Harvest¶
Timing¶
Harvest timing depends on crop, nutrient concentration, light intensity, and temperature. Signs of readiness vary by plant.
| Crop | Typical time from transplant | Indicator |
|---|---|---|
| Lettuce (leafy) | 4–6 weeks | Full head size, before bolting |
| Basil | 3–5 weeks | Dense leaf growth, before flowering |
| Other crops | TBD | TBD |
Technique¶
- Pull or cut the plant at the base.
- For cut-and-come-again crops (basil, some lettuces), leave the root and lower leaves — the plant may regrow.
- Immediately replace with the next transplant from the nursery to maintain throughput.
Post-Harvest Storage¶
Hydroponically grown leafy greens are highly perishable.
- Store at or below 4 °C (refrigerator) immediately after harvest.
- Do not wash until just before use.
- Consume within 3–5 days for best quality.