AROYA Office Hours LIVE

In episode 140, hosts Cian Sullivan and Jason Van Leuven, Director of Applied Technology at AROYA, are joined by special guest Jonah Carrington, Director of Genetics and R&D for Cookies Humboldt and One Log.

Jonah takes us behind the scenes at one of the most diverse and innovative operations in the country, sharing the journey from humble beginnings to building a state-of-the-art genetic hub that drives Cookies' nationwide expansion. From construction and operational challenges in rural Humboldt to the technical nuances of genetic preservation, R&D, and adapting to changing industry demands, Jonah gives an honest look...

Welcome back, Gromies, to another episode of AROYA Office Hours LIVE! In episode 139, your host Cian is joined by Jason Van Leuven, Director of Applied Technology, and special guest Liam Spencer, an AROYA sales rep with deep roots in commercial cultivation and horticulture. This week, we're switching things up by diving headfirst into burning questions from the community about real-world cultivation challenges—no guest interview, just a roundtable packed with insights straight from the front lines.

Liam brings a unique dual perspective: not only is he helping growers solve problems daily, but he's also a seasoned cultivator hi...

In this episode, host Cian is joined by Director of Applied Technology Jason Van Leuven for a look into the world of cultivation, featuring special guests Tyler Snell and Adam Redding from Certified Cultivators in Ohio. Certified Cultivators stands out as a third-generation family business that impressively transformed an auto parts facility into a cutting-edge cultivation and processing operation.

In this conversation, Tyler and Adam share their remarkable journey from grassroots growing to managing a thriving commercial-scale operation. They discuss their hands-on experiences, the importance of teamwork, and how building a positive, trust-driven company culture has been...

In episode 137, we bring you something truly special as we kick off "Powr Talk," a new reality mini-series where real commercial cultivators make data-driven, in-the-moment decisions—no scripts, no sets, just the authentic, behind-the-scenes life inside a working grow.

This week, hosts Cian and Jason are joined by Kevin Crouch and Sergio Picazo from Sacramento's legendary Powrhouse team. Together, they pull back the curtain on Powrhouse's innovative approach to commercial cultivation: a collaborative retrofit project centered around boosting plant health, maximizing yields, and scaling quality through a synganic cultivation strategy.

Tune in for a no-holds-barred co...

In this week’s episode, host Cian and resident expert Jason are joined by Anders Peterson, Director of Horticulture at PIPP Horticulture. If you’ve ever marveled at wall-to-wall multi-tier canopies in a grow room, chances are PIPP had a hand in it—and Anders has been at the center of that evolution.

Anders kicks things off by sharing his journey, from his early days in the Bay Area working with Prop 215 growers and running his own facilities, to his transition into high-tech vertical cultivation design across the globe. 

Together, the trio explore the state of the...

Welcome to Episode 135 of Office Hours LIVE, where cultivation knowledge meets practical application! 

Today, we're exploring the critical relationship between environment and irrigation for superior plant development. Host Cian is joined by cultivation experts Jason and Seth, ready to tackle your most challenging questions in real time.

On today's agenda: mastering optimal dryback rates, comparing stakes versus sprayers for irrigation efficiency, conquering VPD management challenges, and maximizing your existing equipment's potential. 

We'll also examine media selection strategies and reveal how the precise balance of temperature and humidity can dramatically enhance your harvest quality.

This episode explores the science and engineering behind optimal climate control for indoor plant cultivation. We're joined by special guest Willy Stober from Stober Engineering, alongside our expert hosts Cian, Jason, and Seth.

Willy shares exclusive insights from his groundbreaking PG&E-funded research study examining energy consumption patterns and thermal load management in controlled environment agriculture. His work has revolutionized our understanding of how environmental factors impact plant development in indoor growing facilities.

Episode Highlights:

- Climate Control Optimization: Discover cutting-edge techniques for maintaining ideal temperature, humidity, and air circulation to maximize crop...

In this episode, our resident experts, Cian and Jason, explore common cultivation challenges, offering insights and strategies to enhance your grow operations. From debating vegging in place versus dedicated veg rooms to exploring solutions for persistent pest issues like thrips, they cover a wide range of topics crucial for cultivators. 

They also discuss efficient methods for resetting grow rooms, share techniques for optimal cloning, and address the impact of stressors on plant health. 

