All About Cultivation: Meet Your Growers!

• Cannabis cultivation is a complex interplay of environmental factors, genetics, and technological innovations.
• Green Thumb Industries shapes the cannabis industry by merging traditional and modern cultivation methods.
• GTI's Cultivation Training Program fosters skilled leaders through hands-on experience and emphasizes humility, hard work, and diversity in cultivating cannabis expertise.

The landscape of cannabis cultivation in the U.S. is as varied and vibrant as the strains it produces. With each state charting its own course, the industry is in a constant state of evolution, driven by legal shifts and cultural transformations.

In this dynamic environment, Green Thumb Industries is a notable player. They're more than just growers; they're contributors to the industry's progress. By combining traditional knowledge with modern practices, they play a part in shaping the industry's standards for quality and innovation.

Let's embark on a journey into the intricate world of cannabis cultivation, where the expertise and commitment of Green Thumb Industries' growers help illuminate the path.

The Evolution of Cannabis Cultivation in the U.S.

In the early days, cannabis was primarily cultivated for its industrial uses, particularly hemp. It wasn't until the early 20th century that the plant began to face legal restrictions, which culminated in the Marijuana Tax Act of 1937, effectively making cannabis cultivation a regulated and, in many cases, a criminal activity. The following decades saw cannabis pushed further into the shadows, with the War on Drugs in the 1970s amplifying the plant's illegal status.

However, the closing decades of the 20th century brought a shift. The societal attitudes towards cannabis began to change, paving the way for a legal revolution. Starting with California's Proposition 215 in 1996, which legalized medical cannabis, the U.S. witnessed a gradual yet significant transformation in its approach to cannabis cultivation.

Fast forward to today, and the legal landscape for cannabis cultivation in the U.S. is a patchwork of differing state laws and regulations. While federal law still classifies cannabis as a Schedule I substance, numerous states have taken their own paths.

Some states have fully legalized cannabis for both medical and recreational use, allowing for regulated cultivation and sale. Others have limited legalization to medical use only, often with strict guidelines on cultivation. There are also states where cannabis remains entirely illegal, maintaining the status quo of prohibition.

This variance in state laws not only reflects differing legal approaches but also a diverse range of societal attitudes towards cannabis. In states where cultivation is legal, there are often robust regulatory frameworks in place, governing everything from the licensing of growers to the quality and safety standards of the product.

The evolution of cannabis cultivation in the U.S. mirrors the nation's journey from restriction to a gradual embrace. As each state writes its own chapter in this ongoing story, the landscape continues to evolve, shaped by legal rulings, technological advancements, and shifting societal views.

Understanding the Art and Science of Cannabis Cultivation

Cannabis cultivation is a delicate interplay of art and science, where understanding the needs of the plant is as crucial as the technical skills required to meet those needs. Several key factors come into play, each holding significant sway over the final quality and characteristics of the cannabis produced.

Key Factors in Cannabis Cultivation

• Light: Light is the cornerstone of cannabis cultivation. The quality, intensity, and duration of light the plant receives can drastically influence its growth, flowering, and potency. Growers meticulously control light cycles to simulate seasonal changes, thereby managing the plant's life stages.
• Water: The importance of water in cannabis cultivation cannot be overstated. However, it's not just about quantity; the timing and consistency of watering are critical. Overwatering or underwatering can have detrimental effects, making water management a precise science.
• Soil: Soil quality plays a pivotal role in providing the plant with a stable and nutrient-rich foundation. Different strains may prefer different soil types, and factors like pH balance and soil texture are often carefully monitored.
• Nutrients: Cannabis plants require a variety of nutrients at different stages of their growth. Nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium are the primary nutrients, but secondary nutrients and trace elements are also vital. Understanding the delicate balance of these nutrients is key to healthy growth.

Importance of Genetics and Strain Selection

Genetics and strain selection are the heart and soul of cannabis cultivation. The genetic makeup of a plant determines not only its potential potency and flavor profile but also its growth characteristics and resilience to diseases. Growers often spend considerable time selecting and sometimes breeding strains that meet specific criteria, be it medicinal efficacy, yield, or aroma.

The Role of Technology and Innovation

Modern cannabis cultivation has embraced technology and innovation at every turn. From automated irrigation systems to LED lighting, technology has revolutionized how cannabis is grown. It has enabled growers to achieve precise control over the growing environment, ensuring optimal conditions throughout the plant's lifecycle.

Innovations in cultivation practices also include hydroponics and aeroponics, where plants are grown without soil, opening doors to more efficient use of space and resources. Data-driven cultivation, where every aspect of the grow process is monitored and adjusted based on real-time data, is pushing the boundaries of what's possible in cannabis cultivation.

Understanding the art and science of cannabis cultivation is key to appreciating the complexity behind the final product. It's a process that combines traditional knowledge with cutting-edge technology, driven by a deep understanding of the plant's needs. As the industry continues to evolve, so too do the cultivation practices, constantly pushing towards higher standards of quality and sustainability.

