From small garage grows in the high desert to international retail locations, Mike, one of the founders of Cookies Maywood, has seen firsthand how far cannabis cultivation has come From humble beginnings to international expansion, Mike's journey is a testament to innovation, dedication, and the enduring appeal of quality cannabis.
Cookies Maywood's roots in the cannabis industry run deep. Mike began his cultivation career in his own facilities, working with limited resources and basic equipment. In 2016, he partnered with Berner and Cookies to open the first Cookies retail store in Los Angeles County This marked the birth of Cookies Maywood, the first Cookies retail store.
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Growth and Expansion
Initially, Cookies expanded to multiple retail shops, eventually reaching international markets. Mike ventured into Thailand, navigating the unique challenges of growing in a humid environment compared to the dry conditions of the high desert. Despite these hurdles, he successfully adapted and continued to innovate.
Over the past 20 years, Mike has witnessed significant changes in cultivation techniques. From hand-feeding plants under basic lights to using advanced technology such as sensors and alerts, the evolution has been remarkable. Reflecting on his early days, he recalls starting with just three lights and experimenting with various media, nutrients, and equipment.
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Today, the focus has shifted towards quality. "The entire growth direction has changed," Mike explains. "It's no longer just about higher yields. The culture demands better taste, organic growth, and quality."
Challenges and Innovations
Scaling up operations while maintaining quality has been a significant challenge. "Keeping quality in control while scaling up is crucial," Mike notes. He emphasizes the importance of balancing yield with the demand for high-quality, flavorful products.
Mike's experience with different growing media has been extensive. He has experimented with peat, coco, and Rockwool. Among these, PRO-MIX®, especially PRO-MIX® HP® with Mycorrhizae, has become a staple in his operations. Recently, he introduced PRO-MIX® coco bags, which have proven to be a game-changer for both labor efficiency and plant health.
The introduction of PRO-MIX® coco-based grow bags has streamlined operations significantly. "We've saved a lot of labor," Mike says. "Packing coco, filling pots, and even transplanting has become super easy." The pre-made holes for drip lines and the quick expansion of the media have contributed to faster and more efficient processes.
Genetics and the Market
Genetics play a vital role in Mike's cultivation strategy. Initially, Cookies Maywood gained recognition with strains like London Poundcake 75 and Gary Payton 20. Today, the team continues to hunt for new genetics, catering to both the general market and connoisseurs seeking unique flavors.
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Looking ahead, Mike sees a bright future for the cannabis industry. "The market is moving towards federal legalization," he predicts. He envisions a time when cannabis can be imported and exported globally, enjoyed cleanly and safely anywhere in the world.
Despite changes and challenges, Mike's motivation remains the same: discovery, flavor, and quality. "The joy of discovering new terps and sharing them with others keeps me in the game," he concludes.
For more information:
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Cookies Maywood
maywood.cookies.co