Whether you're facing challenges with plant seeding or looking to optimize your cloning process, this episode is packed with expert advice and pr...

Welcome to another episode of Office Hours LIVE, where we explore the intricate world of commercial horticulture. 

In today's episode, host Cian and expert Seth Baumgartner navigate the complexities of substrate EC, irrigation strategies, and the optimization of growing conditions under various lighting environments. 

The duo discusses the importance of understanding your market, making responsible business decisions, and investing in key cultivation areas to remain competitive in a fluctuating industry. 

They also touch on plant breeding and phenotype selection challenges, offering actionable advice for novice and seasoned growers. 

00:00 Enhanced Accuracy of TERO...

Welcome to another episode of Office Hours LIVE, AROYA's podcast dedicated to exploring the intricate world of cultivation. 

In episode 131, join our host Cian, alongside cultivation experts Jason and Seth, as they dive into the complexities of environmental conditions and their impact on plant growth. 

From the effects of substrate EC levels and CO2 on plant health to the potential benefits and considerations of under-canopy lighting, this episode provides valuable insights for growers looking to optimize their production. 

The team also touches on the significance of crop registration and the role of technology lik...

Welcome to another episode of Office Hours LIVE. This is episode 130. Join our resident experts Seth and Jason as they unravel the complexities of managing light and nutrient dynamics to optimize plant growth. 

This week, we're tackling a question from our audience: Does higher PPFD and DLI require higher EC, and how should you adjust your nutrient strategy accordingly? 

We explore the intricate balance between light levels, nutrient uptake, and plant health, offering insights drawn from both scientific principles and practical cultivation experiences. 

Don't forget to engage with us on YouTube and Instagram and...

Hello and welcome back to another episode of AROYA Office Hours LIVE Episode 128, your go-to source for cultivation education! I'm your host, Kaisha, and we are thrilled to reach episode 128. Today, we have an engaging discussion lined up with experts Jason, Seth, and special guest Cian.

This episode is packed with valuable insights directly from our live audience's questions. We start by diving deep into a question on the complexities of fertigation schedules and dryback percentages for newly transplanted clones. 

From there, we touch on volumetric water content raised by the community and discuss the i...

Hello and welcome back to another episode of AROYA Office Hours LIVE Episode 128, your go-to source for cultivation education! I'm your host, Kaisha, and we are thrilled to reach episode 128. Today, we have an engaging discussion lined up with experts Jason, Seth, and special guest Cian.

This episode is packed with valuable insights directly from our live audience's questions. We start by diving deep into a question on the complexities of fertigation schedules and dryback percentages for newly transplanted clones. 

From there, we touch on volumetric water content raised by the community and discuss the i...

In today's session, we answer pressing questions from our dedicated community. Our experts, Jason and Cian, alongside our ever-engaging host, Kaisha, tackle a variety of topics—from managing PH runoff and exploring the best irrigation strategies to understanding the complexities of canopy uniformity and the science behind optimal VPD levels.

We kick things off by addressing Billy's detailed inquiry about dealing with PH levels during the mid-flower stage and the potential solutions, including adjusting EC levels and irrigation tactics. We then transition to insightful discussions on sensor placement accuracy, optimal moisture contents for drying and curing, and ho...

In Episode 126, we're thrilled to kick off the new year with our special guest, Mike Strupp, co-founder of Wood Wide High Craft, joining hosts Kaisha, Seth, Jason, and Cian.

In this episode, we explore groundbreaking discoveries in modern research, including unique strain traits and optimal growing techniques. We uncover the challenges that come with scaling a cannabis business, maintaining quality, and the strategic importance of branding. Additionally, we tackle common cultivation hurdles like pH fluctuations in rock wool and the persistent threat of powdery mildew, offering expert solutions to manage these effectively.

Mike shares his...

Welcome to the 125th episode of AROYA Office Hours LIVE.

Today, our hosts Jason, Seth, and Cian, explore a range of topics, from the rising popularity of Z Terps, particularly Z Skittles, to the benefits and challenges of growing these finicky strains. We'll discuss regional trends, market fluctuations, and the strategies that savvy growers use to stay ahead.

Plus, essential techniques like under canopy lighting, crop evaluation, irrigation strategies, and canopy management. Our experts share practical insights on record-keeping, adjusting crop techniques, and leveraging technological aids to optimize growth. We'll also tackle issues like managing...