Well-Being Through the Power of Cannabis

Green Thumb Industries (GTI) not only excels in cannabis cultivation but also shines through its diverse and unique brands, each offering a distinct experience:

RYTHM

RYTHM combines a passion for both music and cannabis, recognizing their powerful influence on mood and perception. This brand offers a wide selection of strains that cater to different preferences, available in various forms including premium flower, vapes, and concentrates. RYTHM is about personal exploration and finding a balance that resonates with individual lifestyles, making it a favorite among those who seek a harmonious blend of quality and experience.

Dogwalkers

Dogwalkers is more than just a cannabis product; it's a tribute to the simple joys in life, like walking with a loyal pet. Their pre-rolls are known for their quality, made from premium flower and expert craftsmanship. Dogwalkers stands out for its commitment to animal welfare, dedicating a portion of proceeds to animal shelters. This brand appeals to those who value not just the quality of their cannabis experience but also the social impact of their purchase.

incredibles

As the 'Credible Edible', incredibles is renowned for its range of deliciously flavored and consistently dosed edibles. From chocolates to gummies, mints, and tarts, each product is crafted with 100% pure cannabis oil. The brand ensures a reliable and enjoyable experience, eliminating the guesswork often associated with edibles. Incredibles is perfect for those who prefer their cannabis experience to be both flavorful and predictable.

Beboe

Beboe caters to a more refined cannabis experience, combining luxury with mindfulness. Their products, which include sophisticated flavors and blends, are designed for social settings, with lower THC levels to enhance the day without overwhelming effects. Beboe is ideal for those who seek a stylish, subtle, and elevated cannabis experience, perfect for social gatherings or personal indulgence.

Good Green

Good Green is a brand with a mission, focusing on the positive potential of cannabis to bring wellness and support communities affected by the War on Drugs. They invest in initiatives that promote education, employment, and legal expungement, making a significant social impact. This brand is for those who view their cannabis consumption as part of a larger movement towards social justice and community support.

Doctor Solomon’s

Doctor Solomon’s is rooted in the belief in the therapeutic potential of cannabinoids. Their products, ranging from topicals to tinctures, are developed based on scientific research to address various ailments. They offer solutions for those seeking alternative ways to manage their health challenges, combining the best of nature and scientific innovation.

&Shine

Embodying the ethos of good vibes, &Shine is all about matching cannabis products to the desired mood or occasion. Whether it's for an energizing lift, a relaxing unwind, or something in between, &Shine provides a range of options.

This brand is ideal for those who want their cannabis experience to adapt to their lifestyle, mood, and social setting.

Each brand not only delivers a unique product but also embodies a distinct philosophy and approach to cannabis, catering to a wide range of preferences and purposes.

Meet Your Growers: Interviews with Green Thumb Industries Experts

What distinguishes an exceptional cannabis cultivator? What insights and practices transform a simple seed into a premium cannabis product? To unravel these mysteries, we've arranged exclusive interviews with the expert growers at Green Thumb Industries. These professionals are the backbone of the cultivation process, the dedicated individuals who orchestrate the growth and care of the plants.

In these interviews, they'll delve into the complexities and rewarding moments of cannabis cultivation, offering a glimpse into their personal journeys and perspectives on the industry's evolution. Each grower has a unique approach and style, but they all share a deep commitment to the art and science of cannabis cultivation.

Nicole Dupuis (she/her), Head Grower

How long have you worked at GTI and in the cannabis industry?

I have worked for Green Thumb Industries a little over two years now. I was previously with Affinity for about a year and a half before GTI took over. For Affinity I was the Assistant Head Grower and since GTI has taken over I worked hard and proved myself to move up to Head Grower. In total I have worked in the cannabis industry about 3 and a half years.

Can you share a little about your role and work at GTI?

I am the Head Grower over in Clinton, MA for GTI. My day-to-day role entails overseeing the workflow of cultivation and ensuring plant work gets done well and we stay on schedule. I oversee a staff of 16 employees and they are a great group to work with. My team makes work enjoyable and we put out some great flower! Without them I would not be where I am today. Every day I look for ways to improve the garden so it can be the best that it can be. I also work very closely with the processing department to ensure product is processed with the best quality possible.

What sparked your interest in becoming a cultivator?

Ever since I was a little kid, I loved science and being outdoors. I realized I was happiest in nature and wanted a job that could mimic that. I went to school for Environmental Studies at Keene State College and just fell in love with plants. When I graduated it took me a few years to finally get in the door to work in cannabis. It is very rewarding seeing all the hard work that is put into each plant and taking it all the way from clone to veg and flower. At the end seeing this beautiful plant and seeing everything pay off. I also believe this plant can do a lot for people medically. We have only just begun to see its potential.

What inspires you about the cannabis industry?

What inspires me about the cannabis industry is the fact that we are living history. We saw this with prohibition and alcohol and now we are seeing the change in cannabis. It's inspiring to be a part of changing the perspective on cannabis and educating people on its many potentials. It was looked at as taboo, but now it's a product that can help people with so many things. It feels good to be a part of something that is bigger than you.

How has cannabis made an impact on your life?

