| This thesis defines the characteristics of Chenopodium quinoa grown under controlled-environment, hydroponic conditions. Proximate composition, lipid, amino acid, vitamin, and mineral analyses were conducted on both seed and leaf tissue. Preliminary trials on 10 cultivars were conducted in a greenhouse to determine the proper cultivar for growth chamber trials. Optimal lighting conditions for maintaining short stature while preserving a high seed yield included short day length (8 h) and high irradiance (1800 mumol m-2 s-1). The controlled-environment production of quinoa yielded harvest indices, similar to the highest reported from the field. Including the other edible portions of the plant would increase the harvest index to greater than 90%. Seed and leaf protein content was exceptionally high (20.9%). The high protein concentration, unique amino acid composition, high mineral and vitamin content, versatility in preparation, and potential for greatly increased yields in controlled environments could make quinoa a useful crop for controlled-environment production and for further consideration as a field crop. |
