CROP STEERING WITH THE HARVESTIQ
Cannabis is a complex plant about which we still have a lot to learn. Over 100 aroma & flavor compounds have previously been reported in cannabis, highlighting the complexity of its makeup. Many of these compounds can be enhanced by steering crops to grow with a chemo-profile that provides the taste, aroma, potency, and experience that customers demand; leading to higher quality and more profitable crops. Read on to learn how crop steering with the HarvestIQ can improve every harvest!
Cannabis Compounds
Major Cannabinoids
Cannabinoids are the most well-known and studied compounds in cannabis. The two most abundant and well-researched cannabinoids are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). THC is responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis, while CBD is non-psychoactive and has been associated with various potential therapeutic benefits. It’s important to note that there are over 100 other cannabinoids present in cannabis, each with its own potential effect.
Minor Cannabinoids
There are hundreds of compounds in cannabis, each having a unique role to play. Minor cannabinoids such as Cannabinol (CBN) and Cannabigerol (CBG) are gaining attention for their unique properties. CBN is often associated with sedative effects, making it potentially useful for sleep disorders, while CBG is studied for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. By understanding and leveraging the diverse cannabinoid profile, producers can cultivate strains that cater to specific wellness or recreational needs.
Terpenes
Terpenes contribute to the flavor, aroma & experience of cannabis. They interact with a user’s endocannabinoid systems to either enhance or mitigate the effects of cannabinoids, commonly referred to as the entourage effect. Growers know that rich terpene profiles in combination with cannabinoids can produce premium products and will strive to consistently grow crops that will meet their customers’ expectations.
Flavorants
Recent research has identified compounds called flavorants, a class of chemicals that includes esters, alcohols, sulphur aromatics, and other compounds, which are present in relatively small amounts compared to cannabinoids and terpenes but are significant contributor to the taste & aroma of cannabis. More research is needed to understand how these compounds affect not only the taste & aroma of cannabis, but also their potential therapeutic benefits, and how they affect the overall experience.
The Art and Science of Crop Steering
Crop steering is a technique designed to influence plants as they grow, particularly in controlled environments By manipulating conditions such as light, temperature, irrigation, stress, and nutrients, producers can optimize cannabis quality and steer the production of terpenes and cannabinoid towards chemo-profiles that give consumers the experience, taste, aroma, wellness, etc. that they expect; and will pay a premium price for.
Temperature Manipulation
Plants have different temperature needs depending on at which stage they are in the growth cycle. In the vegetative stage, while they are developing the basic structures of the plant, they benefit from warmer temperatures. As plants move into the flowering stage, they are starting to produce the cannabinoids & terpenes which will ultimately determine the quality of the crop, cooler temperatures will stimulate this growth. Temperatures are reduced in the daytime and reduced even further in the evening, and as flowering progresses, evening temperatures can be further reduced to stimulate resin production.
Light Manipulation
Cannabis plants naturally boost their trichome production in response to UVB light as a protective measure. The trichomes are where most cannabinoids and terpenes are produced, so by adding UVB light at strategic times, growers can enhance cannabinoid and terpene production, thereby increasing the value and quality of the crop.
Irrigation Management
While each cultivar has different needs, by controlling the timing, application rate, and volume of water, growers can steer crops to desired outcomes. When plants are in the vegetative stage, they require more water to encourage growth. The goal in this phase is to provide everything the plants need to reduce stress. Once crops move to the flowering phase, growers need to optimize the production to creating flower. This can be achieved by adjusting irrigation to keep roots drier, less frequent watering, and dry backs (less water during the dark part of the light cycle).
Nutrient Management for Optimal Growth
Cannabis plants require a delicate balance of nutrients for optimal health. Nutrients such as nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) are essential, the relative of amount of each is referred to as the NPK ratio (e.g., common ratio seen on commercial fertilizers would have 20-20-20 on the package). However, the ratio of these nutrients affects the production of specific cannabinoids. For example, higher N & P will promote the production of THC. Micronutrients are present in much smaller amounts but can have a significant effect; for example, the addition of humic acid promotes on minor cannabinoids such as CBN and CBG.
Calcium is vital for cell wall development, magnesium supports photosynthesis, and sulfur is essential for chlorophyll formation and protein production. Fine-tuning the nutrient mix and application rates based on the crop’s growth stage can optimize the plant’s chemo-profile, enhancing its taste, aroma, and overall experience.
The Importance of Real-Time Monitoring
While crop steering based on standard procedures can significantly improve crop quality, there is no guarantee that the plants are responding as expected. By monitoring the chemo-profile of the plants, as they grow producers can be assured that nutrients are being taken up as expected and that the plants are developing the desired compounds. By analyzing the chemical composition of the plants in-house, growers can make real-time adjustments to their cultivation practices. This proactive approach helps ensure that crops will yield high-quality cannabinoids and terpenes, ultimately maximizing both quality and revenue
The HarvestIQ Advantage
Innovative tools like the HarvestIQ offer growers actionable information by providing easy-to-read, real-time data on the chemical composition of their crops. This allows for immediate course corrections, reducing the risk of loss and increasing profits. By integrating this information with environmental monitors, growers can close the loop on their crop steering to ensure the final product meets customers’ demands.
The Future of Cannabis Cultivation
Cannabis cultivation is an evolving field that combines traditional agricultural knowledge with cutting-edge technology. Understanding the intricate interplay of flavorants, terpenes, and cannabinoids is essential for producing high-quality cannabis. Crop steering, when paired with real-time monitoring tools like HarvestIQ, empower growers to ensure the production of superior cannabis that meets both consumer demand and increases profits.
As research continues to unravel the complexities of cannabis, growers who stay at the forefront of these advancements will be best positioned to thrive in this competitive industry. By embracing both the science and art of cannabis cultivation, they can unlock the full potential of this remarkable plant.
Learn more about the HarvestIQ
James Wylde sits down with Cannabis Science and Technology to discuss Crop Steering with the HarvestIQ
