Effects of a radiation-reducing film on light quantity and quality and subsequent impacts on glasshouse grown Capsicum annuum

Abstract

Sensor technology is an important component in protected cropping (PC) agriculture to improve crop growth and maximise yields. The thesis provided a literature review of sensor technology for growers to monitor environmental conditions, as well as plant responses and disease. In the experimental component, we assessed the impact of a residential building film (SG) on light quantity and quality, and subsequently on the growth and yield response of C. annuum. SG significantly altered light quantity and quality and had differential impacts on crop development and yield of C. annuum depending on planting time, how much time the crop grew during light-limited versus sufficient light conditions, and whether SG significantly reduced DLI. To further assess daily and annual light quality changes, a low-cost mini-spectroradiometer was prototyped and with additional development, may be an affordable option for growers to use to identify spectral changes due to natural environment, different cover materials and LED lighting/supplemental lighting. In conclusion, SG was not appropriate for capsicum production because it significantly reduced yield in SE despite potential reductions in energy use. The Minispec prototype was not a suitable sensor system to capture the total quantity of light. However, the thesis yielded very valuable data which will be used to design the next generation of SG and further develop the Minispec as a low-cost alternative to commercial systems.

Date of Award	2022
Original language	English