Evaluación de los efectos de la fertilización foliar con micronutrientes en el cultivo vertical de Lactuca sativa mediante índices espectrales

Abstract

Vertical farming emerges as a viable solution to space shortages, population growth, and limited resources by using urban-adapted production structures that optimize water, energy, and nutrient use while delivering fresh, safe food. This study evaluated the effect of foliar micronutrient applications in a vertical hydroponic system, testing five weekly treatments: 0 g/L, 0.5 g/L, 1 g/L, 1.5 g/L, and a micronutrient solution at 0.5 mL/L. Although plant development progressed steadily, the key morphological traits for commercialization did not differ significantly among treatments. A relationship between aboveground growth and root development was observed, but it was not consistent across all treatments. Multispectral indices revealed physiological variations in the crop, helping to assess overall plant health. While RGB sensors proved useful, they fell short compared to sensors that include the near- infrared (NIR) band. In terms of production efficiency, the vertical system was effective for hydroponic cultivation, achieving optimal Brix levels and high planting densities at competitive unit costs. Combining non‑destructive monitoring technologies with targeted foliar fertilization offers an efficient, sustainable strategy with great potential to boost urban crop yields by optimizing both input use and real‑time physiological monitoring.