Evaluation of Biological Traits and Bioactive Compounds in Several Spinach Varieties (Spinacia oleracea L.) grown in a Vertical Hydroponic System

Abstract

The implementation of breeding programs for indoor vertical farms has been increasing to provide new varieties that have higher nutritional contents and morphological traits fitted to these sustainable production systems. Spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) is one of the fastest-growing, nutrient-dense leafy vegetables to grow indoors. In Vietnam, market demand for spinach is growing together with the expansion of soilless cultivation technologies such as hydroponics and vertical farming. This research aimed to evaluate the growth parameters, initially screening the relationship between yield and biological traits, of 12 spinach varieties. In addition, this research also aimed to evaluate the lutein, vitamin C, total flavonoid, and carbohydrate contents in different varieties of spinach and their correlations with morphological traits. The research outcomes revealed significant positive correlations between plant weight and leaf area. Three spinach varieties belonging to the smooth leaf type (“AD”, “CH”, and “DT”) were the top three yielding under low light conditions. There were significant differences in the lutein content among varieties. “Red” and “Mikado” were the two highest varieties for lutein content. Vitamin C and total flavonoid contents were statistically similar in the tested varieties, while the carbohydrate content was slightly different among them. This research firstly suggested better suited spinach varieties to be grown in vertical farming conditions, and secondly, provided breeders information on trait identifications to prepare breeding materials for vertical farms