New Study Explores Impact of Osmotic Stress on Cannabis Yield and Growth

A recent study published in the Journal of Cannabis Research has shed light on the effects of osmotic stress on cannabis plant size and flower yield. The research, conducted on two medical cannabis cultivars, Trump and Cherry, examined how varying levels of salinity influence plant growth and yield. This investigation into precision water stress, or 'crop steering,' aimed to determine the balance between reducing plant height and maintaining flower yield, a crucial factor for commercial cannabis production

The study utilized three experimental groups with six replicate plants each, grown in stone wool blocks to isolate the effects of osmotic stress. The control group was irrigated with a nutrient solution concentration of 4 mS cm−1, while a second group was exposed to a higher osmotic stress level of 8 mS cm−1. A hybrid group received 8 mS cm−1 for the initial four weeks, followed by 4 mS cm−1 for the subsequent four weeks. This strategic watering aimed to assess the impact of osmotic stress during different growth phases, specifically targeting stem growth and flower development

Key findings from the study revealed that while osmotic stress effectively reduced plant height, it also led to a reduction in flower yield. Importantly, the cannabinoid concentration, including CBD and THC levels, remained unaffected across the treatments, suggesting that osmotic stress does not alter the chemical profile of the plants. The research highlights the complexity of managing plant size without compromising yield, underscoring the need for further exploration into genetic tolerance to salinity

The implications of this research are significant for the cannabis industry, particularly for cultivators seeking to optimize plant size and yield. The study suggests that while cannabis plants exhibit a high tolerance to osmotic stress, the challenge lies in achieving height control without sacrificing flower production. These findings could inform future cultivation strategies and breeding programs aimed at enhancing salinity tolerance, especially given the promising yield results observed in the Trump cultivar

Looking ahead, the researchers advocate for additional studies focusing on the timing of osmotic stress applications to refine crop steering techniques. They also emphasize the potential for genetic selection to develop more salinity-tolerant strains, which could revolutionize cannabis cultivation practices. As the industry continues to grow, such research is vital for developing sustainable and efficient production methods that meet the demands of both medical and recreational cannabis markets