Mr Andrew Fuller, Technical Director of the Bridge Farm Group, interviewed by Shane Torpey of MIGRO, explains how incorporating Ceravision's UV grow-light for its industrial hemp cultivation boosted cannabinoids by 40%.
Interviewed at Bridge Farm Group’s herb nursery, Andrew explains how he has been experimenting with Ceravision’s UV grow-light to complement the high pressure sodium (HPS) fixtures on its industrial hemp crops. The results revealed that by applying the UV grow-light at the end of the crop, terpene oil production was boosted by 25% to 40%. The trials were extended to include other herbs, including rosemary and lavender to improve oil content, flavour and taste.
In these price competitive markets, Andrew is always looking to differentiate his products and the results with UV reveal significant improvements in taste and flavour that will help give him an edge with supermarket buyers and their discerning customers.
He uses HPS lamps and is exploring the latest LED fixtures but incorporating them with Ceravision’s high output UV lamps. The results have been very exciting and Andrew will continue the trials to explore further benefits and determine the best time to apply the UV to optimise the added value for different crops.
Worldwide research is progressively demonstrating the vital importance of UV in the 280-400nm range from cultivation to consumption. For most plants this range strengthens root systems, boosts secondary metabolites to improve nutritional and medicinal values, and bolsters resistance to pathogens and pests. However, this vital UV-A/UV-B spectral range is blocked by greenhouse glass and not delivered in any strength by other grow-lights. Ceravision’s UV unit tackles this conundrum.
Ceravision’s grow-light has a spectral output concentrated in the high energy 280-550nm range to complement HPS and LED grow-lights and better replicate solar radiation.
Bridge Farm Group, the European arm of the NASDAQ listed Sundial Group, is the leading producer of ornamental plants, flowers and herbs in the UK. Using the most innovative techniques in the industry, it sells more than 80 million units per year to retailers and consumers across the globe.
Shane Torpey is founder of Partech LED Ltd trading as MIGRO. As a manufacturing engineer, Shane is always keen to explore new ideas and products and to provide independent research and advice on horticulture lighting to help raise awareness and educate industry buyers. MIGRO has also developed its own LED grow lights.
For more information:
Ceravision
Sherbourne Drive
Tilbrook
Milton Keynes
MK7 8HX
United Kingdom
+44(0) 1908 371463
info@ceravision.com
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