Category: Info for LP/Commercial Grower

There seems to be a clear divide in the industry between those who hand-trim cannabis, and those who opt for trimming machines. Hand-trimmers argue that the process of carefully handling each flower leads to a superior shape, texture, and overall appeal, saying that trimming cannabis with machines can knock off trichomes and bruise delicate buds. Those who use machines, however, argue from the opposite perspective, stating that trimming technology has progressed to a point where machine trimmed flower is indistinguishable from that of hand-processed cannabis. 

So, who wins the debate? Unfortunately, there is no clear answer. Because every garden is different, both hand-trimmed and machine processed cannabis can benefit growers on a case-by-case basis. Want to learn more about the different ways to process your crop? Read the following passages for information on the pros and cons of hand and machine trimmed cannabis: 

The Pros and Cons of Hand-Trimming Cannabis

It’s true – trimming cannabis is one of the most monotonous jobs in the garden. So, why would anyone want to spend more time trimming their crop by hand? Simply put, hand-trimming is unique in the same way that handmade fabrics are unique: each flower or section of flower gets the same attention during this process, giving hand-trimmed cannabis incomparable features, shapes, and appeal. However, trimming by hand can be expensive, tiresome, and time-consuming, making it a luxury that some larger facilities cannot afford. If you’re unsure if hand-trimming your crop is right for you, read the following passages to learn more: 

The Pros of Hand-Trimming

A Precise Trim

Because of the attention to detail during this process, hand-trimmed cannabis can be uniquely shaped, giving every strain an ideal and precise cut. All strains have different flowering characteristics. Some strains grow massive, doughy flowers, while others bloom small but densely packed buds. Knowing this, well-trained hand-trimmers can adjust their trimming style based on the desired look and feel of the crop. So, by hand-trimming cannabis, every single flower is processed with the same care, preciseness and attention to detail – no matter the strain. 

Using a pair of high-quality shears can help alleviate the fatigue associated with hand-trimming. Spring-loaded shears, such as the Curved and Straight Blade Trimming Shears from TNB Naturals reduce hand stress and allow growers to hand trim over a long session.

Quality Control

Not only does hand-trimmed cannabis deliver a superior and individual cut, but each flower during the hand-trimming process goes through an individual quality control inspection. Your crop might look incredible, however, pests, diseases, or seeds may have unknowingly infiltrated your garden. So, it’s highly important to set up multiple quality assurance checkpoints during the harvesting process. Because hand-trimmers have the best view of flowers passing from plants to the drying room, they can act as another level of quality control, making sure that freshly trimmed flowers are free of moulds, mildews, seeds, and pests. 

The Cons of Hand-Trimming

Organizing Trimming Crews

Organizing a highly-trained trimming crew is a challenging task. Especially for operations that require a large team, the availability of highly skilled workers is entirely dependent on market demands, supply, dependability, and profit. For example, the costs associated with paying a trimming crew can drastically decrease the profit margin of a crop – and the more skilled these workers are, the more likely they are to be expensive. Also, it’s a possibility that trimming crews will need to be equipped with scissors, trays, sanitizing material, gloves, and other protective gear during this process, all of which come at an extra cost.

Click here to view the harvesting and protective equipment available at GreenPlanet Wholesale. 

(Rosenthal, Hand-trimming Vs Machine-Trimming, @edrosenthal)

Harvesting Fatigue

The Pros and Cons of Machine-Trimming Cannabis

Large-scale operators have championed machine-trimming because the method is highly effective and fast. In fact, the latest trimming technology is so effective that the level of quality is almost indistinguishable from that of hand-trimmed flower. It’s clear that automated technology has improved how our industry operates; however, automated trimming machines are not a necessary purchase for everyone. The upfront costs are expensive, and if the purchase does not pay for itself quickly, automating the trimming process can be a massive waste of resources. With this in mind, let’s look at some of the pros and cons of machine-trimming cannabis:

The Pros  of Machine-Trimming

Fast and Effective 

It’s an understatement to say machine trimmers are fast. The CenturionPro Original Trimmer, for example, replaces 60 hand-trimming workers and allows operators to feed 75 pounds of wet cannabis through its tumbler per hour. This means that two operators and a trimming machine can harvest a large room in hours, instead of days, saving growers time, money, and labour costs. CenturionPro also carries de-stemming solutions, allowing growers to strategically streamline the entire harvesting process. So, if you operate a multi-light garden, investing in an automated trimmer will likely be one of the best decisions you’ll make.

