A recent study has delved into how different light spectra affect the growth and antioxidant properties of basil microgreens. Researchers assessed five species: peppermint, Thai basil, cumin, lemon basil, and green holy basil. The findings revealed that green light consistently led to taller plants across all species, while blue light notably increased plant width in certain cases.
The study also examined antioxidant activities, observing variations in Total Phenolic Content (TPC) and Flavonoid Content (TFC) across different light treatments and plant species. Generally, white and red light enhanced TPC levels; however, blue light unexpectedly showed the highest TPC at specific times. Additionally, the analysis of DPPH Radical Scavenging activity indicated diverse temporal responses to light spectra, with blue light exhibiting exceptional activity in early stages, and white and red light showing increased activity at later stages.
These results highlight the importance of customised light regimes to optimise growth parameters and boost antioxidant activities in cultivated plants, offering promising avenues for sustainable agriculture and food production practices.
The study, titled “Assessing light spectrum impact on growth and antioxidant properties of basil family microgreens,” was published in Scientific Reports. The authors include Akira Thongtip, Kriengkrai Mosaleeyanon, and S. Janta.
