In the latest episode of the Grip Cannabis Connection podcast, Corey Lord and Logan delve into the advantages and disadvantages of indoor versus outdoor cannabis cultivation. They explore how cannabis companies balance these factors to make informed decisions about their growing methods. This blog post summarizes their insightful discussion, highlighting key points on the pros and cons of each approach and the factors that influence companies' cultivation choices.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Indoor and Outdoor Growing:
Logan emphasizes the love that plants have for being outdoors, enjoying the sunshine and its positive impact on their growth. However, he notes that the uncontrollable weather is a major disadvantage of outdoor cultivation. In contrast, indoor growing provides year-round control over the growing environment, but it requires expertise and the production of a high-quality product to succeed in the competitive market.
Balancing Goals and Ego:
The decision between indoor and outdoor cultivation ultimately depends on the goals of the cannabis company. Corey highlights the importance of setting ego aside and focusing on executing goals and ambitions. Regardless of the cultivation method, plant care is crucial for successful cultivation and achieving thriving plants.
Dealing with Pest Pressure:
Both indoor and outdoor cultivation face common pest pressures, such as mold, mildew, and insects. However, Logan shares his experience with caterpillar and worm pressures, which were unexpected challenges for outdoor cultivation. Understanding the local climate and environment is essential for optimizing cultivation techniques and addressing potential issues promptly.
Financial Considerations and Consumer Needs:
Logan and Corey discuss the financial goals, yield goals, and cost goals that drive companies' decisions on cultivation methods. Indoor cultivation allows for the highest control over plant quality, but it comes with higher overhead costs. On the other hand, outdoor cultivation offers the advantage of lower unit prices, enabling companies to pass on savings to the consumers who seek consistent, value-driven products.
Choosing Cultivation Methods:
Companies consider various factors when deciding on their cultivation methods. Risk assessment plays a crucial role, with outdoor cultivation posing weather-related risks that could lead to success or failure. Harvest timing preferences and consumer availability also influence the decision, as does the company's mission and overall goals.
Optimizing Growing Environments and Techniques:
Indoor facilities strive to mimic ideal greenhouse conditions, including temperature, humidity, and airflow. Advanced technology facilitates maintaining precise set points for optimal plant growth. In contrast, outdoor growing conditions are subject to weather fluctuations, necessitating vigilance and adaptability to address changing conditions effectively.
Differences in techniques between indoor and outdoor cultivation mainly lie in watering practices and adapting to specific weather situations. Adjusting fertilizer feeds in response to extended rainfall is a common practice for outdoor cultivation, while indoor cultivation benefits from precise control over nutrients and environmental factors.
The choice between indoor and outdoor cannabis cultivation depends on a company's goals, risk tolerance, and the ability to adapt to changing environmental conditions. By understanding the advantages and disadvantages of each method and optimizing cultivation techniques accordingly, companies can produce high-quality cannabis products that meet consumer demands. Whether indoor or outdoor, the ultimate focus should be on achieving plant health and delivering consistent, affordable products to consumers.