Abstract: Disclosed are apparatus and method for establishing and maintaining a controlled environment for the growth of food yielding plants. The apparatus includes an enclosure having a plurality of artificial light sources positioned over a growing region. Planting areas constitute suitable trays which are mounted for automatic or controlled movement past the light sources and to a work area where all planting, cultivating, crop management and harvesting is accomplished. The necessity of labor expense is thereby reduced.Photo periodism or the enhanced growth rate of plants with light cycling is easily optimized by controlling the speed of movement of the plants. Size and position of the lamps also is varied to optimize growth. Growth enhancement through plant movement is attained.