In this episode, our experts, Seth, Jason, and Cian unpack the 50% dryback strategy, answer your questions about runoff expectations, and explore the impact of irrigation techniques on plant metabolism. 

We'll also shine a light on how media size, field capacity, and saturation levels can influence successful plant growth and discuss the challenges growers face when using different terminologies and measurements.

Plus, highlight the critical role of sensors in accurate water content measurement, the benefits of numerical data for consistent plant care, and the intricacies of nutrient delivery systems. Plus, we'll delve into the nuances of d...

Welcome to Episode 123 of AROYA Office Hours LIVE! 

I'm Kaisha, your host, joined by co-host Cian and our cultivation experts Jason and Seth. 

Today, we'll look into the intricacies of water management in cultivation, focusing on rockwool media, proper sensor placement, and effective irrigation strategies to prevent plant stress and wilting. 

We'll also explore how these practices impact yield and quality, and share tips on optimizing pot sizes, using data logging for accurate monitoring, and maintaining clean water systems to prevent issues like algae growth.

We've got insightful advice responding to que...

Welcome to episode 122 of Office Hours LIVE, brought to you by AROYA. 

Hosts Jason, Cian, and Kaisha explore plant cultivation with expert insights. We cover vital aspects of plant growth and environmental control, focusing on nutrient balance, pH levels, and the critical role of Vapor Pressure Deficit (VPD) during flowering stages. 

Jason shares his experience from various growing facilities, offers practical tips on managing low pH, and introduces valuable tools like the VPD calculator and the updated dryback tool for optimizing plant health. 

We also touch on the holistic approach to growing, including eng...

In this episode, Cian provides valuable insights into plant care, highlighting the importance of stem and root examinations to prevent issues like crown rot and root contamination. We also explore medium-specific concerns, including pH issues in rockwool and coco.

Our discussion emphasizes the role of Vapor Pressure Deficit (VPD) in maintaining plant health, and we provide practical guidance on balancing temperature and humidity to optimize yield. We touch on the significance of proactive pest management and biosecurity measures to safeguard your crops. 

Alongside listener Q&A, we address topics ranging from CO2 levels and light i...

In Episode 120, Kaisha, Seth, Jason, and Cian discuss advanced cultivation techniques and the latest industry trends. We explore the intricate details of lighting, from far-red light and its impact on phytochromes to the benefits of transitioning from HPS to LED systems. 

Seth and Jason tackle the complexities of managing irrigation strategies, balancing generative and vegetative growth, and the critical importance of data in optimizing cultivation practices.

We discuss everything from flower formation and environmental control to the nuances of growing in coco versus soil. Learn about the challenges small businesses face in balancing interesting plant v...

In today's installment, Kaisha, Cian, and Jason explore the intricate world of cultivation. We tackle various pressing issues that both novice and seasoned growers face. From media size and defoliation techniques to managing nutrient feeds and understanding the importance of substrate size and oxygenation, this discussion promises to offer invaluable insights.

Jason also sheds light on the industry's shift towards alternative nutrients for cleaner produce and better ripening, emphasizing the balanced use of Vapor Pressure Deficit (VPD), pH levels, and substrate wetting practices. 

Listeners can expect a thorough discussion on lighting strategies, the role of C...

Welcome to Episode 118 of AROYA Office Hours LIVE! 

In this episode, hosts Rachel, Cian, and Jason talk about various aspects of cultivation. From managing humidity and preventing mold growth to optimizing lighting and controlling plant height, we cover a wide range of topics that are crucial for every grower. 

We explore the best practices for maintaining ideal conditions during the vegetation phase, address common concerns like necrosis and nutrient deficiencies, and discuss innovative technologies like TEROS sensors for better monitoring. 

Jason shares insights on improving plant aroma, selective seed breeding, and ensuring consistency in...

Today, Rachel steps in as moderator while Kaisha enjoys a well-deserved vacation. Blending scientific insights with practical advice, our dynamic hosts Jason, Seth, and Cian talk about optimizing plant growth, especially under evolving cultivation conditions. 

Join us as Cian, part of AROYA's agronomic client success team, shares his experiences with monitoring multiple cultivars and optimizing irrigation strategies using detailed dashboard data. 