Wet and Dry Trimming Capabilities

Modern trimmers can process both wet and dry cannabis. There has always been a debate surrounding the superiority of either wet or dry trimmed cannabis. However, with CenturionPro’s trimming solutions, growers no longer need to side with one specific method. Even CentrionPro’s smallest trimmer, the CenturionPro TableTop, can trim wet and dry cannabis at an amazing rate. For instance, growers purchasing a tabletop trimming can expect to replace up to 16 human trimmers while processing a maximum of 20lbs of wet cannabis (4lbs of dry) per hour of use. 

The Cons of Machine-Trimming

Large Upfront Costs

If automated trimmers were cheap, every facility would have purchased one. Unfortunately, this is not the case. The largest downside of owning a high-end automated trimmer is the purchasing cost. However, the difference between a smart investment and a frivolous one, is how fast a purchase pays for itself. If you’re interested in purchasing a trimmer, but don’t know if it’s the right business move for your operation, calculate your number of harvests per year, matched with the costs associated with hand-trimming each harvest. If the upfront cost of purchasing a trimmer comes below the annual cost of hiring a trimmer crew, it’s probably worth investing in some sort of automated trimming technology. 

Trimmer Maintenance

Like all machines, trimmers need to be consistently cleaned and maintained. If these machines are cleaned after every use, they can last a lifetime. So, soak and pressure wash your machine after every harvest to ensure your next crop is processed as efficiently as possible. Also, some parts will need to be replaced annually. The brushes on most CenturionPro trimmers, for instance, will need to be replaced once a year depending on the frequency of use. However, if you’re trimming your crop dry, the blade, brush, and tumbler will not become as dirty as they would during a wet trim. In short, keep a steady cleaning schedule in mind while processing cannabis through a machine, and regularly replace any parts and pieces that appear damaged or worn. 

Conclusion: Hand-Trimming vs Machine-Trimming

Now that you know about some of the pros and cons of processing cannabis either by hand or with machines, which method is superior? Since facilities range in size, production capabilities and quality, harvesting requirements also vary from operation to operation. So, if you’ve done your research, and considered the pros and cons of processing cannabis on both sides of the debate, make an educated decision based on the desired outcome of your operation. For example, if your facility’s goal is to produce the highest quality cannabis on the market, hand-trimming your crop might be the most suitable option. 

Happy harvesting! For more information about the products and services available at GreenPlanet Wholesale, contact your GreenPlanet sales representative, or your local garden supply store. 

Works Cited

• CenturionPro. (2020). TableTop trimmer running dry product – raw unedited video – gimbal shoot. Retrieved May 28th, 2021 from Youtube.com
• Rosenthal, E. (2018). Hand-trimming vs machine-trimming. Retrieved May 28th, 2021 from @edrosenthal

Latest News and Announcements

• 
  Hand-Trimming vs. Machine-Trimming: Pros and ConsDecember 6, 2021
  There seems to be a clear divide in the industry between those who hand-trim cannabis, and those who opt for trimming machines. Hand-trimmers argue that… Read more: Hand-Trimming vs. Machine-Trimming: Pros and Cons
• 
  5 Tips on Drying and Curing CannabisNovember 1, 2021
  The process of properly drying and curing cannabis presents growers with a variety of new challenges. Similar to ageing fine wine or spirits, the drying… Read more: 5 Tips on Drying and Curing Cannabis
• 
  4 Types of Growers Who Should Use GreenPlanet Nutrients Dual FuelOctober 18, 2021
  Committing to a brand of plant food is perhaps one of the most important decisions to be made in the garden. Choosing a specific fertilizer,… Read more: 4 Types of Growers Who Should Use GreenPlanet Nutrients Dual Fuel

