Matt LaScala
Botanist
Adakai
Phoenix, AZ
Grow medium, technique and strain selection are arguably the biggest decisions one will make when stepping into or designing a cultivation facility. So many factors must be considered before it is decided which product lines or SKUs the material will be supporting: square footage, available power, water, accessibility, labor, etc.
Keep in mind process flow (time to flower, ease of cultivation/harvest, proclivity to pest/pathogen pressure) and carefully select the right strains for the job. For instance, it would be difficult to support an infused product line with a low-yielding, long-flowering, boutique-style genetic, as opposed to something that was selectively bred for the job. That genetic would be much better suited for a premium flower line and would likely command a better price.
When there is a large variety of strains needed and a limited number of special accommodations that can be made (particularly in larger operations), it becomes increasingly important that the selected grow medium/technique works well across the board.
At our operation, we utilize a hybrid soil blend that allows us to enjoy the “buffer” provided by a pot, while at the same time maintaining a high soil porosity so we have flexibility of true hydroponics, in terms of nutrient and pH regimens. This allows us to be slightly more accommodating as far as what genetics we can bring on, and ultimately what products make the most sense to produce.