Season 2 | Episode 28: Maximizing Efficiency | Streamlining Cannabis Cultivation Through Multi-Tier Systems

Season 2 | Episode 28: Maximizing Efficiency | Streamlining Cannabis Cultivation Through Multi-Tier Systems

Episode 28

Summary:

The discussion revolves around the optimization of labor and space efficiency in cannabis cultivation. Anders and Michael highlight the importance of streamlining labor processes and minimizing touch-points to increase productivity and reduce costs. They emphasize the significance of time-saving measures in labor-intensive tasks, as seconds can translate to significant savings in labor costs.

The conversation delves into the transition to multi-tier cultivation systems and the challenges growers face, particularly regarding labor access to upper tiers. Solutions such as the ELEVATE® Platform System are discussed as game-changers in enabling efficient access to multiple tiers for cultivation tasks.

The complexity of engineering and designing multi-tier cultivation rooms is addressed, reframing it as a matter of familiarity rather than inherent complexity. Anders and Michael stress the importance of growers stepping out of their comfort zones to embrace new cultivation methods, which ultimately leads to improved proficiency.

They highlight the advantages of multi-tier cultivation in maximizing space efficiency and increasing yield potential. A specific example is provided where a grower plans to retrofit their single-level facility to multi-tier after experiencing the benefits. The discussion concludes with an emphasis on the role of top-line revenue in reducing costs and the commitment to providing growers with valuable information and tools for success.

Overall, the podcast provides insights into the optimization of labor and space efficiency in cannabis cultivation through the adoption of multi-tier systems and innovative cultivation methods.

If you are a grower looking to optimize your cultivation facility or anyone looking to cultivate more in less space, then this is the show for you. Each week, join Host Michael Williamson as he travels across the country, to explore the world of vertical farming and the future of cannabis and food production through his conversations with leading industry operators, growers and executives who are demonstrating success and resilience as growers and cultivators. Each episode provides stories and key insights that will inspire and show you first-hand, how each of these companies have overcome challenges, and found their own path to success.

Get a FREE Grow Consultation

Season 2 | Episode 27: Optimal Tier Spacing for Multi-Tier Cultivation

Season 2 | Episode 27: Optimal Tier Spacing for Multi-Tier Cultivation

Episode 27

Summary:

Michael and Anders cover topics such as tier heights in flower rooms, considerations for tier spacing, pros and cons of different heights, ideal tier spacing, and considerations for veg and mother rooms.

Overall, they emphasize the importance of considering factors like lighting efficiency, airflow efficiency, ceiling height, plant stretch, environmental control, substrate type and volume, handling processes, and the use of inner canopy lighting when determining tier spacing in different cultivation environments. They suggest that a tier spacing of around 5.5 to 6 feet is often ideal for flower rooms, while tier spacing in veg rooms can vary depending on factors such as cultivation strategy and plant growth duration.

Tier Spacing in Multi-Tier Cultivation:

  • Multi-tier cultivation or vertical farming involves spacing between grow trays and the bottom of grow lights, known as tier heights or tier spacings.
  • Different tiers correspond to different stages of plant growth, such as mother, veg, and flower rooms.
  • Flower rooms typically have two levels with equidistant tier spacings.
  • New cultivators often worry about plant stretch and request tall tier spacings to prevent plants from growing into lights.
  • Tall tier spacings (over 6.5 ft) can lead to inefficiencies in lighting and airflow, requiring lights to run at higher percentages and airflow systems to work harder.
  • Ceiling height is a critical factor when determining tier spacings; maximizing rack height may not be ideal due to constraints like mechanical installations and air circulation.
  • Shorter tier spacings (around 4 to 4.5 ft) can improve lighting uniformity and penetration but require precise cultivation schedules to avoid plant stretch and light burn.
  • The ideal tier spacing for flower rooms is around 5.5 to 6 ft, providing a balance between efficient lighting, airflow, and environmental control.

