Cannabis cultivation is a fascinating blend of art and science that transforms a simple seed into a thriving plant full of therapeutic compounds.
The journey from seed to harvest is a meticulous process that requires attention to detail, a deep understanding of plant biology and a touch of green thumb magic. Growing cannabis is a labour of love, a dance between the grower and the plant.
This is where it all starts. The mother rooms are by far the most important rooms in our production - and the origin of our medicinal cannabis selections that will later be grown in the grow rooms. The next step is to separate the cuttings from the mother plant and transfer them to the baby room.
In this room, the cuttings are first planted in a small block of rockwool so that they can start rooting as soon as possible. These cuttings are then transferred to the vegetative rooms. It is very important to maintain a high humidity in this room: the seedlings lose water more slowly, are less "stressed" and can concentrate on rooting.
Next, the cuttings are transferred to the vegetative room: since they have already started to form strong roots, they are placed in a large rockwool block while they remain in the small one. In the vegetative room, the cuttings are still very close to each other, but they are not covered with boxes.
This is very beneficial because it creates a microclimate between the plants, which in turn has a positive effect not only on further root formation, but also on the growth of the plants in general. During this phase, the focus is on maximum growth and further root formation. If a plant consists only of stems and leaves (without buds), it is in the vegetative stage.
In this room, the cuttings are first planted in a small block of rockwool so that they can start rooting as soon as possible. These cuttings are then transferred to the vegetative rooms. It is very important that mature and well-rooted cannabis plants begin to produce aromatic flowers, as the name implies.
During this phase, the plants are defoliated two to three times, depending on the specific growth patterns of the side shoots of different strains. Defoliation involves the removal of side shoots from approximately the lower two-thirds of the plant. This process redirects the plant's energy to flower formation, allowing the flowers to receive sufficient light for optimal growth.a high humidity in this space: the seedlings lose water more slowly, are less "stressed" and can concentrate on rooting.
The fully grown cannabis plants, which have already formed voluminous and aromatic flowers, are cut off at the stem and hung upside down on our rolling metal racks as this is the best way to dry them. The metal racks are then rolled into one of our many drying rooms.
At this stage, the flowers are dried in special climatic conditions for approximately 14 days. Using finely tuned sensor technology and a detailed analysis of the moisture content of the flowers in our laboratory, we know exactly when the flowers have reached the perfect moisture level and are ready for the next step - trimming.
Here the flowers are separated from the stem. The buds are removed from all the leaves. This is followed by a thorough quality control: our employees inspect each flower by hand and separate any remaining leaves. A final quality check is then performed by our qualified staff. The entire production is then safely stored.
During our facility cleaning, which takes place two to three days after harvest, all racks, equipment, hoses and walls are carefully cleaned and then disinfected. An analysis of the germ content of the room is then performed to determine the success of the procedure.
Only when the analysis shows that the microbial levels meet our strict requirements does the cycle begin again - and plants from the vegetative stage are placed in the grow room. This is the best way to start the next crop.
At Cannerald, we believe that responsible companies have a duty to play an active role in protecting the environment. We are committed to managing our production processes in a sustainable and environmentally friendly manner.
We purchase all our electricity from completely green and renewable sources - specifically hydroelectric power plants. This choice for sustainable energy not only reduces our carbon footprint, but also makes a tangible contribution to the global fight against climate change.
Our facilities are equipped with an advanced heat recovery system. This innovative facility uses the heat generated by our operations to efficiently heat offices and other areas. Any excess heat can be harnessed, stored and even sold offsite, effectively increasing energy efficiency while minimizing waste.
We leverage the power of Fluence's state-of-the-art LED technology. Compared to traditional HID bulbs, these LEDs offer superior energy efficiency and longer life, reducing waste. Beyond these benefits, LED lights also emit an ideal light spectrum tailored to the needs of the cannabis plant, enhancing its growth and overall productivity.
We use activated carbon filters that effectively eliminate odours and improve air quality in our facilities. At the same time, we prioritize air recycling, reusing most air volumes and introducing only a minimal 10% of fresh air. This dual approach not only reduces our energy consumption, but also ensures a discrete operating environment.
Today, we are on the verge of integrating GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) and GACP (Good Agricultural and Collection Practice) standards. These two sets of regulations will ensure quality, consistency, safety and efficiency in production and require a high level of control and traceability. Particularly in the European Union (EU), they impose strict requirements on the production and collection of medical cannabis.
In all its activities, from security to the overall control and management of our production, Cannerald strictly adheres to the Swiss Confederation's Federal Law on Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances, Narcotics Act, NarcA.
Our efforts to comply with GMP and GACP standards are an integral part of our commitment to "Swiss Made" quality and excellence. It is our promise to our customers that they can rely on the safety, consistency, purity and quality of our products. This reflects our belief that strict adherence to quality standards is the key to producing high quality medicinal cannabis.
