Using the cannabis microbiome for sustainable production

Microbes in horticulture are typically something to avoid or eliminate, as pathogens are a significant problem in yield a crop quality. But microbes can also be beneficial, by helping plants access nutrients and preventing pathogen outbreaks. Rather than trying to eliminate all microbes, it may be better to manage naturally occurring, diverse microbial assemblages in the plant and within the production facility. The addition of specific beneficial microbes may also help improve crop performance and help transition facilities to organic production. To do this however, a comprehensive knowledge about the microbes associating with cannabis and its production is needed.

Faculty Supervisor:

Miranda Hart

Student:

Christina Horst

Partner:

DOJA Cannabis Ltd

Discipline:

Biology

Sector:

Agriculture

University:

University of British Columbia Okanagan