Wavelengths of light that drive photosynthesis are primarily found within the 400 – 700nm range. Within a plant leaf are various pigments and photoreceptors that respond to different wavelengths of PAR. These pigments and photoreceptors perceive the intensity of photons that are absorbed, which impacts the rate of photosynthesis and overall plant growth.
Pistil
In the structure of the female cannabis plant, the pistils are the reproductive organ. The pistils are often confused with stigmas. However, the pistils are the part of the cannabis plant from which the stigmas grow. The pistil is the part where the pollen from the male plant is collected. The pistils have three parts: the stigma, ovary, and style. Over time, the appearance of the pistils and their parts can change colors as the cannabis plant grows.
Plant Biologically Active Radiation (PBAR)
While not used for photosynthesis, ultraviolet (UV) and infrared (IR) wavelengths of light energy are involved in photobiological reactions in plants, meaning they are essential in plant growth. More advanced growers should know their lights’ UV and IR output. Where PAR covers 400nm-700nm, the visible light spectrum used for photosynthesis, PBAR covers 300nm-800nm, which includes both UV and IR wavelengths. More and more research has been coming out on the benefits of using supplemental UV for increased resin production. Most growers know that red light is needed for a good flowering response. Light in the far red range increases photochromic responses and is involved in flowering. Many studies show that when plants get 660-680, deep red, and 680-730, far red, they show an increased flower production. Manufacturers have responded to the research, and we are starting to see more and more lights including these UV and IR enhancements, as well as specialty lights such as horticultural UV, grow light bulbs, and far red LED strip lights, so it only makes sense that we are starting to hear more about PBAR.
Poly Tubing
Often referred to as PE tubing or polyethylene tubing is a flexible, lightweight, durable, and corrosion-resistant plastic that can be sued for a wide range of liquid, gas, and fluid transfer applications. Poly tubing is also FDA-approved for use in food and beverage applications.
Roots
When the seeds have gone through the germination stage for about three to five days, a white root will start to grow from the seed. Once the seed is planted, this root is called the taproot, otherwise known as the main root, where other rootlets sprout, forming almost a pyramid-like structure. The cannabis plant’s taproot usually grows vertically and the offshoots horizontally. These other rootlets are critical to the cannabis plant anatomy as the roots absorb the nutrients and the water that feeds the plant and allows it to grow.
Sativa Strains
Cannabis Sativa strains have a higher THC-to-CBD ratio, which causes an uplifting and inspirational “head high.” As a result, Sativa strains are also typically the recreational marijuana of choice. Since the CBD levels are lower in Sativa strains, the body effects and relaxation properties are less pronounced than with Indica strains. Daytime use of Sativa is preferred as the higher THC content has been shown to have a stimulating effect. Sativa strains are good for conditions of the mind and have been shown to treat depression, stimulate appetite, increase focus, boost energy, and improve moods.
Seedlings
Let’s delve into the cannabis seedling anatomy. The baby cannabis plant, as it starts to develop slowly, is called a seedling. The plant is considered a seedling until fan leaves begin to form. Look for the seedling to be a vibrant green color to monitor the plant’s health early on. If you are growing your own cannabis plant, be sure not to overdo it on the watering, as the weed roots are tiny at this seedling stage.
Stems
When the fan leaves absorb the light from the sun, and new leaf growth appears, the stem will become thicker and stronger. When this happens, more internodes develop around the stem. The structure of cannabis plants is due to the stem, which gives structure to the cannabis plant and supports the leaves, flowers, and branches. The stem comprises a vascular system, including the phloem and xylem. These two parts of the vascular system helps give the entire cannabis plant the support and structure it needs to grow. Growers will usually cut off the top of the stem, allowing the plant to grow even more flowers.
Stigmas
As part of a marijuana plant’s reproductive system, the stigmas are the white hair-like strands that grow on the plant’s pistils. Stigmas are an essential part of the anatomy of a cannabis plant, as these hairs collect the pollen from the male plants and are responsible for creating cannabis plant seeds. After the weed plant is mature, the color of the stigmas can change from white to hues of yellow, orange, red, and, finally, brown. An important note to highlight is that stigmas don’t influence the potency or taste of weed.
Sugar Leaves
The sugar leaves are parts of a cannabis plant similar to regular plant leaves. They are not as large as the fan leaves that grow on the marijuana plant from the cola. You can see the resinous sugar leaves growing between the buds. Sometimes, sugar leaves will have trichomes, depending on the species. Critical to protecting the plant, the sugar leaves have potent trichomes, which contain cannabinoids, like CBD and THC, and terpenes that offer recreational users a lovely high or medical patients benefits to alleviating their symptoms. While sugar leaves are not typically smoked, if they are from quality strains, they can be used to create cannabis products, like extracts, edibles, and oils.