Cultivation and Harvest
Looking for custom farming? Need a farming plan? Educated and experienced harvest services? We offer services from seed propagation through harvest!
Our team understands that not all land, climates, crop and farming operations can be molded into a one size fits all SOP. What might work on the west coast, might not work on the east coast. We work hand in hand with farmers to build customized cultivation and harvest operations that create success in any farming environment.
To learn more about our cultivation and harvest process see below.
Cultivation
Prior to planting, Ag Extracts always does a site assessment at the proposed farm. We take soil and water samples to ensure that the land is conducive to a healthy growing environment. After taking samples, one of Ag Extracts experienced farmers can formulate a plan for the planting process. One major determination is whether we are going to plant seedlings/transplants, or directly sow seeds in the field. Of course, this also depends on timing, the proposed budget, and expectations of the harvest. In order to expedite the growing process, we may be able to use the existing infrastructure, but this is determined on a case by case basis.
For example, if our farming partners are accustomed to planting on 40” or 60” beds and have the equipment in place to support that spacing, then we could build a farming plan that supports such infrastructure. In turn, this will offer cost savings to the farmer and allow for the farmer to feel more comfortable through the growing process.
Harvest
Depending on the end purpose of your harvest, the harvest methodology could vary. For example, harvesting for smokable flower is a different process than harvesting for processing the hemp into CBD, CBG, or other cannabinoids.
Harvest of smokeable flower
Harvesting hemp for premium smokable flower, requires a lot of attention and could be quite laborious. This type of harvesting requires precision, which is done by hand. The reason why it is more of a delicate process is because the quality and presentation is also important.You want the product to look great on the shelf with beautiful trichomes on the bud.
There are several key steps to follow during the harvesting process when it comes to premium flower:
- Choosing the right time to harvest the hemp
- The actual harvest process
- Drying and curing the hemp
- Testing the hemp for compliance purposes. The THC limit should be 0.3% otherwise the plant would be considered “hot.”
Harvest of Biomass
When it comes to harvesting biomass for extraction purposes there are several aspects to consider such as drying, storage, the type of processing equipment being used
The quicker you dry your hemp the less likely chance your crop will grow mold and mildew, which can drastically reduce the quality of your harvest. We take this process very seriously in that our facility is out of direct sunlight, under roof at an ideal temperature and properly ventilated. Some of our grows are in areas where the climate is more favorable and we are able to take advantage of field drying before moving it indoors.
Depending on the size of your harvest, the use of combines could be very efficient. Not only do they cut down on the time, but it could be arguably more cost effective because you can cut down on the number of workers required to harvest manually. Also, the use of combine requires proper conditions during the harvesting process – 50 percent or less humidity, the right temperature – between 60-90 degrees Fahrenheit, and wind consideration- the lighter the better!
To learn more about our services, complete the form below and one of our experienced farmers we be in touch!