Automation is the process of replacing human (or animal) power with machine power. Designed to increase the productivity, efficiency and profitability of manufacturing, automation has been widely adopted since the industrial revolution and has given rise to technologies that enhance transportation, communication and information systems. Even in our own industry, automated technology has had a major impact on how we tend the garden  – the thermostat, for instance, has quickly become an indispensable piece of the indoor garden. Without it, growers would have little control over day and night time temperature.

However, now that our industry has begun to radically progress, automation has moved beyond simple temperature control. In fact, all aspects of the garden have the potential for automation. Want to learn more about increasing your ROI in the garden? Let’s take a look at some of the industry’s most popular automation equipment. 

TrolMaster Environmental Control Systems

TrolMaster manufactures the industry’s best environmental control systems. The Hydro-X (HSC-1), for example, is a complete, professional-grade environmental system that allows growers to customize every environmental aspect of the garden. The Hydro-X can do it all – with over 12 modules available to control HVAC systems, mini-split AC’s, dehumidifiers, humidifiers, CO2, irrigation pumps and lighting, TrolMaster made sure that no part of the garden would be excluded from automation. However, the most powerful feature of the HSC-1 is the device’s ability to monitor your garden in real-time. Just connect to TrolMaster’s smartphone app to access data and control your garden from a distance. 

If you’re looking to bring your garden into the future, consider the TrolMaster Hydro-X Pro Control System (HCS-2). The Hydro-X Pro builds on all the great features found in the Hydro-X by introducing a 10″ touch screen and web-based software. Expand your automation by attaching up to 50 sensors and up to 50 separate control modules to a single Hydro-X Pro.

LightRail Light Movers

LightRails are light movers that increase light penetration by essentially doubling the coverage produced by a single fixture. Not only will using a LightRail decrease energy consumption and heat in the garden but there are also some major photosynthetic benefits. As the manufacturers of LightRail argue, moving your lights allows for more intense light coverage in low-light sections of the garden, reduces hot spots and helps more leaves absorb more light energy. LightRail has a wide range of products, including variable speed motors, rails, accessories and replacement repair kits. 

AutoPot Watering Systems

AutoPot Watering Systems combines the best of both hydroponic and traditional gardening techniques into a simple, easy to install, self-watering system. Many advantages, not to mention a reduced workload, come with automating your garden with an AutoPot watering system. As opposed to more traditional methods of gardening, there are amazing benefits to expect from switching to a small or large AutoPot system, including standardized self-watering technology, enhanced control and increased savings on water, liquid nutrients and electricity.  

Dosatron Dosing Technology

CenturionPro Trimming Solutions

Growers have the most to gain by automating a harvest. While the benefits of hand-trimming cannabis are clear, it is an expensive and time-consuming task. That’s why more producers than ever are automating harvests with CenturionPro trimming solutions. Adopting automated solutions for automation’s sake, without first identifying how they improve operations, will result in expenses that fail to enhance your grow. However, strategically identifying where costs can be saved and implementing specialist solutions improves both quantity and quality. This enables growers to attract new cannabis audiences now, with the capacity and consistency to satisfy and retain these customers in the future. This is just one example of why large-scale operators have chosen to rely on CenturionPro for all their trimming needs.

Futurola KnockBox Rolling Machine 

From lighting systems to harvesting equipment, GreenPlanet Wholesale has automated garden technology that will help increase the productivity and profitability of your operation. Need more information about one or more of the products listed above? Contact your GreenPlanet sales representative to learn more about increasing your ROI by investing in automated technology. 

