Aranet and Ledgnd recently announced the joint launch of a new Light Spectrum sensor designed to provide growers with real-time visibility into the spectral composition of greenhouse lighting. The device, which captures spectrum data from 350 to 950 nanometers, offers broader capabilities than conventional PAR sensors by allowing growers to monitor both light intensity and quality across the full spectral range.
Set to debut at GreenTech Amsterdam, the sensor is wirelessly connected to Aranet Cloud and Ledgnd's MyLedgnd platform, delivering dynamic visualizations, actionable insights, and the ability to integrate spectrum data with climate and plant feedback sensors. While field deployment is expected to begin in July, initial trials have revealed critical variances between assumed and actual crop-level light conditions.
Bridging a data gap in horticulture
"There has not been any reliable real-time spectrum data available in horticulture," said Maarten van Bemmel, Product Owner at Ledgnd. "We saw the need for a solution that could break down spectral distribution and provide wireless, high-frequency measurements in commercial greenhouses."
The collaboration builds on a relationship that began in 2021, with Ledgnd using Aranet's wireless sensors to enhance MyLedgnd's decision-support capabilities. The co-developed spectrum sensor is the first to deliver continuous, customizable interval readings across a much broader range than the typical 400 to 700 nm span of PAR sensors.
"A PAR sensor gives the sum of light at a specific moment in time between 400 and 700 nm," van Bemmel explained. "The spectrum sensor does this within and outside of that range, and breaks down the spectral distribution of light. You can see the intensity per color between 350 and 950 nm, in real time."
A shift toward dynamic spectral steering
For growers moving to LED systems, managing light quality, not just quantity, has become essential. Many LED fixtures now allow channel-by-channel dimming, and the new sensor helps inform those adjustments.
"LED chips have different energy efficiencies depending on their color," van Bemmel noted. "Growers can dim or switch off less efficient chips, such as far-red, when natural daylight already provides enough of that wavelength. At the same time, they can boost the more efficient red chips, which reduces energy consumption and extends system life."
This kind of spectral steering can also help mitigate uneven light distribution at crop level. In preliminary trials, van Bemmel said growers were surprised by the discrepancies between their expectations and actual spectral conditions at plant height. "You can't optimize what you can't measure. That's why spectrum matters."
From sensor to strategy: MyLedgnd integration
The sensor's integration into MyLedgnd offers more than data collection; it creates a feedback loop between environment, crop response, and lighting control. "We're working toward fully dynamic LED steering," van Bemmel said. "MyLedgnd doesn't just visualize climate and lighting, it contextualizes the data so growers can make decisions quickly and confidently."
When paired with plant feedback sensors, the platform gives users a comprehensive picture of how crops are responding to different light spectra under varying environmental conditions. Users can configure measurement intervals (typically every five minutes), place the sensor anywhere in the growing environment, and view results in real time through either MyLedgnd or Aranet Cloud. For existing users of either platform, the sensor is plug-and-play. Ledgnd is also in discussions with climate computer manufacturers to support integration into automated control systems.
Accessible pricing and broader potential
According to van Bemmel, the sensor will retail for 995 EUR, with an additional cloud fee for data processing. "We want this to be accessible. That's been a key part of the development approach," he said.
Though designed with horticulture and vertical farming in mind, the technology may have applications beyond food production. Erik an der Made, Business Developer at Aranet, pointed to the potential for deployment in buildings where LED lighting is used. "Certain light mixes have been shown to influence human well-being. There may be future opportunities in that area as well."
Looking ahead
What's next for the Aranet and Ledgnd partnership? Steering based on spectral feedback is the next milestone. "The goal is to calculate the ROI of dimming strategies based on real-time spectrum data," van Bemmel said. "This will allow growers to balance energy savings with optimal plant development."
Aranet's an der Made added, "As LED light deployments evolve, we'll continue listening to the market. If new needs emerge, if more data is required, we'll look to develop the next solution together."
Growers interested in seeing the sensor in action can visit Ledgnd (booth 02.231) or Aranet (booth 01.625) during GreenTech Amsterdam from June 10 to 12.
For more information:
Ledgnd B.V.
[email protected]
www.ledgnd.com
