PHOTOx Advanced Sciences 2024: Cannabis Industry Takeaways

This year’s PHOTOx conference focused on the increasing sophistication and data-driven approaches being adopted across the cannabis cultivation industry. From advanced lighting techniques and data science to optimize nutrient regimes and pest management, the event showcased the industry’s evolution from its legacy practices to a more technology-driven future. We’ll walk through highlights from the event and notable quotes from industry experts.

Key Themes and Ideas

1. Data-Driven Cultivation

The Golden Metric (PCE): Travis Higginbotham from Due Diligence Horticulture introduced “grams per mole per meter squared per cycle” (PCE) as a crucial metric for evaluating cultivation efficiency. He highlighted the significant gap between current industry averages (0.2 g/mole) and the demonstrated potential (0.4 g/mole). This metric underscores the need for optimized lighting strategies, environmental control, and nutrient management.

Data Science & Digital Twins: Ben Niehaus from Specs AI emphasized the power of data science in optimizing cultivation. He presented their technology that utilizes machine learning to analyze plant images and predict growth patterns, disease, and optimal conditions. This data-driven approach empowers growers to make informed decisions and achieve predictable outcomes.

2. Advanced Lighting Technologies

Intercanopy Lighting (ICL): Dominic van Gruisen from Innexo showcased the potential of ICL to increase yields and reduce electricity consumption. Their research demonstrated a 15% yield increase and a 35% electricity reduction by strategically integrating ICL with no-veg cultivation strategies. This technique challenges conventional lighting practices and offers a compelling solution for maximizing profitability.

Beyond Traditional Metrics: Dave Hawley, Fluence’s Global R&D lead, stressed the importance of moving beyond simplistic metrics like grams per square foot. He emphasized the need to focus on factors like plant quality, cannabinoid and terpene profiles, and consumer experience. This shift towards holistic quality assessment is crucial for the industry’s long-term success.

3. Optimized Growing Practices

Nutrient Management: Dr. Youbin Zheng, a Professor with the School of Environmental Sciences at the University of Guelph, debunked common myths surrounding cannabis nutrient requirements. He presented his research-backed nutrient recipe and emphasized the importance of avoiding over-fertilization, particularly with phosphorus. He advocated for precise nutrient management based on plant needs and growth stage, highlighting the economic and environmental benefits.

Drying & Curing: David Sandelman from Cannatrol challenged traditional drying methods that rely on inconsistent metrics like humidity. He presented water activity as the key indicator of properly dried and cured cannabis, emphasizing its impact on terpene retention, mold prevention, and shelf life. Cannatrol’s vapor control technology offers a precise solution for achieving optimal water activity and maximizing flower quality.

4. Pest & Disease Management

The Ever-Swarm: Matthew Gates from Zentanol Consulting introduced the concept of the “Everswarm” to describe the constantly evolving threat of pests and diseases. He stressed the need for adaptive, multi-faceted Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies that consider regional variations, trade patterns, and the potential for resistance development.

Technology-Driven IPM: Gates highlighted emerging technologies like drone-based pest detection, multispectral imaging, and spore sensors as valuable tools for early detection and proactive pest management. These technologies offer a glimpse into the future of IPM in cannabis cultivation.

5. Future Trends

Triploid Breeding: Dr. Allison Justice, the Founder and CEO of the Cannabis Research Coalition and the Hemp Mine, discussed the potential of triploid breeding to produce seedless, high-yielding, and potentially more potent cannabis varieties. While acknowledging the challenges associated with triploid seed viability, she highlighted the potential benefits for large-scale cultivation and product differentiation.

Marker-Assisted Selection (MAS): Dr. Alisha Holloway, the Chief Science Officer at Phylos, presented MAS as a powerful tool for accelerating breeding programs and developing cultivars with specific traits like high THCV content, desired terpene profiles, and disease resistance. This technology empowers breeders to make targeted selections and significantly reduce breeding timelines.

Valuable Insights from PHOTOx

Overall, PHOTOx 2024 provided valuable insights into the evolving landscape of cannabis cultivation. By embracing data-driven approaches, advanced technologies, and scientifically validated practices, the industry is poised to achieve new levels of efficiency, profitability, and product quality. As the cannabis market matures, continued innovation and collaboration will be crucial for navigating challenges and capitalizing on emerging opportunities.

Notable quotes from industry experts.

“This is actually manufacturing. I need it to be in specification and we’re happy with yield.” – Travis Higginbotham, Due Diligence Horticulture

“Traditional post-harvest methods are stuck in the stone age.” – David Sandelman, Cannatrol

“Feed your plants well just like you feed your kids. Yeah. Don’t starve them.” – Dr. Youbin Zheng, University of Guelph

“Radical is good. Radical means that you can go on, continue to innovate.” – Dominic van Gruisen, Innexo

“Science takes time. You know, if something’s created overnight, you know, they’re either lying that they created it or maybe it’s not quite ready.” – Dr. Allison Justice, Cannabis Research Coalition