The cannabis producers in Portland, Oregon are forced to contend with a wide variety of pests, any one of which might potentially cause catastrophic harm to their crops. Conventional methods of pest management sometimes entail the use of hazardous chemicals, which are dangerous not only to the pests themselves but also to the environment, the plants, and the people who consume cannabis. There is, however, another option available, and that is natural pest management.
A method of controlling pests through the use of natural or organic means is referred to as “natural pest control.” It entails the use of plants, insects, and other naturally occurring predators to regulate the population of unwanted organisms. The following are some of the many reasons why cannabis farmers should seriously consider natural methods of pest control:
Environmental Safety
The fact that natural pest treatment is harmless to the surrounding ecosystem is among the most significant advantages it offers. The use of chemical pesticides has the potential to be hazardous not just to the land, but also to the air, water, and other forms of local species. On the other hand, natural techniques of pest management are not only generally harmless, but they also do not harm the environment. Farmers and the environment both stand to benefit from this circumstance, making it a win-win scenario.
Plants in better health
Making use of natural means of controlling pests can help plants become healthier overall. Chemical pesticides have the potential to cause damage to the plants and diminish their overall health, which may result in lower yields and a lower quality of cannabis. Using natural means of pest control, such as the use of beneficial insects or companion planting, can assist in the maintenance of a healthy balance within the ecosystem, which in turn can lead to healthier plants.
Cost-Effective
Cannabis farmers may find that using natural means to control pests is a more financially viable choice. Chemical pesticides can be quite pricey, particularly when they have to be used frequently. Although natural methods of pest management may demand an initial investment, in the long run, these approaches typically result in lower overall costs. For instance, planting companion plants or making use of insects that are helpful to the ecosystem may call for an initial financial outlay; nevertheless, doing so can assist preserve a healthy balance in the ecosystem and eliminate the requirement for expensive pesticides.
Observance of the Rules and Regulations
The use of pesticides in the growing of cannabis is regulated in a number of nations throughout the world. These restrictions have been put in place to safeguard not just the health of customers but also the health of the environment. Cannabis growers that choose to use natural methods of pest control can find it easier to comply with these rules, as these methods are generally safer and do not cause any damage to the environment.
Product of a Superior Quality
There is a possibility that the quality of cannabis that has been cultivated using just natural techniques to manage pests will be higher. Pesticide residues can be left on cannabis, which can have an impact on both the flavor and the psychoactive properties of the plant. The elimination of potentially dangerous residues during the use of natural techniques of pest management results in an end product of superior quality.
To summarize, using natural methods to control pests is an excellent plan for cannabis farmers. It is not harmful to the environment, it helps plants grow healthier, it is cost-effective, it abides by the regulations, and it may result in a product of higher quality. Cannabis growers may cultivate high-quality cannabis while minimizing their impact on the environment and preserving the wellbeing of their customers when they turn to natural techniques of pest management.
Laura McQueen is a writer for MJGreenNews.com.
She has been writing for different cannabis websites and publications since 2018.
