Vertical farming has revolutionized the cannabis industry, bringing a slew of benefits that are hard to ignore. Central to this revolution are cannabis grow racks, which enable growers to take advantage of vertical space.
Utilizing cannabis grow racks helps reduce energy consumption, lowering operational costs. These vertical grow rack systems also contribute to reduced water usage, cycle times, and increased yields.
But the process is not without its challenges. Scoring warehouse space can be a hefty investment, and given all the high upfront costs, maximizing every square inch of your grow space is imperative. Utilizing cannabis grow racks ensures that you’re getting the most out of your investment, both in terms of space and financial resources.
Here’s how you can leverage these racks to enhance your cannabis cultivation.
Plan Your Grow Space Layout
Vertical cannabis grow racks, such as those offered by Systems and Space, mark a significant shift from traditional single-tier cultivation methods. In these vertical setups, accessibility is crucial. Integrating ladders or scaffolding can help reach upper tiers, requiring well-thought-out space planning. Another efficient solution is rolling racks, which offer greater flexibility and reduce the need for wide aisles, maximizing the available production area.
The GROW Mobile System by Systems and Space exemplifies this innovation. It’s a vertical, movable, and configurable growing system that effectively minimizes wasted space in both vertical and horizontal dimensions. The system’s stacked shelving provides multiple levels for growing, and its carriage-and-rail mechanism significantly cuts down on unneeded aisle space. This approach optimizes space utilization, enhancing the efficiency and productivity of cannabis cultivation.
Optimize Environmental Controls
Vertical growing presents unique challenges in maintaining optimal environmental conditions. With plants stacked, air circulation becomes limited. Traditional fans might restrict the number of tiers you can have. Precision in heating, cooling and dehumidification systems becomes essential to avoid microclimates, which can lead to pest infestations or disease. Good air distribution at various points in the grow space is crucial to mitigate these risks.
Consider Lighting Proximity
The proximity of lights to the cannabis canopy is critical. LED lights are preferable over High-Pressure Sodium (HPS) lights because they emit less heat and can be placed closer to plants without causing damage. This proximity lighting ensures that each plant receives adequate light, which is essential for optimal growth and yield.
Manage Irrigation Effectively
In vertical farming, irrigation poses a significant challenge. Watering multiple levels can lead to disproportionate water distribution, with lower tiers at risk of overwatering. Proper sizing of irrigation equipment ensures even water distribution across all levels, preventing root rot and plant stress.
Assess Your Equipment
Choosing the right equipment is crucial for successful vertical growth. Ensure your lighting, cooling systems, and irrigation setup are compatible with your cannabis grow racks. The equipment should not only fit within the confines of the racks but also support the health of your plants and maximize space utilization.
Contact Us
To master vertical cannabis farming, the right blend of equipment, grow system, knowledge and practice is essential. Reach out to Systems and Space today, and our professionals will help you customize a grow system that meets your unique needs.
