Professional Marijuana Grower November-December 2018 Issue

of tiny strands of fungi called “hyphae”. This net-like structure dramatically increases the overall size and mass of the root system and helps the plant obtain more nutrients. The plant and fungi exist together in a mutual- ly beneficial relationship. The plant receives elemental nutrients that it may not have been able to absorb on its own. The Mycorrhizae fungi receive food in the form of sugars from the roots. Mycorrhizae fungi are plant species sensitive and not all species of the fungi will form this beneficial relationship with all types of plants. The Mycorrhizae species Glomus intaradices is most beneficial to cannabis plants, and inoculants containing this single specie alone are recommended. Most beneficial microorganism supplements are water soluble and some come mixed with a colloidal-type in- gredient, such as clay, that helps them stick to the roots. Both inoculants can be either applied directly to the roots or mixed with water and applied. When mixed with water the roots can be soaked briefly in the solu- tion or watered in with it after they are transplanted. To transplant, fill the container nearly to the top and make a hole big enough for the roots to fit comfortably. When placing the seedling or clone into the hole be careful not to disturb and injure the roots. After the plant is placed in the hole spread the potting mix around the base of the plant and add, if needed, enough extra pot- ting mix to cover the base of the plant by two or three inches. Water lightly with the microorganism solution and then place the container underneath the lights. The environment within the greenhouse structure will need to be properly maintained and controlled for max- imum growth potential. Temperature might be the most important aspect, specifically during night time and early morning hours. Never let the temperature drop below 60 degrees F because it leads directly to slow- er root growth. Day time temperatures should not be allowed to reach 90 degrees F with a temperature of 75-80 degrees F being optimum. Since the plants will be placed into the greenhouse structure in early April, day time temperatures will likely not be an issue unless it is an unseasonably warm, early spring. If tempera- tures begin to rise, provide adequate ventilation and air flow or even consider utilizing a shade cloth on top of the structure. In April, night time temperatures will likely dip into the cold range so supplemental heating may be required. For larger greenhouses, a propane or natural gas heater, depending on location and availability, will be sufficient, and for smaller structures electric heaters are an option. Supplement lighting with t5 or t8 fluorescent lights, us- ing as many as needed to ensure even distribution over Water thoroughly and immediately after transplanting. Apply beneficial microorganisms to help alleviate any stress that the plant may have experienced. November/December 2018 Professional Marijuana Grower • 49

Professional Marijuana Grower November-December 2018 Issue | Page 49