Latest News & Announcements

• 
  Hand-Trimming vs. Machine-Trimming: Pros and ConsDecember 6, 2021
  There seems to be a clear divide in the industry between those who hand-trim cannabis, and those who opt for trimming machines. Hand-trimmers argue that… Read more: Hand-Trimming vs. Machine-Trimming: Pros and Cons
• 
  5 Tips on Drying and Curing CannabisNovember 1, 2021
  The process of properly drying and curing cannabis presents growers with a variety of new challenges. Similar to ageing fine wine or spirits, the drying… Read more: 5 Tips on Drying and Curing Cannabis
• 
  4 Types of Growers Who Should Use GreenPlanet Nutrients Dual FuelOctober 18, 2021
  Committing to a brand of plant food is perhaps one of the most important decisions to be made in the garden. Choosing a specific fertilizer,… Read more: 4 Types of Growers Who Should Use GreenPlanet Nutrients Dual Fuel

Veteran growers understand that HPS, MH and CMH lights are the kings of the indoor garden. They offer growers heavy harvests, consistent production and reliable results. In short, HID lighting may always be a standard in the industry that other lighting manufactures must compete against. However, just because HID lighting has dominated the industry in the past, doesn’t mean all growers will continue to rely on older, less advanced lighting technology. LED technology has finally progressed to a point where it can compete directly with HID lighting. Not only can high-wattage LED’s compete directly with HID’s in terms of yield and quality output, but other benefits including energy savings, heat reduction, unique spectrum capabilities, controllability and manufacturer-backed warranties all contribute to the LED phenomena sweeping across the industry. 

But what should you look for in a high-quality LED? Let’s take a look at some of the unique features of the LEDs available at GreenPlanet Wholesale. 

Energy Saving Capabilities

Energy savings means cost-effective growth. Unlike HID lighting, LED grow lights use only 30-40% of the power they output. New technologies are continually improving and figuring out new ways to become more efficient. This is the simplest truth about making the switch to LED lighting technology. 

Heat Reduction

Compared to HID lights, high-quality LEDs are also extremely low heat. This benefit can mean savings on two fronts: first in the upfront cost of cooling and ventilation equipment, and later in the savings associated with power consumption. For example, a single HPS light requires hundreds of dollars in costs associated with ventilation – fans, ducting, digital monitors are all necessary for managing the heat-load produced by HIDs. This cost, however, can be easily avoided by powering your small garden with high-quality, low-heat LEDs. At scale, these savings are exponentially exaggerated, savings growers not only the upfront costs of buying and installing air conditioners but also the long-term costs associated with powering expensive cooling equipment.

Unique Spectrum Capabilities

A high-quality LED should also have full, or unique spectrum capabilities. A full spectrum LED, like the ThinkGrow LED Model-H, provides plants with a balanced spectrum of blue, yellow and red. It also comes with a control function, allowing gardeners to access unique deep reds in flower at the push of a button. The spectrum tuning feature of the Model-H allows growers to experiment with spectrum recipes for different crops and different stages. It can be achieved by the onboard dimming knob or external controllers.

Controllability 

Some of the best LED manufacturers include both internal and external control functions. The Model-I, for example, can be easily controlled by TrolMaster’s environment controller, the Hydro-X. Not only can this device externally control the spectrum and timing capabilities of individual lights, but it can also control the capabilities of lights at scale. For example, the Hydro-X controller can manage and operate up to 256 ThinkGrow LED fixtures per channel. 

Manufacturer Backed Warranties

The warranties offered by some of the leading manufacturers of LEDs prove that they understand and believe in both their product and their customers. Kind LED, one of the world’s largest producers of high-quality LEDs offers a 3-year limited warranty on their products. Kind LED grow light products are warrantied against defects in materials and/or workmanship for a period of three (3) years from the original date of purchase.  During this warranty period, Kind LED will either repair or replace any covered, defective product.  Within the first 90 days, Kind LED will incur all costs associated with the repair, or replacement, and return of the defective product. In short, these terms essentially guarantee a working LED fixture for a minimum of three years. Click here for more information on Kind LED’s Warranty Information. 