Considerations for Tier Spacing in Flower Rooms:

  • Ceiling height should accommodate the total height of racks and leave room for environmental buffer space above the racks.
  • Tall tier spacings may lead to inefficient lighting and airflow, requiring higher energy consumption.
  • Shorter tier spacings can improve light uniformity and penetration but require careful management of plant height and cultivation schedules.
  • Inner canopy lighting can enhance light distribution and increase yields, especially in tall plant environments.

Considerations for Tier Spacing in Veg Rooms:

  • Veg rooms typically have shorter tier spacings (around 3 to 3.5 ft) to accommodate smaller plants and shorter growth cycles.
  • Advanced cultivators may opt for longer veg cycles (10 to 14 days), requiring taller tier spacings (up to 14 ft) to accommodate plant growth.
  • Longer veg cycles may lead to stalling moments and reduced vigor if not managed properly.
  • Considerations include plant density, growth medium, and cultivation strategy when determining tier spacings in veg rooms.

If you are a grower looking to optimize your cultivation facility or anyone looking to cultivate more in less space, then this is the show for you. Each week, join Host Michael Williamson as he travels across the country, to explore the world of vertical farming and the future of cannabis and food production through his conversations with leading industry operators, growers and executives who are demonstrating success and resilience as growers and cultivators. Each episode provides stories and key insights that will inspire and show you first-hand, how each of these companies have overcome challenges, and found their own path to success.

Get a FREE Grow Consultation

Season 2 | Episode 26: Elevating Standards: Good Manufacturing Practices, Quality Assurance, and Quality Control in Cannabis with Atiyyah Ferouz

Season 2 | Episode 26: Elevating Standards: Good Manufacturing Practices, Quality Assurance, and Quality Control in Cannabis with Atiyyah Ferouz

Episode 26

Summary:

Introduction and Background

The episode of Cultivation Elevated discusses vertical farming and the future of cannabis and food production.

Guest Atiyyah Ferouz is introduced as a consultant, educator, plant scientist, and CEO/co-founder of AGCann Consultancy and the International Cannabis Quality Standards Association (ICQSA) - she joins Anders and Michael this week. 

Atiyyah Ferouzs’ Career and Work

Atiyyah started in the cannabis industry in 2018 with a background in genetic engineering and plant biotechnology.

She managed a large cannabis greenhouse and launched her consultancy in 2020, specializing in emerging markets.

Atiyyah helps clients worldwide with operations, commercialization, and quality assurance, focusing on compliance with standards like GACP and GMP.

GACP and GMP Standards

GACP (Good Agricultural and Collection Practices) covers the cultivation side, while GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) covers post-harvest processes.

Different countries have varying interpretations of these standards.

GMP emphasizes documentation, flexibility, and continuous improvement, making it adaptable to various industries, including cannabis.

Quality Assurance and Quality Control

QA (Quality Assurance) involves process documentation, staff training, and adherence checks.

QC (Quality Control) focuses on testing and ensuring the quality of the final product.

Both QA and QC are essential for compliance and producing high-quality products.

Challenges and Insights in Cannabis Regulation

Atia emphasizes the need for tailored regulations for cannabis, as it doesn't fit neatly into traditional agricultural, pharmaceutical, or natural health product categories.

She advocates for a quota-based system similar to dairy production to manage supply and demand.

There are misconceptions about best practices and the flexibility allowed by GMP.

Global Collaboration and Industry Standards

Atiyyah discusses the importance of global standards for legitimizing the cannabis industry.

The ICQSA aims to develop consistent international standards to facilitate trade and ensure quality.

Global collaboration can help stabilize markets, improve price points, and promote genetic diversity.

Remediation and Quality in Cannabis Production

Remediation techniques, though sometimes viewed negatively, are necessary for meeting stringent microbial standards.

Techniques like irradiation, e-beaming, and cold plasma are used to ensure product safety without compromising quality.

Atiyyah believes that dried flower should not be considered a pharmaceutical product due to its variability and the challenges in maintaining consistency.

