Cultivating Excellence: Luma California Farms’ Pursuit of Hash and Rosin Perfection

Nestled in the scenic Petaluma Gap in Sonoma County, California, Enzo Peterson, a dedicated visionary farmer and cultivation manager at Luma California Farms, promotes sustainable cannabis cultivation.

With two decades of practical experience, he is committed to producing exceptional cannabis, guided by the rhythms of nature and a deep respect for the plant’s potential to produce high-quality hashish and rosin.

Luma’s mission is based on responsibility for the Earth

Luma California Farms was founded in 2017 by Curtis and Alexa Wall, but it wasn’t until 2020 that their first cannabis plants sprouted under the guidance of Peterson’s green thumb. What connected the trio was their shared passion for microbiology. This partnership, born of deep conversations about microbes and sustainable agriculture, paved the way for the farm to have a thriving, legitimate business that defined its place in the industry.

Gina Coleman/WeedmapsEnzo Peterson – Cultivation Manager at Luma California Farms

“The mission that brought Luma California Farms to where it is today was the pursuit of truth,” Peterson said. “The team I work with wanted to do the best job possible at growing cannabis.” The pursuit of truth led us to this growing style that focuses on living soil, organic practices, microbe-driven techniques, data-driven decision-making and making our own fertilizers… Microorganisms are one of the most important cornerstones of our approach.”

Microbes, soil health and regenerative farming

At the heart of Luma California Farms’ farming philosophy is a recognition of the critical role of microbes in promoting plant growth. A true microbe enthusiast, Peterson is committed to their transformative impact on nutrient cycling and soil health. Microbes, often unsung heroes of soil, work tirelessly behind the scenes, breaking down organic material to create a nutrient-rich environment for plants, thereby reducing the need for additional fertilizer.

Microbes in the soil are responsible for increasing resin production in cannabis. As organic matter breaks down, they release compounds that nourish plants and stimulate the production of valuable resin. This collaboration between microbes and cannabis plants results in rich, trichome-laden glory. “Our commitment to producing exceptional cannabis resin, with a particular focus on hashish and rosin, is rooted in this partnership.”

Gine Coleman/WeedmapsSun grown cannabis from Luma California Farms

One of the core principles that Peterson fully embraces is regenerative farming. At the heart of this approach is the imitation of natural ecosystems, where nutrient cycling and self-sustaining processes take center stage. Using techniques like JADAM and Korean Natural Farming, Peterson makes his fertilizers from local materials. JADAM, an innovative organic farming technique established in Korea, means “people who resemble nature”. The method minimizes the carbon footprint and shows a self-sufficiency cycle that harmonizes with the nature of the land, also known as a “closed cycle”.

The farm is fully exposed to the sun and cultivates the plants exclusively in the ground throughout the season, without using greenhouses. As Peterson puts it: “The goal is to demonstrate the power of terroir. The aim is to highlight the value of a product grown in a specific location that is impossible to reproduce. This goal cannot be achieved in a greenhouse or indoor facility.” This commitment to terroir-focused cultivation demonstrates the farm’s commitment to presenting a product that embodies the authentic essence of its origins.

Hashish and Rosin: Creating the Ultimate Expression of Cannabis

While many cannabis farms prioritize flower production, Luma California Farms takes a special approach and is dedicated to producing exceptional hashish and rosin. “Everything you see here is 100% dedicated to hash and rosin,” Peterson said. In this dynamic landscape, it is fascinating to see how the California market has shifted toward using entire crops for rosin production, revealing a new facet of the cannabis industry.

Gina Coleman/Weedmaps

Luma California Farms does not undertake this journey alone. The company partners with trusted brands like Rosin Tech Labs and others in the hashish and rosin industries to develop premium products for the California market. Farmers focus on factors such as yields, terpene profiles, resin behavior and strain selection to be successful in growing solvent-free concentrates.

Among these practices, Peterson highlights the value of companion planting for resin cultivation, explaining, “We like to frequently plant other highly aromatic plants such as dill, cilantro, chives, and similar options. There is evidence that these aromatic companions promote the plant’s ecosystem, encouraging neighboring plants to produce more oil. This approach is particularly common in lavender fields.”

Lemon Limez: The award-winning variety

Peterson’s passion for his craft led to the creation of an exceptional strain called Lemon Limez. It caused a stir at the 2022 Emerald Cup and secured third place. Building on this success, it proudly secured eighth place in 2023. Peterson’s journey with Lemon Limez began in 2017.

Lemon Limez is a strain full of vibrant flavors. It’s a feast for the taste buds with zesty lime notes, a groovy skunk touch and a touch of classic gassiness. These unique and bold flavors make it stand out in the world of hashish and rosin.

WeedmapsLemon Limez Live Rosin Cold Cure Badder from Luma California Farms

Reminiscent of iconic strains such as Sour Diesel and OG Kush, Lemon Limez has distinctive characteristics. It grows tall and stretchy, with widely spaced leaves that optimize light exposure. But what really sets Lemon Limez apart is its resin – often compared to the cannabis equivalent of superglue. “This sticky resin is perfect for producing premium oil and melts and fits the hash-focused atmosphere of the farm,” shared Peterson.

Embracing the future of cannabis cultivation

As the cannabis industry evolves, Luma California Farms remains true to its pursuit of excellence. The farm’s upcoming plans include expanding its acreage and further integrating its operations. Peterson envisions a future in which the farm becomes synonymous with high-quality hash and rosin production, guided by sustainability principles, diversity and a deep connection to the plant.

In a world where cannabis cultivation is often driven by trends, Luma California Farms is a beacon of authenticity. Peterson’s journey from young breeder to visionary farmer has resulted in a cultivation method that not only produces exceptional cannabis, but also fosters a deep connection between the plant, the land and those who share in its magic.