This is only a brief list of the benefits of investing in a high-quality LED. Want to learn more? Contact one of GreenPlanet Wholesale’s representatives, or your local garden supply store for more information on the products and benefits listed above. 

Works Cited

• Haze, N. (2008). ViparSpectra LEDs vs HPS Grow Journal. Retrieved May 4th, 2021 from GrowWeedEasy.com

• KindLED. (2020). LED Grow Lights: Cost Savings Comparison. Retrieved May 4th, 2021 from KindLEDGrowlights.com

Latest News And Announcements

• 
  Hand-Trimming vs. Machine-Trimming: Pros and ConsDecember 6, 2021
  There seems to be a clear divide in the industry between those who hand-trim cannabis, and those who opt for trimming machines. Hand-trimmers argue that… Read more: Hand-Trimming vs. Machine-Trimming: Pros and Cons
• 
  5 Tips on Drying and Curing CannabisNovember 1, 2021
  The process of properly drying and curing cannabis presents growers with a variety of new challenges. Similar to ageing fine wine or spirits, the drying… Read more: 5 Tips on Drying and Curing Cannabis
• 
  4 Types of Growers Who Should Use GreenPlanet Nutrients Dual FuelOctober 18, 2021
  Committing to a brand of plant food is perhaps one of the most important decisions to be made in the garden. Choosing a specific fertilizer,… Read more: 4 Types of Growers Who Should Use GreenPlanet Nutrients Dual Fuel

As the industry has advanced, talented gardeners have fine-tuned their skills to produce some of the most desired varieties of cannabis. Depending on the grower, the type of garden, and the skill possessed to produce a wide variety of genetics, the list of new, old, or challenging strains is essentially endless. There is massive variation in the types of cannabis plants people might want to cultivate; and, as any experienced gardener knows, these variations can result in a wide spectrum of products to satisfy any set of tastes, preferences, or medicinal concerns. However, among the most important variations that determine genetic quality, a wide, and desirable spectrum of terpenes is arguably the most relevant aspect of strain selection, cultivation and consumption. To learn more about terpenes, the entourage effect, and desirable genetics, follow the passages below: 

What are Terpenes?

Terpenes are a class of hydrocarbons that exist in over 30,000 forms and typically occur naturally in perennial land plants. Even more numerous than terpenes are terpenoids – functional molecules that are modified by oxygen: fruiting or seeding plants use terpenoids to attract pollinators, defend against disease and deflect predators. Terpenoids have over 55,000 specific forms and usually produce powerful or pleasant odours in nature

We interact with terpenes and terpenoids in countless ways throughout our daily lives. In naturally occurring settings, like in fruit and food products, terpene and terpenoid profiles can be easily identified. Oranges and orange peels, for example, contain a wide variety of terpenoids like limonene, pinene and myrcene; these, among others, are largely responsible for the sweet-smelling oils and odours produced by oranges (Rodriguez et al, 2011, para. 11). Additionally, terpenes and terpenoids have been synthesized into household products, enhancing the taste and smell of perfumes, cosmetics, cleaning products and consumer goods like food and drink. 

Common Terpenes in Popular Genetics

A wide spectrum of terpenes can be found throughout the industry’s most popular genetics. However, much like naturally occurring fruit and flowers in our environment, terpenes can do more than just produce pleasant smells – they can also perpetuate feelings of well-being, promote energy, or induce relaxing medicinal properties. Read more to find out which terpene profiles are found in the industry’s most popular genetics!

Terpinolene

Typically producing sweet, sharp and piney floral notes, terpinolene is commonly found in sativa dominant strains like Dutch Treat, Jack Herer and Golden Pineapple. Terpinolene is often described as having a fresh, vibrant and warm scent, and occurs naturally in fruit and flora like lilies, lilacs, cumin, nutmeg and apples. Giving the user an uplifting and energetic wind, strains high in terpinolene are usually high in cannabinoids like THC and have a natural resistance to pests and predators.

