Of all the things that go into a cannabis grow, lighting is certainly one of the most discussed topics. How much light, what kind of light, how the light works, why the light even. The team at Fluence has been laser-focused on scientifically answering all the questions that were once based solely on anecdotal evidence. Dr. Sabrina Carvalho, plant specialist at Fluence, points out how partnerships with research companies like Innexo have proven to be central. "We are always brainstorming new ideas to optimize cannabis cultivation as a whole." For instance, it's known that they have worked on a no-veg strategy, which has yielded exceptional results. At the same time, like all things, there's a time and place for everything. "When it makes sense for a grower, it works. It's not suitable for every strain or end product. Plants tend to be smaller, and so are their flowers. There are some instances where smaller flowers are necessary, or a company just prefers to have them, but if one needs bigger buds, then the plants require a different structure."
Under-canopy
Another trend gaining traction recently is under-canopy lighting, to the point that Dr. Carvalho says many are embracing it. Fluence has been working with inter-canopy lighting for several years, and Dr. Carvalho says they're excited to see the traction UCL is gaining with growers.The company's latest solution is slated to be released by the end of this year. "It's showing very good results. After all, we thoroughly test everything."
As the company motto says, "Led by Science," Dr. Carvalho stresses the extent and thoroughness of the tests Fluence carries out on their lights. "Our network of global research partnerships are proof of that," she remarks. "We not only test lights in-house, but we have trusted, third-party research partners that run extensive commercial trials. Our team is equipped with a wealth of horticulture knowledge, which is essential to support our growers." In other words, Dr. Carvalho points out that Fluence's goal is not only to provide lighting systems but to equip growers with the right tools and knowledge to enjoy their craft and fully express it.
Take the RAPTR light. "We have been validating the RAPTR's spectra for more than five years. We know all the pros and cons. The shape of the fixture itself is also crucial. A specific fixture shape provides a specific spectrum. At the same time, it all comes down to what kind of plant morphology a grower wants to achieve, and the spectrum should be calibrated accordingly." Over time, the company has been improving the RAPTR solution, which now has greater flexibility, wireless control, and advanced optics, if the grower requires it. "That ensures uniform light distribution. At the same time, to drive the cost down, the light also comes without the optics, without sacrificing efficiency."
Inter-canopy
There's still a lot to understand and discover about the dynamics between light and the cannabis plant. New solutions and strategies are constantly being studied, and something new may emerge at any moment. Just to name one, inter-canopy lighting is another technique that Fluence and its research partners are working on. Taken directly from tomato cultivation, this lighting strategy is showing a lot of promise. Dr. Carvalho emphasizes that it's crucial to find new ways to help growers improve their crops while simultaneously lowering operational costs and lighting can be one of the major keys to achieving that enhanced efficiency. This research is a testament to the cannabis industry fully embracing its horticultural roots, a shift in discourse that could also be seen at GreenTech, an international horticulture trade show in Amsterdam. "There were a lot of cannabis growers walking by, not necessarily looking for ways to improve cultivation, but to improve their operation as a whole. Automation, conveyors, screens, all those things that normally go into your standard tomato greenhouse are now being looked at with interest by many cannabis growers as well. This is a sign that the entire horticulture industry is coming together, something that bodes really well for the future of cannabis."
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