Cannabis has impacted my life in many positive ways. I am someone who suffers from depression and anxiety and cannabis has helped me feel more comfortable and confident within myself. It helps calm my racing thoughts and be able to slow down and think. Besides the medical effects that it has improved for me, cannabis has also provided me with a good job and a job that I enjoy doing. It has allowed me to do something I love every day and that is working with plants.

Can you tell us a little about what makes up cultivation on a commercial scale?

Cultivation on a commercial scale is so much different than home growing. The plant work and techniques are so different as you are catering to many more plants. Commercially there is more of a schedule that must be followed and deadlines to hit to stay on that schedule. You also must consider that you want to grow strains that are production friendly. Some plants don't have high yields or test lower. Some strains may take too much work to defoliate or have poor structure. All factors when looking to grow commercially.

What are some of the challenges cultivators face growing Cannabis in your state?

Some challenges cultivators face growing in Massachusetts are how tough the regulations are. We have a lot of hoops to jump through compliance-wise. As cannabis becomes more accepted and being produced in more states, I think you will see regulations change.

What is a part of the cultivation process that you think would surprise people?

I think what would surprise people would be how much work in general it takes to grow a cannabis plant. Each strain needs something different from the other. Yet we grow so many different strains and make it work.

What is your favorite GTI product or strain?

Picking one product and strain that would be my favorite from GTI is so hard! We have so many strains that I enjoy. But if I had to pick one it would be Gelonade. It's a new strain for us and only have produced it a couple of times now. The terpene profile is amazing. So citrusy and the high is just so balanced and uplifting. The flower has amazing purple colors in contrast to the bright orange hairs.

Andrew Demetri (he/him), Assistant Head Grower

How long have you worked at GTI and in the cannabis industry?

1 year 4 months.

Can you share a little about your role and work at GTI?

Help to supervise team members on driving quality, safety, and efficiency within the cultivation and harvest aspects of the facility.

What sparked your interest in becoming a cultivator?

Caring for the plants and medicine being produced for all. There are so many avenues of science within the grow from nutrients, cloning, pest management, stress training, and many more; it highly interests me. Being able to fine-tune each subject of study or sub-department of the grow makes it a fun game to produce the highest quality product. Understanding the science that drives our practices helps to troubleshoot when problems arise or when we try to increase efficiency/quality.

What inspires you about the cannabis industry?

How new the industry is, Cannabis helps people all across the world in a multitude of ways. Current research comes out across the board from pharmacology to extraction, to cultivation, and to harvest. Scientists and industry professionals are trying to maximize quality and understanding in so many ways, that new findings/research comes out regularly.

How has cannabis made an impact on your life?

It has given me purpose in a professional way; I enjoy being a part of the ever-changing industry and being amongst the first legal producers and processors of this relatively new 'legal' agricultural commodity. Knowing the products I produce help consumers in various ways, brings joy to me as well.

What is your favorite GTI product or strain?

L'Orange or Night Owl Haze (Premium Flower).

Tell us about sleeper strains - What is a great strain that no one knows about?

Low-high testing strains with robust terpene profiles.

GTI Cultivation Training Program

GTI Cultivation training program was established in 2021 and has been based out of the West Haven, CT grow facility, known as Advanced Grow Labs. The program was started to help the organization scale in size while working toward developing talented and thoughtful cultivation leaders. GTI believes in identifying prospective Head and Assistant Head Growers within our ranks first and foremost. We love to promote within!

The CT facility has been used as a training ground for external hires when we have specific cultivation leadership gaps within the organization. Trainees are hired with the goal of becoming Assistant Head Growers, with a goal of developing into a Head Grower position over time.

The training program takes course over a 90-day period where trainees are familiarized with GTI National cultivation standards, practice, and procedure. During this time, there is also a focus on team leadership, management, and organizational skills to ensure that our trainees are prepared to be successful in their new roles. It is also important to instill the core values of the GTI workforce during this training period so that trainees understand the expectations from us and from our peers.

The values emphasized during the training are being humble, kind, hardworking, and always operating with integrity. We appreciate a diverse workforce and leadership group, as perspectives from different backgrounds usually bring out the best ideas, solutions, and collaborative initiatives. Candidates are chosen through a normal interview screening process. We prefer individuals who have plant experience and knowledge, not necessarily cannabis-specific, but being familiar with plants and how they operate is certainly a plus. Attitude is everything! Candidates are typically chosen for their eagerness to learn, desire to work, passion for the plant, and potential for long-term retention.

We take pride that we have little to no turnover at these positions and love the fact that our employees want to work with us, just as much as we enjoy working with them.

As the cannabis landscape continues to evolve, the world of cultivation remains dynamic and ever-changing. New techniques, evolving regulations, and emerging technologies are constantly shaping and reshaping the way cannabis is grown. Yet, at the heart of it all are the growers, whose expertise and commitment ensure that the industry continues to thrive and innovate.

In closing, the journey through cannabis cultivation is a testament to human ingenuity and nature's wonders. It's a field where science meets art, challenges inspire breakthroughs, and every harvest tells a story. As we move forward, let's continue to celebrate the growers, embrace the learning, and appreciate the extraordinary world of cannabis cultivation.