Caryophyllene

Strains with dominant terpenes like caryophyllene immerse its audience with high-profile scents of pepper, cloves and woody spice. Other flowers and seed pods, like hops or star anise, carry a high concentration of caryophyllene; in cannabis, however, strains like Purple Punch or Pineapple Express are among the most popular with high levels of caryophyllene. You can expect relaxing, calming, body-numbing effects or stress-release from strains with this terpenoid profile. 

Pinene

Common in strains like Skywalker, Critical Mass and Blue Dream, pinene is a terpene profile favourited by growers in the Pacific Northwest. Smelling of basil, dill, pine needles and tree sap, pinene is one of the most common terpenoid products in the world and is useful for relieving pain and promoting anti-inflammatory agents. 

Ocimene

Ocimene is a terpene responsible for promoting sweet, herbaceous and floral scents in many popular strains of cannabis, and also has a high concentration in flora and food such as honey, parsley, orchids and mint. Because of its almost soapy sweetness, ocimene is used in high levels in the production of cosmetics and perfume, but can also be found in fragrant strains like Strawberry Cough, Space Queen and Sour Diesel. 

Myrcene

Another common terpenoid, myrcene is abundantly found in products like lemongrass, thyme and cardamom. It is also noted as being one of the most desirable terpenoid profiles, not only in its ability to promote sedation, anti-anxiety and pain relief but also in myrcene’s scent, which overwhelms receptions with notes of musky earth, leather, peat and sweet oak. Common myrcene strains include OG Kush, Grape Ape and Granddaddy Purple. 

Terpenes and the Entourage-Effect 

The entourage effect is a theory that describes the synergistic effect of THC, flavonoids, cannabinoids and terpenes contributing to the overall “experience” of cannabis consumption (Russo, 2019, para. 17). While most growers focus on cannabinoids like THC and CBD to determine the success of a garden, the presence of terpenes in flowers is also a major contributor that determines a crop’s desired effect. For example, growers and consumers alike may select specific strains, not just for characteristics, cannabinoid ratios, and output, but also on the distinct and specific terpenoid profile they possess.

Strain Profile Example for Purple Punch:

• THC – Aids Sleep, Relaxation, Pain and Inflammation
• Myrcene – Aids Sleep and Relaxation
• Caryophyllene – Aids Pain and Inflammation
• Pinene – Aids Pain, Inflammation and Anxiety

Many of the terpenes that we have discussed above have medicinal properties; for example, myrcene, a terpenoid that is known for its ability to relax or mildly sedate an individual has been used for centuries in teas, oils and salves to promote relaxation and overall well-being. Lemongrass, for instance, is a plant with high levels of myrcene and has continually been used in eastern medicine as a way to relieve stomach cramps, aches, pains and fevers. Knowing that some of the industry’s most popular strains possess the same therapeutic terpenoids, it’s easy to understand why growers flock to a certain set of desired genetics. 

Enhance Your Terpenes

Adding certain flowering additives to your nutrient regime can enhance the natural processes within flowering plants that these flavours and aromas. For example, if you are growing a strain with a dominant terpinolene terpene profile, then certain supplements can help bring out the fresh, floral notes during flower. GreenPlanet Nutrients Rezin and Rhizoflora Terpinator improve the terpenoid profile of a strain to deliver an unmatched final product.

Want to access some of the best-synthesized terpenes on the market? Talk to your GreenPlanet representative about our entire list of True Blue products and terpene enhancing additives! For all other inquiries, contact a member of the GreenPlanet sales team, or your local garden supply store for product information and purchasing inquiries. 

Works Cited

• Rodríguez, A. (2011). Terpene down-regulation in orange reveals the role of fruit aromas in mediating interactions with insect herbivores and pathogens. Plant Physiology, 793–802. Retrieved February 8th, 2021 from US National Library of Medicine. 
• Russo, E. (2019). The case for the entourage effect and conventional breeding of clinical cannabis: No “strain,” no gain. Frontiers in Plant Science. Retrieved February 8th, 2020 from US National Library of Medicine.

