A quick guide to growing cannabis vertically

When you think of an arable farm, you probably picture field after field full of flowering plants growing in the soil and workers tending to each row. While some cannabis grow operations are likely established this way, many producers and breeders are now showing interest in vertical growing systems.

This can sometimes come with high start-up costs, but it can be an exceptionally rewarding industry in many ways. When it’s time to explore your growing options, this vertical grow guide might have you considering vertical cannabis farms as a valid business opportunity.

What is a vertical cannabis farm?

A vertical growing system, or cannabis farm, describes a growth process that extends upwards rather than outwards. Cannabis growers buy cannabis grow racks and lighting systems and position the racks around a central light source to grow more plants in a smaller grow space. These systems are typically placed in large industrial buildings rather than in the fields where temperatures, lighting and security can be meticulously controlled.

Vertical mounting options

When weighing your options with a vertical grow operation, there are two potential layouts to consider: stacked and upright.

The stacked vertical method consists of stacked square or hexagonal shelves with a central light source. This allows growers to use all the available space between the ground and the roof, which is usually not possible with a traditional horizontal growing system.

These layouts also allow growers to deliver water and nutrients to soil-based or hydroponic plants faster and with less waste. However, those using this type of system need to keep their plants short.

The more experienced growers may want to consider a true vertical layout that looks like horizontal farms stacked on top of each other. With these systems, plants grow on the sides of the columns, with water and nutrients dripping down from the top.

Why Consider Growing Cannabis Vertically?

Deciding to change your current growing system can be an important decision, but there are many reasons why commercial growers are showing interest in vertical cannabis farming.

efficiency

A simple layout change with vertical planting could be enough to enjoy reduced energy consumption. LED lights positioned centrally above your plants can mean you use fewer lights while ensuring all your plants are getting as much light as they need.

Less space required

Owning and leasing land can be expensive, especially when you factor in the cost of buying or leasing, as well as maintenance and harvesting costs. If you build your farm upwards instead of outwards, you will have less space.

You can use previously unused space and do not have to buy or lease land. Instead, all you have to do is buy or lease a suitable building and develop your operations in a much smaller space.

More control

Outdoor growers abound in the United States, especially in areas where the climate is just right like Washington, Northern California, Maine, and Oregon. However, vertical farms can ensure growers outside of these areas don’t have to miss out on the same growing opportunities.

When you grow plants indoors, you have complete control over how much water and nutrients they receive, and you can also control the temperature. As a result, you have a much lower risk of weather-related crop failures compared to growers who rely on the outside elements.

Easy installation process

When vertical farming practices were not commonplace, innovative farmers had to develop their own mounting racks and systems. However, the industry has come a long way. If you are interested in becoming a vertical grower, you can now purchase pre-built systems and grow racks that can be installed immediately.

Easy expansion option

The cannabis industry is growing and dispensaries are opening their doors across the United States hoping to partner with quality growers to provide their customers with what they want. If you’re struggling to keep up with demand using traditional horizontal farming practices, vertical farming offers a quick and easy way to expand.

You can increase your yield quickly and potentially even enjoy an extra crop cycle compared to traditional growing methods. Before long, you could be well on your way to producing more cannabis to meet demand than you originally anticipated.

How to start a vertical farm

You may understand the many benefits associated with vertical farming, but that doesn’t mean you know where to start. Sometimes it can be as simple as following the steps below.

Step 1: Buy grow racks

Grow racks are a key component of any vertical farm, so they should be one of your first considerations. Fortunately, there are many highly reputable grow rack manufacturers who can help you create the best vertical farming setup.

Step 2: Buy an LED lighting system

LED lighting is efficient, durable and versatile for a range of cannabis grow operations. It also burns cooler, likely reducing the risk of light burns for your plants. There are many different LED lighting systems on the market, so look for one that specifically says it’s suitable for vertical growing.

Step 3: Buy your crop

It is important to realize that cannabis plants need to grow shorter in a vertical arrangement than in a horizontal one. Some strains grow taller than others, so consider buying indica strains as opposed to sativas, which could cause spatial issues as they enter different growth stages.

Step 4: Set up your setup

Before starting your new operation, take the time to ensure you have a well-established grow area that will serve you well for many grow cycles to come. Consider where the water will drip onto your plants, where you will place your new grow racks, and the positioning of your lighting to ensure all plants benefit.

You may also see the value in installing floor drains to dispose of nutrient water left over from the plants, pumps to move the water, and collection tanks to store it. If you’re not sure how to set up the perfect vertical grow operation, consider bringing in experts during the planning phase to avoid problems you might not have anticipated.

Growing cannabis vertically can take time and effort, but it can also result in higher yields and potentially more profit while using less space. If you haven’t explored the benefits of this growing method, now might be the time to think about it.

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