Why Do You Blackout Cannabis
When it comes to raising plants, all greenhouse cultivators have a few common needs-greenhouses, water, temperature control, and space! By design, greenhouses take advantage of sunlight to provide the necessary light cycles for plants to grow correctly. When it comes to growing cannabis, there's an added twist. While most plants enjoy extended periods of light, cannabis is not one of them. Short days are a necessity for raising cannabis effectively. To achieve this, we must implement ways to block out light, otherwise known as blacking out.
What do we mean by "blackout"?
Blackout systems are a way for growers to achieve the optimal cannabis growing conditions. Those conditions are based upon the 12/12 photoperiod method, which provides 12 hours of light and 12 hours of darkness. This method helps induce the flowering of plants outside of their typical flowering period. Thus, giving growers much more control over their crops and the added benefit of growing cannabis year-round. In addition, the ability to allow the plants to grow a few more weeks can yield significant crop increases and help produce more potent cannabis.
Fewer Energy Costs
There is an added benefit of blackout systems, and that is lower energy costs. Greenhouse owners in general already take advantage of energy by harnessing the sun's power during spring, summer, and fall. However, the winter months are where it can get tricky and quickly eat a hole in your pocket. The cold months of winter require a heating source, and that costs money. Due to the materials, they are made of, blackout systems can act as a thermal blanket, helping to keep heat inside the greenhouse, thus lowering your heating costs.
How to implement a blackout system
There are a few methods of achieving a blackout system. At Dellinger Horticulture, we use white and black poly material to completely blackout the crops inside the greenhouse. We start by going over and around the greenhouse with white poly. This material helps to reflect the sunlight and keep the plants cool. Black poly is then installed inside the greenhouse. Black poly on the inside helps to absorb any light. This method helps maintain the 12/12 photoperiod, establishing the ideal conditions to grow cannabis.
Things to know
Blackout systems can quickly become an expensive endeavor, especially when installed in a rush or incorrectly. DIY blackout systems can become a nightmare. As the saying goes, "Some things are better left to the pros." Choosing the right blackout system for your needs is essential. Having professionals on your side can help give the guidance and expertise needed to make the right decisions for your business. Dellinger Horticulture is a full-service greenhouse construction company that specializes in the cannabis industry. Give us a call. We're ready to work with you.