Greenhouse cultivation process:
- Germination of cannabis seeds: The seed is germinated in a controlled environment and allowed to grow in the pot until the rhizome (root set) is strong enough to support a young plant and to withstand transplanting.
- Sowing or transplanting: Seedlings are transplanted from nurseries into the growing beds inside the greenhouse or into larger overhead growing pots. This step may vary depending on the type of plant and the specific growing conditions.
- Environmental control: Throughout the cultivation process, various environmental factors within the greenhouse, such as temperature, humidity, ventilation and lighting, are controlled and adjusted. This is done through heating, ventilation, irrigation and shading systems, as well as the use of technology such as sensors and automated systems.
- Watering and fertilisation: Plants are watered regularly to maintain the right level of moisture in the soil or substrate. In addition, fertilisers are applied according to the specific needs of the plants and growth stages. In general, to create an organic crop instead of nitrate-laden substrates or fertilisers, worm hummus, a natural component based on detritus and the remains of decomposing organic matter generated by earthworms, is added to the soil.
- Pest and disease control: Integrated pest and disease control measures are implemented to prevent and control problems that may affect the crop. This may include the use of insecticides, fungicides, traps and the introduction of natural enemies of pests. Some plants have been shown to generate natural defences that prevent the proliferation of pests that can affect entire crops, and introducing them alongside your crops produces a synergy between plants that work together. An example is the Calendula flower used in lettuce or mustard crops which helps to control the proliferation of parasites such as thrips.
- Monitoring and maintenance: Regular monitoring of the crop is carried out to detect any problems or need for adjustment in the management of the greenhouse. Maintenance of equipment and infrastructure is also carried out to ensure its proper functioning.
- Harvest and post-harvest: Once the plants have reached maturity, the buds are harvested, dried and cured. Depending on the type of crop, post-harvest processes such as washing, sorting, packaging and storage for marketing may be carried out.
