Growing cannabis requires a thorough understanding of the substrates and materials used to promote optimal plant growth. Among these materials, rockwool stands out for its versatility and advantageous properties. In this article, we’ll delve into the details of rockwool manufacturing, its application in cannabis cultivation, and specific methods for optimizing results during germination, propagation, and cultivation.
How is rockwool made? Before manufacturing rockwool, a whole process must be followed. The technique used is quite complex: volcano simulation.
This method involves producing intense heat that mimics volcanic conditions, transforming rock into liquid lava. This liquid lava is the starting point for manufacturing the rockwool.
To create these fibers, an organic binder is added to the liquid lava. Through mechanical processes based on centrifugal force, the liquid lava is transformed into a fibrous structure. This fiber bundle can be adjusted in terms of compression to meet various needs:
thermal insulation, acoustic insulation, fire protection, or even agricultural use.
Stabilizing Rock Wool for Cultivation Before becoming an ideal substrate for growing cannabis, this substance requires careful preparation. Initially, it has a high alkaline pH, close to 7.
Before introducing the plants, the rock wool slabs are soaked in a nutrient solution with a pH adjusted to 4.5 and an electrical conductivity (EC) of 0.5 to 0.6.This step is crucial for creating an environment conducive to plant growth. Germinating Cannabis in Rock Wool
To germinate cannabis seeds, the rock wool cubes are used.
They must be prepared with the utmost care. After being placed between damp towels to maintain humidity, the seeds begin to germinate. Once the roots are well established, the germinated seeds appear in the rockwool cubes. This transition requires delicate handling to avoid damaging the developing roots. What are the specific methods for optimizing germination results? The specific methods for optimizing germination results are:
Cuttings; Rockwool culture; Recycling; Cuttings Cuttings are a method that allows you to follow a process similar to other cloning methods. The cut branches are carefully inserted into rockwool cubes whose pH has been previously adjusted.
Meticulous humidity management is a key element for successful cuttings.
Rockwool culture
Rockwool provides an ideal environment for growing cannabis plants from seed. To maintain an optimal pH, an automatic irrigation system can be used to ensure regular watering. Recycling is a crucial technique for reducing waste, as rock wool is not a biodegradable material. Improved recycling systems allow rock wool to be transformed into new reusable materials, minimizing environmental impact.