Conclusion

The podcast concludes with a discussion on the future of the cannabis industry and the importance of ongoing learning and adaptation.

Atiyyah highlights the value of international standards and the need for the industry to self-regulate to ensure quality and legitimacy.

 

This episode of Cultivation Elevated provides valuable insights into the complexities of cannabis regulation, the importance of quality assurance, and the benefits of global collaboration in the industry.

If you are a grower looking to optimize your cultivation facility or anyone looking to cultivate more in less space, then this is the show for you. Each week, join Host Michael Williamson as he travels across the country, to explore the world of vertical farming and the future of cannabis and food production through his conversations with leading industry operators, growers and executives who are demonstrating success and resilience as growers and cultivators. Each episode provides stories and key insights that will inspire and show you first-hand, how each of these companies have overcome challenges, and found their own path to success.

Get a FREE Grow Consultation

Season 2 | Episode 25: Mastering Veg Timing & Plant Height

Season 2 | Episode 25: Mastering Veg Timing & Plant Height

Episode 25

Summary:

  • Veg Timing Importance: Timing veg growth is crucial for determining plant height and structure before transitioning to the flowering phase. It directly impacts yield and performance in the grow.
  • Vegetative Phase Overview: The vegetative phase involves keeping plants under an 18-hour photo period, allowing them to grow shoots and roots to establish a robust structure for flowering.
  • Veg Length Determination: The length of veg directly influences plant height in the flowering phase, particularly significant in vertical farming and multi-tier growing setups.
  • Optimal Veg Duration: While a 10 to 14-day veg is ideal for advanced cultivators with optimal environments, some factors like genetics and environmental conditions may extend veg time.
  • Managing Stretch: Stretch refers to rapid plant growth during the early flowering phase triggered by a 12-hour photo period. Proper veg timing helps anticipate and manage this stretch to avoid issues like plants growing into lights or obstructing airflow.
  • Techniques to Control Stretch: Environmental cues, such as day-to-night temperature differentials, and irrigation strategies can help mitigate stretch. Additionally, plant training techniques like topping or super cropping can be employed.
  • Variability in Cultivar Behavior: Some cultivars exhibit slow veg growth but finish flowering rapidly. Understanding each cultivar's growth patterns is essential for effective cultivation planning.
  • No Veg Strategy: An emerging trend in some regions involves skipping the traditional veg phase and directly transitioning rooted clones into flowering, particularly in high-density planting setups.
  • Closing Thoughts: Successful cannabis cultivation requires understanding and adapting to various factors like genetics, environment, and cultivation techniques. Cultivators are encouraged to experiment, gather data, and tailor their approach to their specific growing conditions.

This conversation provides valuable insights for cannabis cultivators, emphasizing the importance of strategic planning and adaptability in optimizing plant growth and yield.

If you are a grower looking to optimize your cultivation facility or anyone looking to cultivate more in less space, then this is the show for you. Each week, join Host Michael Williamson as he travels across the country, to explore the world of vertical farming and the future of cannabis and food production through his conversations with leading industry operators, growers and executives who are demonstrating success and resilience as growers and cultivators. Each episode provides stories and key insights that will inspire and show you first-hand, how each of these companies have overcome challenges, and found their own path to success.

Get a FREE Grow Consultation

Season 2 | Episode 24: Insights Into Europe’s Cannabis Landscape

Season 2 | Episode 24: Insights Into Europe’s Cannabis Landscape

Episode 24

Summary:

  • European Cannabis Market Variances: The European cannabis market varies significantly depending on the country. Spain still has a significant black market presence, while countries like Switzerland, Holland, Germany, and Malta are more interested in multi-tier cultivation due to advancements in legalization and commercial construction.
  • Legalization in Germany: Germany recently decriminalized possession and consumption of cannabis, allowing citizens to possess up to 25 grams and grow up to three plants at home. They also introduced a website to indicate areas where public consumption is permitted.
  • Enforcement and Penalties: There are discussions about penalties for public consumption in restricted zones and the need for responsible consumption etiquette.
  • Germany's Influence: Germany's approach to legalization is seen as influential for other European countries due to its significant population and international standing, potentially setting a precedent for other nations to follow.
  • Pilot Programs: Several European countries, including Switzerland and the Netherlands, have implemented pilot programs to explore regulated cannabis cultivation and distribution.
  • Lessons from US Legalization: The conversation draws parallels between the US and European approaches to legalization, highlighting differences in regulatory frameworks and the challenges of navigating state-by-state regulations.
  • Regulatory Challenges: The discussion touches on the difficulties of regulatory compliance in the cannabis industry, including tracking systems like Metric and the debate between regulating by plant count versus canopy square footage.
  • Potential Future Podcast Topics: Anders and Michael express interest in discussing nuanced differences in cannabis regulations across different US states and potentially exploring topics like cultivation strategies and regulatory efficiency in future podcasts.

If you are a grower looking to optimize your cultivation facility or anyone looking to cultivate more in less space, then this is the show for you. Each week, join Host Michael Williamson as he travels across the country, to explore the world of vertical farming and the future of cannabis and food production through his conversations with leading industry operators, growers and executives who are demonstrating success and resilience as growers and cultivators. Each episode provides stories and key insights that will inspire and show you first-hand, how each of these companies have overcome challenges, and found their own path to success.

Get a FREE Grow Consultation

Season 2 | Episode 23: Insights from Spannabis & Beyond

Season 2 | Episode 23: Insights from Spannabis & Beyond

Episode 23

Summary:

  • Spannabis Experience: Anders shared his personal experience at Spannabis, highlighting the vibrant social club scene in Barcelona and the excitement around cannabis culture and legalization. They particularly enjoyed the hash scene, with notable mention of Piatella Hash and its unique curing process.
  • International Travel and Awareness of Pipp Horticulture: Anders discussed his surprise at the international recognition of Pipp, indicating that many attendees were familiar with the brand. They also mentioned their upcoming presence at events in Europe, inviting cultivators to engage with them.
  • Concerns about Pathogen Spread Through Seeds: There was a discussion about the spread of pathogens and viruses through seeds, emphasizing the importance of responsible breeding practices and testing to prevent the transmission of diseases.
  • Quality of Exhibits at Spannabis: The conversation touched on the impressive quality of exhibits at Spannabis, noting the elaborate and stylish booths, which reflected the sophistication of the European cannabis industry.
  • Comparison with Other Cannabis Events: Anders and Michael compared Spannabis to other cannabis events like MJBizCon and Canna Fest, highlighting differences in atmosphere, attendee engagement, and the quality of conversations with growers.
  • Upcoming Events and Engaging with Pipp Horticulture: Michael and Anders discussed their plans to attend upcoming events in Europe and encouraged listeners to engage with them at these events, promising informative discussions about cannabis cultivation.

If you are a grower looking to optimize your cultivation facility or anyone looking to cultivate more in less space, then this is the show for you. Each week, join Host Michael Williamson as he travels across the country, to explore the world of vertical farming and the future of cannabis and food production through his conversations with leading industry operators, growers and executives who are demonstrating success and resilience as growers and cultivators. Each episode provides stories and key insights that will inspire and show you first-hand, how each of these companies have overcome challenges, and found their own path to success.

Get a FREE Grow Consultation

Episode 22: Grow Motion – Dialing in a 3-Tier Flower in Switzerland

Episode 22: Grow Motion – Dialing in a 3-Tier Flower in Switzerland

Episode 22-Grow Motion

Summary:

In this insightful episode of "Cultivation Elevated," host Michael Williamson sits down with Sia of Grow Motion, to delve into the intricate world of the European cannabis industry. They navigate the complexities of establishing a thriving cannabis enterprise in Switzerland, from crafting a unique brand that resonates with a dedicated community to employing innovative agricultural technologies like the Elevate Platform system.