Latest News And Announcements

• 
  Hand-Trimming vs. Machine-Trimming: Pros and ConsDecember 6, 2021
  There seems to be a clear divide in the industry between those who hand-trim cannabis, and those who opt for trimming machines. Hand-trimmers argue that… Read more: Hand-Trimming vs. Machine-Trimming: Pros and Cons
• 
  5 Tips on Drying and Curing CannabisNovember 1, 2021
  The process of properly drying and curing cannabis presents growers with a variety of new challenges. Similar to ageing fine wine or spirits, the drying… Read more: 5 Tips on Drying and Curing Cannabis
• 
  4 Types of Growers Who Should Use GreenPlanet Nutrients Dual FuelOctober 18, 2021
  Committing to a brand of plant food is perhaps one of the most important decisions to be made in the garden. Choosing a specific fertilizer,… Read more: 4 Types of Growers Who Should Use GreenPlanet Nutrients Dual Fuel

Ranging from mid-May to late October, the outdoor season in Canada has the potential to produce tremendous results. Growing outdoors is the perfect time for new growers to test genetics, experiment with fertilizers and practice different growing systems and techniques. If successful, outdoor gardens at scale can produce bountiful harvests, with plants that fruit large, heavy flowers, and crops that produce more dry weight for a smaller investment. While this growing season has many potential benefits for new and distinguished growers, there are countless hazards to mitigate before reaping the rewards of an outdoor garden. Follow the article below for a list of potential hazards you might face in the garden this season: 

Potential Environmental Hazards 

The passages below encompass some of the environmental hazards you may face during any season of gardening outdoors. Unlike growing indoors, there is no way to mitigate the environment of your garden. And as we all know, mother nature can occasionally be fickle in her approach to our outdoor activities. So, while there is no way to completely eliminate environmental hazards in the garden, there are steps and techniques we can take to manage the harmful and crop-damaging effects of extreme heat, rain, wind, snow and frost or other natural hazards like pests and disease.

Harmful Weather

Harmful weather during the outdoor season typically occurs during the later months of spring, or during the early weeks of autumn; however, damaging weather can transpire at any time. So, be vigilant against potential hazards, and focus your attention on weather forecast reports in your local area. 

While it is important to keep a close eye on the garden at all times, there are two important stages of growth when plants must be meticulously monitored: during transplant, and during the days before harvest. Mitigating the weather during transplant is extremely important because if the weather at this time is anything less than ideal, the chances of losing your plants to a rainy, cold or overly windy Spring drastically increases.

To manage harmful weather conditions during the outset of the season, consider planting late rather than early. For example, while most experts recommend transplanting outdoors a few weeks into May, sowing plants into their permanent homes in early June, may be a better option when faced with poor weather.

Likewise, the weather must be constantly surveyed as plants near their harvest date. During this time, usually around the later weeks of September or early October, plants will have developed the bulk of their flowers, and trichome heads will start to become clouded and later amber. As the harvest date approaches, weather conditions need to be monitored closely as early morning frost, rain, and plights of wind can damage flowers, freeze roots, or aggravate pre-existing stress. To prevent upsets during the early weeks of autumn, consider offering plants shelter during colder and wetter periods of September and October. 

Pests and Plant Disease

Other natural hazards, like pests and plant disease, offer increased risk to plants during the outdoor season. Among the most common pests include the two-spotted spider mite, thrips, the fungus gnat and the aphid. Some pests can be more damaging than others, however, all variants of the insects listed above can be destructive to plants. To catch pests before they completely damage a crop, study and review the different types of “leaf-damage” associated with specific insects. 

