Horticulture

This course explores strategies for launching and sustaining a commercial cannabis cultivation space. We provide an overview of cannabis plant science and agronomy, examine the pros and cons of current commercial cultivation methodologies, and demonstrate techniques for successful operation. We also highlight the impacts of stringent regulatory compliance requirements and discuss trends in the consumer market.

We begin with the foundations of cannabis, including the history of humans’ interaction with the plant and the policies which govern its production and use. We also review the efforts of advocacy pioneers who fought for the right to access medical cannabis and learn how we can continue that tradition in our personal and professional lives. 

From there, we walk through the plant’s entire life cycle, from propagation to harvest, and present basic cultivation techniques for each growth stage. This introduction provides the basis for a deeper dive into the science of cultivation, where we explore the anatomy and physiology of the plant, plant nutrition, and factors that can limit photosynthesis. We present general strategies for optimizing conditions and increasing yield.