Sia shares his entrepreneurial journey and the strategic moves that set Grow Motion apart in a competitive market, including exclusive genetics and German partnerships. This conversation not only highlights the challenges of scaling a business and maintaining a strong team spirit but also speculates on the evolving role of Switzerland in the European cannabis landscape and the future of THC legislation. Listeners are invited to join Michael and Sia for an episode that promises to enrich their understanding of the cannabis industry and the meticulous efforts behind Grow Motion's success.

(04:37 Building a Facility in Switzerland

(16:10) CBD and THC Usage Comparison in Europe

(24:19) Cannabis Industry Challenges

(29:00) The Decision to Build Three Tiers

(34:58) Creating a Safety-Focused Elevate Platform System

(39:48 ) GrowMotion's Unique Program Details

(45:57) Switzerland's Cannabis History

(49:38) GrowMotion Goals

"If I start a project, I will never stop anytime. I will finish it. It's important to build a community, to give them the best quality. You cannot build a brand that reaches the top level and then is forgotten after two or three months." - Sia"We have to be different if we want to play the game for the long term. You can't compete on quality alone; it's about creating a unique product that resonates with the community and stands the test of time." - Sia

"In the world of cannabis cultivation, it's about more than just the plant. It's about the people, the passion, and the dedication to create something exceptional. That's what truly makes a difference in this industry." - Michael Williamson

Get a FREE Grow Consultation

Episode 21: StackHouse – Grower Built From the Bottom Up

Episode 21: StackHouse – Grower Built From the Bottom Up

Episode 21 Grower Built From The Bottom Up

Summary:

In this episode we meet the StackHouse team and unpack the essence of creating a solid cannabis cultivation team. Quality, quantity, consistency, and efficiency are the pillars of success we focus on, and how they are profoundly influenced by company culture and employee satisfaction. Discover the importance of transparency, equipment maintenance, and the balance between labor costs and product excellence. Our discussion also sheds light on the potential pitfalls of relying too heavily on machinery, emphasizing the need for skilled technicians and the delicate act of maintaining a positive work environment.

 

Our conversation turns to the art and science behind phenotype genetics, racking, and moisture management in cannabis cultivation. We take a closer look at nursery layouts, the strategic placement of mother plants and clones, and the decision-making process behind pot sizes for optimal flowering. Hear about the challenges of managing moisture content in buds, especially in Nevada's arid climate, and how this impacts both testing results and customer satisfaction. We also highlight the strong culture of empowerment and education at StackHouse, demonstrating how a unified team approach can lead to commercial success and quality production. Don't miss this engaging episode from the heart of Las Vegas, where innovation meets tradition in the quest for cultivating excellence.

(00:02) Vertical Farming for Cannabis and Food

(15:08) Creating a Successful Cannabis Cultivation Team

(21:19) Phenotype Genetics, Racking, and Moisture Management

(34:06) Stackhouse

(38:19) Challenges and Innovation in Cultivation Facilities

(48:09) Team Culture in Cannabis Cultivation

(59:45) Indoor Cannabis Cultivation

(01:08:27) The Importance of Quality Cannabis Production

"I'm not addicted to cannabis. I'm addicted to growing cannabis. That's what's addictive. The side effect is just the good sweet herb, but the growing it, that's super addictive because it's just, it never stops, it's something new every day."

"We need to, as a team, have the way we do things. It happens to be very much influenced by my way, but it's not my way. I'm very open to adjusting things that make sense, but there needs to be a way or the way we do things."

"To do it at scale and to keep a team involved and keep success and pass rates of testing, that becomes more tricky consistently."

