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Tips for labor saving in commercial cannabis cultivation: Crop Rotation

Labor shortages are becoming a significant challenge in the horticultural sector, particularly in cannabis cultivation. With the growing scarcity of skilled workers and rising minimum wages, managing labor costs has become increasingly complex. Fortunately, advancements in horticultural mechanization offer effective solutions. In this article, we explore strategies for saving labor in commercial cannabis cultivation, focusing on the benefits of crop rotation and automation.
DryGair cannabis cultivation
Jim Pryor 
Account manager Royal Brinkman UK | July 18, 2021 | 2 min. reading time

Automation of repetitive operations

Automating certain tasks can significantly lower production costs by enhancing efficiency and product quality. While the initial investment in automation may be higher, the long-term savings on labor costs are substantial. Automation reduces the reliance on manual labor, minimizes workplace hazards, and allows employees to focus on tasks that require a human touch. So, which operations can you automate for labor savings?

Crop rotation

Crop rotation can be a hectic time, involving numerous tasks such as harvesting, transporting crops, trimming flowers, and cleaning/disinfecting the greenhouse. By utilizing various machines to automate these processes, you can reduce your dependence on human labor, improve efficiency, and ultimately save money.
 

Internal transport 

Modern cannabis facilities often include multiple zones for propagation, vegetative growth, flowering, and processing. Efficient and safe transport of products between these areas is crucial for seamless operations. Cultivators should invest in purpose-fit equipment to minimize physical strain on employees and accelerate turnaround times, enhancing overall productivity.

Trimming 

Today's cannabis trimming machines have evolved significantly, overcoming the limitations of earlier models that often produced subpar trims and damaged flowers. Modern commercial trimmers offer consistent cuts, improved reliability, and compliance with regulatory standards. Moreover, manufacturers are increasingly focusing on integrating trimming equipment, such as buckers, conveyors, and kief collectors, to create a streamlined and efficient trimming process.
trimming machine
 
trimming machine 2

Cleaning and disinfection

Maintaining a clean and sanitized facility is essential for regulatory compliance and successful crop production. However, thorough cleaning and disinfection can be time-consuming, leaving plants vulnerable during downtime. Automating these processes can save valuable time and resources. For example, automated roof washers can effectively clean both the interior and exterior of glasshouses, even applying chalk-based shading paint. Additionally, automated spray robots can disinfect greenhouses using a pipe rail system, requiring minimal oversight.
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Tips for labor saving in commercial cannabis cultivation: Crop Rotation

Labor shortages are becoming a significant challenge in the horticultural sector, particularly in cannabis cultivation. With the growing scarcity of skilled workers and rising minimum wages, managing labor costs has become increasingly complex. Fortunately, advancements in horticultural mechanization offer effective solutions. In this article, we explore strategies for saving labor in commercial cannabis cultivation, focusing on the benefits of crop rotation and automation.
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Jim Pryor
Jim Pryor 
Account manager Royal Brinkman UK | July 18, 2021 | 3 min. reading time
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DryGair cannabis cultivation

Topics in this article:

Automation of repetitive operations

Automating certain tasks can significantly lower production costs by enhancing efficiency and product quality. While the initial investment in automation may be higher, the long-term savings on labor costs are substantial. Automation reduces the reliance on manual labor, minimizes workplace hazards, and allows employees to focus on tasks that require a human touch. So, which operations can you automate for labor savings?

Crop rotation

Crop rotation can be a hectic time, involving numerous tasks such as harvesting, transporting crops, trimming flowers, and cleaning/disinfecting the greenhouse. By utilizing various machines to automate these processes, you can reduce your dependence on human labor, improve efficiency, and ultimately save money.
 

Internal transport 

Modern cannabis facilities often include multiple zones for propagation, vegetative growth, flowering, and processing. Efficient and safe transport of products between these areas is crucial for seamless operations. Cultivators should invest in purpose-fit equipment to minimize physical strain on employees and accelerate turnaround times, enhancing overall productivity.

Trimming 

Today's cannabis trimming machines have evolved significantly, overcoming the limitations of earlier models that often produced subpar trims and damaged flowers. Modern commercial trimmers offer consistent cuts, improved reliability, and compliance with regulatory standards. Moreover, manufacturers are increasingly focusing on integrating trimming equipment, such as buckers, conveyors, and kief collectors, to create a streamlined and efficient trimming process.
trimming machine
 
trimming machine 2

Cleaning and disinfection

Maintaining a clean and sanitized facility is essential for regulatory compliance and successful crop production. However, thorough cleaning and disinfection can be time-consuming, leaving plants vulnerable during downtime. Automating these processes can save valuable time and resources. For example, automated roof washers can effectively clean both the interior and exterior of glasshouses, even applying chalk-based shading paint. Additionally, automated spray robots can disinfect greenhouses using a pipe rail system, requiring minimal oversight.
Contact form
Do not hesitate to ask your questions to our specialist using the form. We will respond to your questions as soon as possible.
Jim Pyor
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