Abstract: An advanced plant production system comprises a robust and efficient network of lighting, instrumentation and control and data acquisition systems, which are integrated together to maximize plant health, crop production, while conserving resources. The system provides an advanced user interface that can be accessed both locally and remotely. In some embodiments, the lighting can be controlled to mimic the circadian rhythm of the crops or the Sun, and can be matched to a particular type and/or maturity of plant. A sensor node which can be used in the plant production system comprises internal sensors, and can also be connected to other external sensors, to provide detailed environmental information. Several methods are described that can optimize the efficiency of the system, and can be used to improve the yield, value, and/or quality of crops.