We discuss the importance of understanding the microclimate's impact on plant behavior and the essential role of sensors in identifying potential issues like clogged emitters. 

The episode also explores effective strategies for env...

In today's episode, we explore several critical aspects of growing—from morning watering strategies and balancing irrigation patterns, to the science of developing new strains and the importance of documentation in crop registration. 

We'll also tackle your questions about managing substrate EC, transitioning plants from vegging to flowering, and effectively using advanced control technologies like PID systems for optimal environmental management. 

We cover practical advice on maintaining ideal water content and nutrient levels, as well as the latest advancements in LED lighting technology. 

Tune in and don't forget to subscribe and leave us a rev...

In this episode, our host Jason takes the reins solo as we explore the latest irrigation approaches, adjustment strategies, and the vital generative versus vegetative phases in plant growth. 

You'll get an in-depth introduction to the FREE AROYA Irrigation Calculator, a powerful tool designed to streamline your irrigation planning. We’ll discuss the nuances of managing irrigation in various substrates like rockwool and coco, and answer community questions around calculating runoff, rooting indicators, and managing pH levels. 

We'll also touch on practical advice for ensuring uniform plant growth, optimizing nutrient use, and setting up effective stan...

In this episode, hosts Jason, Seth, and Kaisha talk about the intricacies of optimizing irrigation strategies, the nuances of managing pH and nutrient levels, and the importance of precision in commercial plant production. 

Seth discusses the significance of monitoring dryback in the early stages of growth, Jason explains the minimal impact of volumetric water content in hydroponic media, and Kaisha shares insightful poll results from various facility types.

Together, they tackle your burning questions on topics ranging from adding mycorrhizae to media and using air pumps in nutrient reservoirs, to troubleshooting pH fluctuations and managing V...

On this week's show, your hosts Jason, Kaisha, and Seth talk about the nuances of cultivation, with a spotlight on optimizing plant nutrition and environmental control. 

Episode 113 covers a wide array of critical topics, including the use of molasses in living soil systems, the challenges of using it in hydroponics, and the ideal range for BPD (leaf vapor pressure deficit) swings to prevent mold and pathogen issues. 

Plus, the importance of maintaining humidity levels and temperature to foster healthy plant growth, and the potential effects of transitioning light sources on plant morphology. 

The tea...

Welcome to Episode 112 of AROYA Office Hours LIVE! 

In this episode, hosts Kaisha and Seth cover the intricacies of cultivation. And they tackle questions from our audience, providing expert insights on maintaining root temperatures using drip feed systems and rockwool unislabs paired with LED lights. 

Seth shares valuable tips on room control, airflow, and the importance of biosecurity protocols, including using hypochlorous acid for sanitation. 

Plus, reservoir aeration, the impact of water temperature on dissolved oxygen, and the challenges of managing EC levels in flood and drain systems. 

Seth talks about pot...

In Episode 111, your hosts Kaisha and Jason are thrilled to welcome the Class of 2024 from Cookies U, an innovative program dedicated to providing hands-on, science-based education for its students. 

This incredible initiative focuses on social equity, offering opportunities for underrepresented individuals to gain industry knowledge while receiving comprehensive support, including financial assistance and access to expert guidance.

Joining us today are guests Yancy, Jillian, Sydney, Vicky, and Brian, who share their transformative experiences with the program. 

They praise the program for its life-changing impact and the wealth of practical skills and networking opportunities it...

In today's info-packed episode, we're talking how to optimize your grow environment to maximize plant health and yields. Jason shares tips for mitigating mold and mildew issues by dialing in your VPD, utilizing silica additives and foliar sprays, and understanding strain-specific growth factors. 

We also explore advanced techniques like using monopotassium phosphate to accelerate flowering times, gradually lowering light and CO2 levels late in flowering to reduce excess sugars, and the pros and cons of under-canopy lighting.

Lighting is a hot topic, as we field questions about dimming LEDs through the growth cycle, matching PAR r...

Join hosts Seth, Jason, and Kaisha as they explore plant health, specifically focusing on water uptake, nutrient levels, and the impact of different growing mediums like Promix, coco, and rockwool. 

Discover how rapid changes in electrical conductivity (EC) can lead to leaf edge necrosis and tip burn, particularly in the late flower stage, and explore the trade-offs between plant health, energy input, and crop yield.