Pesky Pests To Look Out For

Although pests have the potential to upset a crop, plant disease can be even more detrimental. Root-rot, powdery-mildew, rust and bud-rot are among the most typical issues plants experience during the outdoor season. To combat these hazards, attempt to stabilize plants by offering them a consistent environment and a reliable feeding schedule. More often than not, plant disease is exacerbated by weak genetics and unstable periods of low temperatures and high humidity.

Plant Diseases To Watch Out For

So, the best thing you can do for your outdoor garden is to use fresh and reliable genetics, while offering them shelter or disease treatment if problems arise. For more information on mitigating potential hazards, read the passages below. 

Managing Hazards 

Because the outdoor garden is full of potential hazards, in some cases, it’s only a matter of time before one of the many destructive influences in our environment affects the outcome of a crop. For the best chance of managing these hazards, follow the prescribed tools, techniques and considerations below: 

Choose the “Right” Genetics

Choosing the “right” type of plant is perhaps the most important factor in achieving a successful harvest during the outdoor season. In this case, the “right” plant can be described as a genetic structure that is highly resistant to stressors such as pests, disease, or extreme environmental conditions. Furthermore, choosing a strain that will finish early in the season, as opposed to genetics that will ripen weeks after the average harvest date, will ensure that hazards are less likely to negatively influence the outcome of your garden. 

For example: consider an outdoor classic like Northern Lights. Known to be resistant to heat, cold, pests and disease, Northern Lights is the low growing, heavy hitter, that’s sure to reach maturity with little or no issues.

Set Your Plants Up for Success

Along with a stable feeding program, the most adept outdoor growers enrich their crops with supplements like GreenPlanet Nutrients Vitathrive and Plant Guard to reduce the likelihood of a hazardous season. Vitathrive is GreenPlanet’s propagation supplement that contains a full complement of b-vitamins and elements that aid the plant through the vegetative stage. Among other benefits, Vitathrive helps to reduce the stresses that come from rapid cell growth, environmental conditions, and heavy fruit loads. GreenPlanet’s potassium silicate supplement, Plant Guard, also helps prepare your plants for extreme weather conditions, by strengthening cell walls and increasing resistance to environmental stress and plant disease. 

Disease and Pest Control 

When hazards like pests and disease arise, using tested and reliable controls can decrease the chance of these issues escalating to point of no return. For pests, two controls have been tested to produce reliable results: LockDown Pads and Doktor Doom Products. LockDown Pads are an economy and unobtrusive way of controlling pests at the source. By correctly using LockDown Pads during the outdoor season, soil-dwelling pests like fungus gnats and thrips will be caught at the source of breeding and will leave your foliage untouched by harmful damage. On the other hand, Doktor Doom’s aerosol pesticides can be used if the pest problem has become so noticeable that it has begun to affect the general growth patterns of your plant. 

Need continued support with your outdoor crop? GreenPlanet Wholesale is here to help!  For more information about the products mentioned above, please contact GreenPlanet Wholesale directly. For all other inquiries about products and services offered by GreenPlanet Wholesale, contact our team or your local garden supply store for more information. 

Latest News And Announcements

• 
  Hand-Trimming vs. Machine-Trimming: Pros and Cons
  by Mya Green
  December 6, 2021
  There seems to be a clear divide in the industry between those who hand-trim cannabis, and those who opt for trimming machines. Hand-trimmers argue that… Read more: Hand-Trimming vs. Machine-Trimming: Pros and Cons
• 
  5 Tips on Drying and Curing Cannabis
  by Mya Green
  November 1, 2021
  The process of properly drying and curing cannabis presents growers with a variety of new challenges. Similar to ageing fine wine or spirits, the drying… Read more: 5 Tips on Drying and Curing Cannabis
• 
  4 Types of Growers Who Should Use GreenPlanet Nutrients Dual Fuel
  by Mya Green
  October 18, 2021
  Committing to a brand of plant food is perhaps one of the most important decisions to be made in the garden. Choosing a specific fertilizer,… Read more: 4 Types of Growers Who Should Use GreenPlanet Nutrients Dual Fuel