Plant leaves and cuttings can turn from their natural green to a concerning purple for various reasons, including anthocyanin build-up and nutrient deficiencies. Recently, a new concern has emerged: young plants turning purple when grown under LED lighting. Is this issue exacerbated by LED grow lights, or is it a new challenge altogether?
Understanding the Issue
The American Floral Endowment (AFE) is set to address this critical topic in its upcoming webinar on July 30, 2024. This webinar is part of the ongoing Grow Pro series, which aims to provide valuable knowledge to the horticultural community. The session, titled “Preventing Undesirable Purple Coloration on Cuttings Propagated Under LEDs,” will be led by Dr. Roberto Lopez, an Associate Professor and Controlled Environment/Floriculture Extension Specialist at Michigan State University. The webinar will be moderated by Dr. Haramrit Gill, an Environmental Horticulture Advisor at the University of California.
Key Topics to be Covered
The webinar will explore several key aspects related to the purple discoloration of plants under LED lights:
- Anthocyanin Accumulation: This naturally occurring pigment can cause leaves to turn purple, often in response to stress or specific environmental conditions. Understanding its role is crucial for diagnosing and addressing purpling issues.
- Nutrient Deficiencies: A lack of essential nutrients, such as phosphorus, can lead to purpling in plants. The webinar will delve into how LED lighting might influence nutrient uptake and metabolism.
- Environmental Stressors: Factors such as temperature fluctuations, light intensity, and humidity can contribute to plant purpling. The webinar will discuss how to manage these stressors effectively.
Expert Insights
Dr. Roberto Lopez, who has a Ph.D. from Michigan State University and extensive experience in floriculture and controlled environment agriculture, will provide valuable insights into mitigating and managing purpling problems. His expertise will help participants understand whether LED grow lights are causing an entirely new issue or merely exacerbating existing conditions.
Registration and Access
Participants can register for the webinar through Zoom or by visiting the Grow Pro Webinar series page on the AFE website. The AFE also offers recordings of past webinars on their YouTube channel, providing a wealth of knowledge for those who cannot attend live sessions.
Understanding and preventing the purpling of plants under LED lighting is crucial for optimizing plant health and productivity. The upcoming webinar by the American Floral Endowment offers an excellent opportunity for growers, agronomists, and agricultural engineers to gain expert knowledge on this issue. By addressing the root causes and potential solutions, participants can enhance their cultivation practices and ensure healthier, more vibrant plants.
