Cultivator Chronicles: The Cutting-Edge Science Of Cannabis Cultivation

Ethos Cannabis, operating in Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, and Maryland, emphasizes foundational practices to improve cannabis yield and quality. Steve Garner, VP of cultivation, highlights the importance of strong basics over quick fixes that he believes all cannabis companies should be implementing.

“First and foremost, we are firm believers in the importance of fundamentals. Many growers are looking for that ‘silver bullet’ that gives them the edge over others, and we believe they skip right over the fact that they are limited by missing out on sound cultivation techniques,” he said.

Real-Time Data for Optimal Crop Management

Ethos employs advanced technology to monitor crop health in real-time. Stem diameter and sap flow sensors provide immediate feedback, allowing for precise adjustments to environmental conditions and irrigation. This approach enhances growth and stress management during the flowering cycle, resulting in higher-quality cannabis.

The company partners with diagnostic labs for early detection to address threats from pathogens like Hop Latent Viroid, Fusarium, and pythium. It also uses tissue culture labs to maintain clean stock and ensure healthy propagation material.

“We work closely with diagnostic labs that can test plant tissue for the presence of these pathogens, which allows us to respond quickly and appropriately to any identified issues,” Garner explained.

Optimizing Root Health

Ethos uses a sensor network to monitor the root zone's water content, electrical conductivity, and temperature. Combined with daily analysis of irrigation solutions, this data helps maintain healthy roots and achieve desired growth patterns.

Garner noted, “We utilize Priva automation software and hardware to run all cultivation-related systems and worked closely with them to integrate a root zone sensor network.”

He says Ethos provides consistency by adhering to detailed standard operating procedures and training team members regularly. “We aim to maintain detailed SOPs, technical guides, and other documentation that ensures we have a goal in mind that has been proven out over decades of experience from our team,” Garner said.

Sustainable Cultivation Practices

Despite the challenges of indoor cultivation, Ethos strives to reduce its environmental impact. Their largest facility, a fully sealed greenhouse, uses less than half the energy per square foot compared to indoor grows, thanks to LED lighting and climate control systems. Garner believes greenhouse cultivation balances quality, quantity, and energy efficiency.

“Energy efficiency is the biggest way to affect environmental impact, and we are proud of how effective this method of growing is from both an impact and quality perspective,” he stated.

Responding to Market Demands

The cannabis market is always evolving, with consumers seeking high THCa and unique genetic profiles. Ethos evaluates new strains to meet these demands without compromising quality.

“95%+ of the time, if we see an increase in quality, we will sacrifice yield to achieve the goal of quality cannabis,” Garner stated. The company collaborates with breeder partners to ensure a steady supply of new strains for evaluation.

Want To Learn More?

The upcoming Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference, scheduled for October 8-9, 2024, in Chicago, will feature industry leaders like Garner discussing cultivation practices and trends. This event provides an opportunity for cannabis cultivators to learn and network, fostering progress within the industry.

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