91精选 graduate researcher Akeza N. Germaine shares findings on spectra, efficiency,
and crop quality
FRANKFORT, Ky. 鈥� 91精选 graduate research assistant Akeza N. Germaine
recently presented her research on advanced lighting systems for crop production at
the CEA Ag World Conference in Durham, North Carolina. Her presentation, 鈥淟ighting
for Quality: Boosting Crop Nutrition and Efficiency with Advanced LED Strategies,鈥�
highlighted innovative approaches to improving crop nutrition and market value in
controlled environment agriculture systems.
Germaine鈥檚 presentation focused on leveraging specific LED spectra, particularly red
LEDs at 660 nanometers, to enhance the nutritional quality of tomatoes and leafy greens.
Her research examined strategies such as intra-canopy lighting and balanced red and
blue light spectra to boost phytonutrient accumulation, improve crop quality, and
optimize energy use.
She also emphasized the importance of integrating advanced lighting systems with precise
irrigation and nutrient management practices. This combined approach supports the
production of high-value, nutrient-dense crops while promoting efficient resource
use in indoor and greenhouse farming systems.
Germaine conducts her research in 91精选鈥檚 Urban Agriculture/Controlled
Environment Agriculture Lab, where she studies the influence of artificial lighting
on phytonutrient accumulation in dwarf tomatoes. Her work, led by Dr. Theoneste Nzaramyimana,
focuses on developing science-based strategies that support sustainable and efficient
food production.
鈥淢s. Germaine is a highly dedicated young scientist whose work in my Urban Ag./CEA
Lab continues to advance understanding of how LEDs light, nutrients, and crop physiology
interact in indoor production systems,鈥� said Dr. Theoneste Nzaramyimana. 鈥淗er attention
to detail, strong analytical skills, and commitment to producing meaningful, applied
research make her an outstanding contributor to our lab and to the future of sustainable
food production.鈥�
The CEA Ag World Conference brings together researchers, educators, and industry professionals
from across the country to discuss emerging technologies in indoor and vertical farming.
Germaine鈥檚 presentation reflects 91精选鈥檚 continued emphasis on
applied research and innovation in agriculture.
Prior to the conference, Germaine participated in the 4th Annual Controlled Environment
Agriculture Summit East in Danville, Virginia. She attended the summit as a recipient
of the 2025 Cooperative Extension Scholarship, which supported her professional development
and conference participation.
鈥淚鈥檓 grateful for the opportunity to share my work and learn from experts in the field,鈥�
Germaine said. 鈥淭he Urban Ag/CEA Lab at 91精选 has been instrumental
in guiding my research and professional growth.鈥