They respond to audience questions on everything from osmotic pressure and re-vegetation due to light schedule mistakes to the optimal day and night temperature and VPD targets. They'll offer actionable a...

Welcome back to another episode of AROYA Office Hours LIVE! In this packed 108th episode, your hosts Seth, Kaisha, and Jason dive deep into the science and techniques behind optimal cultivation. From understanding the crucial role of water content in plant substrates to managing substrate EC and pH, the team breaks down the complexities of maintaining plant health on a large scale. 

Tune in as Seth shares invaluable insights on the impact of environmental factors on botrytis growth and the diversified world of genetics. Jason and Seth also discuss key strategies for effective irrigation and root health, e...

Welcome to Episode 107 of AROYA Office Hours LIVE, your go-to source for cultivation education! Hosted by Jason and Kaisha, this episode dives deep into essential cultivation techniques and strategies to help you optimize your grow. 

We'll cover everything from efficient leaf removal methods to maintaining optimal light intensity during the transition from veg to flower. Along the way, we'll explore the impact of airflow on plant health, the relationship between light levels, temperature, and photosynthesis, and the nuances of proper irrigation and substrate management. 

Plus, we'll tackle live viewer questions about reducing airflow at night, ma...

In Episode 106, we're diving into the nuanced world of cultivation, exploring everything from low-stress training techniques to the intricacies of managing commercial grow operations. 

We unpack the challenges of reducing vegetative time, the importance of root zone monitoring, and the balancing act required to maintain optimal Electrical Conductivity (EC) levels in your plants. 

Seth shares his expertise on the impact of genetic variability in strains, the benefits of using advanced sensor technology, and offers strategic advice on strain selection and cultivation. 

We also discuss the critical role of nutrient and pH management in ach...

Hosts Seth, Jordan Zager, Kaisha, and Jason explore the strategic pheno hunts conducted each winter, examining around 5000 seeds to find the best plants for production. We discuss the importance of balancing production schedules, resources, and the need for advanced greenhouse space in genetic breeding.

Plus, optimizing cultivation techniques, managing environmental challenges, and ensuring genetic stability. 

Jordan Zager, a biochemist and founder of Dewey Scientific, offers a peek into the company’s groundbreaking work on powdery mildew resistance and the significance of genetic research in shaping the future of cultivation.

We’ll also dive into...

In this episode, we're diving into the intricacies of cultivation, offering expert insights that can help you optimize your grow. 

We'll tackle the challenges of hand watering and the benefits of automated irrigation systems, and explore the nuances of CO2 supplementation and temperature control for different lighting setups. 

Plus, we'll discuss the importance of substrate size, pH levels, and nutrient management, and share tips for enhancing plant growth through training techniques and lighting manipulation. 

Whether you're a seasoned grower or just starting out, this episode is packed with valuable information to help you man...

In this episode, hosts Kaisha, Seth, Jason are joined by guest Rachel to delve into the intricate world of cultivation. 

From the transition from HPS to LED lighting to the importance of monitoring plant water consumption, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical tips. 

Join the discussion on optimizing plant growth, adjusting feeding strategies, and the debate on pot choices for root growth. Stay tuned as the hosts answer viewer questions and share their expertise on maximizing plant health and quality. Let's dive into the world of cultivation education with AROYA Office Hours LI...

Welcome back to another insightful episode of Office Hours LIVE! In Episode 102, your hosts Jason and Kaisha dive deep into the intricacies of cultivation. 

Jason suggests ways to use crop registration information to compare suffering and healthy plants and shares tips on managing water content and trichome production for optimized terpene profiles. We’ll explore everything from CO2 supplementation throughout the flowering harvest to the importance of monitoring EC and pH levels in runoff for balanced nutrient uptake.

Our discussion touches on various advanced cultivation techniques, including drought stressing, using enzymes for better nutrient absorption, and...

Welcome to Episode 101 of Office Hours LIVE! Today, your hosts Seth and Kaisha dive deep into the essentials of cultivation, focusing on the critical aspects of water activity measurement, media selection, and plant care. 

Seth brings his expertise to the forefront, discussing the prevention of common issues such as mold and bud rot by carefully managing drying processes and environmental conditions. 

Kaisha addresses your burning questions live, ranging from handling low pH levels in runoff during the mid-flower stage to optimizing your grow with the right media and nutrition strategies. 

Whether you're battling ove...