Advancing Protected Cultivation: A Pathway for Nutrient-Rich Vegetables
Nazim S. Gruda, Victor M. Gallegos‐Cedillo, Cinthia Nájera, Catalina Egea‐Gilabert, J. Ochoa, J.A. Fernández
Abstract
Protected cultivation boosts crop productivity and quality, addressing dietary challenges amid climate change. Greenhouse-grown vegetables, comprising 60% of global market value, offer superior quality and year-round availability. While research has examined external factors and physiological disorders, comprehensive reviews utilizing a systematic search approach focusing on the direct impact of agronomic and cultural practices on nutritional quality remain limited. Our analysis highlights a key trend: most studies in the past decade have prioritized agrotechnological innovations. This review explores explicitly how these innovative practices—such as biofortification, deficit irrigation, controlled nutrient eustress, biostimulants, and sustainable techniques, like grafting—can enhance bioactive compounds, vitamins, and nutrients. Recent studies show a strong correlation (R² = 0.97–0.98) between these innovations and improved nutritional quality. We hypothesize that optimizing these factors in protected cultivation can enhance vegetable nutrient content. Seasonal adjustments and precise harvest timing further ensure consistent quality. Tailoring practices to specific crops maximizes nutrient value, particularly benefiting vulnerable populations facing ‘hidden hunger.’ Holistic optimization of nutritional quality requires understanding the complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and farming factors; however, this review provides a foundational analysis by detailing the specific contributions of agronomic and cultural practices. Furthermore, while tradeoffs between yield and quality may exist, targeted strategies can produce nutrient-dense vegetables, supporting sustainable and resilient food systems.