Crocus Labs has developed a lighting control system that turns existing multichannel LED setups into adaptive lighting platforms. The Berlin-based company says the system is already being tested in research greenhouses, including trials on lettuce, basil, blueberries, and strawberries at the James Hutton Institute, and offers real-time spectral adjustments based on environmental data.
"Our adaptable lighting system operates by dynamically adjusting the light spectrum in real time, based on continuous input from environmental sensors and, in the future, plant-specific sensors and AI analysis," says Dr. Prashanth Makaram, CEO and founder of Crocus Labs. "The platform includes a four-channel lighting array, intelligent controllers, and spectral sensors. It integrates via the industry-standard Modbus protocol, allowing it to connect with most farm automation systems."
© Crocus Labs
Crocus Labs' adaptive lighting setup at the James Hutton Institute greenhouse
Modular and retrofit-ready
Crocus Labs emphasizes that the system can work with a wide range of existing hardware. "Our system is designed to integrate with virtually any existing multi-channel lighting setup," Makaram says. "This ability to retrofit existing systems is a key differentiator and makes our technology more accessible to a wider range of growers."
One of its goals is to provide a cost-effective upgrade path for operators without requiring a full infrastructure overhaul. According to Makaram, the system's adaptability also enables collaboration with other lighting manufacturers, expanding its use across different growing environments.
Sensor-driven control with AI on the horizon
"Our spectral sensors are the eyes of our intelligent lighting system," Makaram explains. "They continuously measure light intensity across various wavelengths and monitor critical environmental parameters like temperature and humidity."
While the AI component is still in development, Makaram says it will offer further benefits. "AI will enable truly autonomous adjustments to light spectrums and intensities based on complex data analysis, leading to even greater reductions in energy consumption, significant improvements in crop yield and quality, and dynamic adaptation to ever-changing environmental conditions and plant needs."
Pilot trials and industry demand
Crocus Labs says demand for the platform has increased among vertical farms, greenhouse operators, and research institutions. "We are experiencing a significant increase in demand for our adaptable lighting technology across various sectors of CEA," Makaram says.
The company is targeting growers of high-value crops and facilities with strong R&D focus. "Growers of high-value crops where quality and consistency are paramount, research institutions conducting cutting-edge plant science, and greenhouse operators with a strong focus on balancing sustainability with high yields and superior quality stand to gain the most from implementing our system."
Crocus Labs is now looking for pilot projects and strategic collaborators. "We seek pilot projects and strategic partners who share our vision of advancing energy-efficient and autonomous greenhouse solutions," Makaram says. "Ideal collaborations involve innovative growers or organizations eager to enhance their R&D capabilities."
© Crocus Labs
Strawberries grown under Crocus Labs' dynamic lighting system, showing visible stages of ripening under controlled spectrum adjustments
Energy performance and next steps
The company says early trials have shown strong performance across multiple crops. "Early trials and pilot installations of our adaptable lighting system have yielded compelling results, demonstrating significant energy savings and highly tailored light optimization," says Makaram. The platform was credited with a 22% improvement in energy efficiency during internal strawberry trials.
Long-term, Crocus Labs sees the system as a foundational element of smart farming. "Our adaptable lighting system is poised to be a cornerstone of the future of energy-efficient and data-driven agriculture," Makaram says. "The ability to integrate with existing infrastructure and connect with broader farm management systems further solidifies its role in the future of smart agriculture."
For more information:
Crocus Labs
Dr. Prashanth Makaram, CEO and Co-Founder
prash@crocuslabs.com
www.crocuslabs.com