. T. (2024). Assessing the efficacy of plant biostimulants on onion growth and production in greenhouse trials and field conditions [Abstract]. HortScience, 59(9), S150. Owen, W. G. (2025, January 29). Pest prevention starts with delivery. e-GRO Blog. <a href="https://www.egroblog.com/showblog.php?ID=237&utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://www.egroblog.com/showblog.php?ID=237</a> Owen, W. G. (2025, February 6). Avoiding primula pitfalls: A grower’s guide to pH and EC management. e-GRO Blog. <a href="https://www.egroblog.com/showblog.php?ID=238&utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://www.egroblog.com/showblog.php?ID=238</a> Owen, W. G. (2025, February 20). Russet mites: A tiny threat to greenhouse tomatoes. e-GRO Blog. <a href="https://www.egroblog.com/showblog.php?ID=240&utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://www.egroblog.com/showblog.php?ID=240</a> Owen, W. G. (2025, February 25). The price of oversight: Avoiding phytotoxicity in greenhouse crops. e-GRO Blog. <a href="https://www.egroblog.com/showblog.php?ID=241&utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://www.egroblog.com/showblog.php?ID=241</a> Owen, W. G. (2025, June 26). Managing heat stress in greenhouse crops and employees. e-GRO Blog. <a href="https://www.egroblog.com/showblog.php?ID=252&utm_source=chatgpt.com">https://www.egroblog.com/showblog.php?ID=252</a> Workshop Sponsor: Both, A. J. (2025, February 5). Agrivoltaics [Conference session]. 70th New Jersey Agricultural Convention and Trade Show. United States Department of Agriculture – Hispanic-Serving Institutions (USDA–HSI). (2025). Meeting at Texas A&M. Workshop Participant: Boldt, J. (2024, October 23). USDA-ARS floriculture research update: Strawberries, culinary herbs, and light use efficiency [Conference presentation]. Floriculture Research Alliance, Oceanside, CA. Boldt, J. (2024, October 24). Strawberry daughter plant management and culinary herb production [Conference presentation]. Root Alliance, Oceanside, CA. Boldt, J. (2025, July 13). Silicon applications for plant health [Conference presentation]. Cultivate’25, Columbus, OH. Boldt, J. (2025, July 16). Improving the stress tolerance of young plants with supplemental silicon [Conference presentation]. Ohio Controlled Environment Agriculture Center (OHCEAC) Conference, Columbus, OH. United States Department of Agriculture – Hispanic-Serving Institutions (USDA–HSI). (2025). Workshop at Texas A&M with participation from 29 undergraduate and graduate students from the University of Houston and Texas A&M University. Zhang, Q. (2025, March). Set up a hydroponic system at your home [Invited talk]. Leake County Workshop, online. Zhang, Q. (2025, April). Hydroponic for beginners [Invited talk]. Franklin County Workshop, Meadville, MS. Zhang, Q. (2025, June). Set up a hydroponic system at your home [Presentation and demonstration]. First Day of Summer Field Day, Crystal Springs, MS. Zhang, Q. (2025, June). Set up a hydroponic system at your home [Invited talk]. National Master Gardener Club, online. Refereed Journal Articles (Pending): Brewer, D. S., Walters, K. J., Armstrong, S. P., Boldt, J. K., & Lopez, R. G. (n.d.). Quantifying the influence of blue or blue + red end-of-production sole-source lighting on red leaf lettuce (Lactuca sativa). Manuscript submitted for publication. Horticulturae. Clade, D., Boldt, J., Hicks, K., Currey, C., Flax, N., Walters, K., & Whipker, B. (n.d.). Establishing leaf tissue nutrient standards and deficiency symptomology of cilantro (Coriandrum sativum). Manuscript submitted for publication. Applied Sciences. Clade, D., Veazie, P., Boldt, J., Hicks, K., & Whipker, B. (2025). Defining leaf tissue nutrient standards and nutrient disorder symptomology of greenhouse-grown spearmint (Mentha spicata). HortScience. (Accepted). Clade, D., Veazie, P., Boldt, J., Hicks, K., Currey, C., Walters, K., Flax, N., Owen, W. G., & Whipker, B. (n.d.). Refining foliar nutrient standards and nutrient disorder symptomology of greenhouse-grown basil (Ocimum basilicum L.). Manuscript submitted for publication. HortScience. Clade, D., Veazie, P., Boldt, J., Hicks, K., Currey, C., Flax, N., Walters, K., & Whipker, B. (n.d.). Refining leaf tissue nutrient standards and symptomology of nutrient disorders in parsley (Petroselinum crispum). Manuscript submitted for publication. Journal of Soil Science and Plant Nutrition. Clade, D., Veazie, P., Boldt, J., Hicks, K., & Whipker, B. (n.d.). Establishing leaf tissue nutrient standards and symptomology of nutrient disorders in greenhouse-grown rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis). Manuscript submitted for publication. Communications in Soil Science and Plant Analysis. Kim, C., & Kubota, C. (n.d.). Data-driven leaf pruning based on weekly light integral: Importance of adaptive defoliation strategy. Manuscript submitted for publication. Frontiers in Plant Science. Yang, T., Samarakoon, U., & Altland, J. (n.d.). Modified nutrient management protocol for optimum biomass production, nutritional quality, and flavor-related phytochemical properties of hydroponic-grown kale (Brassica oleracea ‘Red Russian’). Manuscript submitted for publication. Frontiers in Plant Science.

Impact Statements

We identify improved lighting and CO₂ management strategies that advance the feasibility of indoor tomato production, expanding crop options for indoor agriculture, and we train students in resource-efficient production practices that strengthen the CEA workforce.
We demonstrate that combining biostimulants with organic fertilizers produces synergistic gains in crop performance; this integration improves nutrient uptake—especially nitrate—mitigates growth constraints, and supports more sustainable, productive systems.
We validate food-waste liquid anaerobic digestate as an effective fertilizer for hydroponic leafy greens; by optimizing ozone treatment and managing EC and pH, we increase nitrogen availability and plant growth, advancing circular food systems and accelerating adoption with growers and technology partners.
We reduce lettuce tipburn severity by 71–96% in greenhouses using a chemical biostimulant without sacrificing yield, enabling broader industry adoption to improve crop quality and marketable harvests while actively disseminating results to growers and agrochemical stakeholders.
We deliver research-driven designs and operating strategies that save an average 1-acre greenhouse $25,000 annually in O&M costs and achieve 5–30% energy savings, increasing profitability and resilience across commercial operations.
We expand regional CEA capacity by securing competitive funding (e.g., Southern SARE), launching a hydroponic training program for extension agents and mentor farmers (start: July 1, 2025), delivering three beginner trainings, and advancing two research studies toward presentations and publications.
We show that snow peas perform well in greenhouses using NFT or soilless containers, while carrots in NFT develop splitting and fibrous roots, guiding growers toward viable crop choices and away from unproductive configurations.
We promote salt-tolerant and water-stress-resilient plants for greenhouse, nursery, and urban landscapes, improving specialty crop quality, reducing irrigation and inputs, increasing returns, and strengthening the Green Industry’s competitiveness and sustainability.
We improve nutrient management by optimizing nitrogen application, enhancing crop quality while reducing fertilizer inputs and runoff, thereby increasing economic returns and supporting environmental stewardship.

Date of Annual Report: 08/19/2025

Report Information

Annual Meeting Dates: 07/28/2025 - 07/28/2025
Period the Report Covers: 08/01/2024 - 09/30/2025