Dataset on Optimizing Planting Density for Increased Resource Use Efficiency in Baby-Leaf Production of Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) and Basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) in Vertical Farms

This document contains the database of measured and calculated indexes on resource use efficiency of baby-leaf production of lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) and basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) in vertical farm systems. This study tested three different planting densities, namely 123 (low density, LD), 237 (medium density, MD), and 680 (high density, HD) plant m-2. Destructive measurements were performed at 15, 22, and 29 days after sowing. Light and energy use efficiency were calculated based on both dry and fresh yields. Additionally, morphological parameters (e.g., plant height and leaf area index) and physiological parameters (e.g., stomatal conductance and chlorophyll content) were measured. All data were collected at AlmaVFarm, the experimental vertical farming facility of the University of Bologna.