 

Show Links

Pipp Horticulture Website 

Pipp Horticulture YouTube 

Pipp Horticulture - Facebook 

Pipp Horticulture Instagram 

Pipp Horticulture LinkedIn 

Pipp Horticulture Pinterest 

Pipp Horticulture Twitter 

This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacy

Get a FREE Grow Consultation

Episode 20: Roots in the Past, Flowers of the Future Pt 2

Episode 20: Roots in the Past, Flowers of the Future Pt 2

Roots In The Past Flowers Of The Future

Summary:

Ever wondered how a second-generation farmer navigates the foggy world of California's cannabis industry? Join us as we traverse through the world of cannabis cultivation. Our guest, a seasoned grower with roots deep in the industry, shares his unique experiences and insights. Together, we unfurl the cultural influences that shape the success of cannabis operations and the unique challenges and opportunities that coastal California farming presents.

We share our own personal journey in cannabis cultivation, touching on genetics, managing light intensity, and the undeniable benefits of having a genetic library. We even discuss our unique cultivation process involving the use of greenhouses for vegging. We underscore the importance of brand-building; after all, consistency and loyalty are achieved through smaller batch production. Learn about our relentless pursuit of improvement in flower quality and the vital role that quality control and sorting processes play. So why wait? Tune in and let's grow together.

 

Trust us, you wouldn't want to miss it!

() California's Cannabis Consumption and Business Models

() Unrealistic Expectations in California Market

() Family-Owned Farming and Distribution

() Creating a Regionally-Based Brand

() Genetic Considerations in Cannabis Cultivation

() Importance of Airflow in Vertical Farming

Guest Resources

Website

Instagram

Show Links

Pipp Horticulture Website 

Pipp Horticulture YouTube 

Pipp Horticulture - Facebook 

Pipp Horticulture Instagram 

Pipp Horticulture LinkedIn 

Pipp Horticulture Pinterest 

Pipp Horticulture Twitter 

This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacy

Get a FREE Grow Consultation

Episode 19: Top Shelf Source of Cannabis News

Episode 19: Top Shelf Source of Cannabis News

Beard Bros Pharms: Top-Shelf Source of Cannabis News

Summary:

Join us on a captivating journey as we share an insightful conversation with the Beard Bros and Anders Peterson of Pip Horticulture, taking you through their remarkable transformation from East Coast cultivators to a beacon of cannabis news in California. Can you imagine the struggle of becoming a trusted source of news amidst a sea of clickbait and noise? We tackle this challenge head-on, candidly sharing our experiences and the unique trials we navigated to solidify our platform in the market.

This episode takes a deep dive into the evolution of cannabis culture on the East Coast, spotlighting the influential role of California and how Hollywood and social media have accelerated its adoption. As we navigate through this discussion, we also tackle the transient aspect of Prop 64 and its potential impact. And if that's not enough, hold tight as we compare and contrast the unpredictability between the cultivation and media sectors of the cannabis industry—two domains that demand constant vigilance with local, state, national, and international news.

As we round off our discussion, we don't shy away from the complexities of social equity in cannabis, the distinct challenges of transitioning from a legacy cultivator to a legitimate business, and the intricate realities of the cannabis industry in various states. We also share the lessons learned from Canada's cannabis industry and the three Ps of success while emphasizing the importance of a sound
facility and a strong brand. So, sit back and get ready to expand your understanding of the cannabis industry with the Beard Bros and Anders Peterson.

Trust us, you wouldn't want to miss it!

  • (04:44) The Rise of Cannabis Industry Reporting

  • (09:54) Building Culture in Emerging States

  • (17:31) Passion in Cannabis Production

  • (32:42) California's Cannabis Industry and Investor Greed

  • (37:08) Limiting Licenses and Balancing Marijuana Supply

  • (44:09) Mismanagement in Canada's Cannabis Industry

  • (47:56) Canada's Impact on the Cannabis Industry

Guest Resources

Website

Instagram

Show Links

Pipp Horticulture Website 

Pipp Horticulture YouTube 

Pipp Horticulture - Facebook 

Pipp Horticulture Instagram 

Pipp Horticulture LinkedIn 

Pipp Horticulture Pinterest 

Pipp Horticulture Twitter 

This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacy

Get a FREE Grow Consultation