Come On Up, The Air’s Fine
Come On Up, The Air’s Fine
How A High-Altitude Environment Impacts Cannabis
Plants get more than just a great view when sitting on the side of a mountain. The elevation of our farm varies from 3,800 to 4,500 ft., and that altitude transforms both how a plant grows and how we cultivate it. In this environment, plants are challenged by the elements. They must react and grow into the strongest version of themselves. They’re also rewarded for their adaptability.
First off: Being situated on a mountain slope of loamy soil means ideal drainage for great root health. There is an ever-present breeze that keeps the air moving, preventing the growth of molds and bacteria. That breeze can grow into serious winds on occasion, fostering strong roots and stout stalks that can handle those gusts.
The higher you go, the thinner the atmosphere. Our plants experience a higher intensity of sunlight, and more sun = more photosynthesis = more plant growth. They also get cleaner air free from urban pollution.
Up that high, the air pressure is lower, changing the levels of carbon dioxide in the air in a way that can slow down the plant’s transpiration rate—the rate of moisture evaporation from leaves. So, although the air is drier and nights colder, these high-altitude plants don’t need extra water to compensate. This style of terrace farming helps with water retention as well.
Terrace farming is visually stunning, but a lot more work to get going. We had to carve out hillsides to build gardens in a place that many wouldn’t have considered possible. It’s proved very worthwhile, though—both in the quality of our plants and for the crew working with them. When it’s 90 degrees in the valley, it’s 80 degrees up here. Steep mountain farming is also just way more interesting than flat valley farming. The terracing allows for little microzones throughout the farm that make every day unique.
The flora and fauna are totally different as well, with less invasive weed plants and more native plant species and evergreen trees. Plus the occasional bear, cougar, rattlesnake, and friendly bird. Our crew always has stories to share after a day on the farm.