Cannabis plants require various minerals and nutrients to grow and flourish. Both micro and macronutrients are needed for optimal growth and yields for quick flowering weed seeds. In particular, phosphorus is essential for flower formation and root development. Phosphorus is also required by cannabis for metabolic activities. Moreover, it is essential for plant reproduction and energy storage. Hence, cannabis must be cultivated with ample amounts of phosphorus.
Cannabinoid Quantification
A recent study has evaluated the effects of nutrient fertility on the quantification of cannabinoids in marijuana plants. Cannabis plants were sampled for cannabinoid quantification, inorganic mineral analysis, and physiological parameters at various stages of development. Flower samples were harvested at the point at which 50% of the trichomes had become amber, and the plant had reached a flowering stage (8.5 weeks after initiation of photoperiod).
This study showed that marijuana plant nutrients affect sperm quality, number, and viability. It also negatively impacts reproductive hormones, including the luteinizing hormone. Testosterone plays a vital role in fertility, but recent marijuana use has more detrimental effects on testosterone levels in men. Further, the research shows that marijuana is associated with a significant decrease in fertility. The study also showed that marijuana has an effect on male sperm counts.
Inorganic Mineral Analysis
Inorganic mineral analysis has been performed on the cannabinoid profile of cannabis plants to determine how supplemental nutrients affect cannabinoid content. Cannabis plants were exposed to three types of nutrient treatments: enhanced P fertilization, HA supplementation, and NPK. The effects of each treatment on cannabinoid content were assessed for specific organs and compounds. The P enhancement did not alter the concentration of major cannabinoids but reduced THC content in the inflorescence leaves. On the other hand, HA treatment produced organ-specific responses to cannabinoids in cannabis plants.
To perform the inorganic mineral analysis, we harvested the plants and separated them into different parts of the plant. The plant tissue was then cut into two pieces: the flowers from the large inflorescences, the smaller inflorescences, and the fan leaves and stems. The tissue was then digested using H2SO4 and H2O2, and the chemical composition of the dry tissues was measured.
Physiological Parameters Analyses
A large routinely collected database suggests that exposure to cannabis during pregnancy may negatively affect birth outcomes, and this association remains independent of sociodemographic factors and substance use. Despite these limitations, the present study provides some important insights into the relationship between cannabis and nutritional fertility. This research also demonstrates the benefits and risks of cannabis for pregnant women. It provides a rationale for the legalization of cannabis for recreational use.
During a study of 662 penis-bearing individuals who attended a fertility clinic, researchers found that those who smoked cannabis had a higher concentration of sperm compared to those who had not smoked the drug. This result defies previous studies that suggested that cannabis negatively affects sperm count. However, the study’s sample size is relatively small, and it relied on self-reporting of cannabis consumption, making it likely that some participants lied about their use of cannabis.
Phosphate Supplementation
One of the three primary nutrients required by cannabis plants is phosphorus. It is an essential macronutrient with many functions. However, phosphorus deficiencies can occur due to a variety of environmental factors, including pH problems, poor soil quality, or inadequate nutrients. Although P is an essential macronutrient, its availability in the plant can influence the biosynthesis of cannabinoids, including THC. To understand the effects of phosphate supplementation on cannabis, it was necessary to grow two genotypes of the plant under different levels of P.
Commercial marijuana nutrients are specifically formulated to meet the needs of the various stages of cannabis’ life cycle. These nutrients are often sold in one or two varieties, one for vegetative growth and another for flowering. Vegetative growth requires the equivalent of three to four NPK, while flowering requires more phosphorus. Commercial cannabis nutrients are formulated to meet the specific needs of the different stages of the flowering cycle, with nitrogen levels varying based on the type of flowering stage.
Manure Reduces Weed Biomass
In a recent study, researchers found that the use of manure reduces the biomass of weeds. It also reduced the expression of weed genes by more than forty percent. These results show that manure can help increase soil organic carbon levels. Further, compost can reduce weed biomass by up to fifteen percent. A weed control strategy should include applying manure on a regular basis. The benefits of manure are well documented and are backed by numerous studies.
However, a reviewer’s comment was amended to clarify one of the statements in the paper: “The organic manure, which contains neem cake, gradually minerals out in anaerobic conditions.” The statement has also been changed to make it more clear. We’ve incorporated this correction into the paper. Now, weed-control researchers can use manure to reduce weed biomass while enhancing soil organic matter.
Cannabinoid Morphology
Researchers have discovered that marijuana may negatively affect certain parameters of sperm. The study found that marijuana reduces sperm motility, which is important for the movement of sperm to the egg. However, it is not yet clear if cannabis use directly affects fertility. Further research is needed to establish whether cannabis use affects fertility. In the meantime, regular cannabis users are still fertile.
The reproductive development of Cannabis sativa is strongly influenced by environmental conditions, such as nutrient fertility and plant density. Higher densities of plants, for example, lead to taller plants with reduced branching. Low-density plantings have less competition and are associated with more branching. Low-light conditions also tend to result in stunted plants. The nutrient status of the cannabis plant has been implicated in some morphological changes, including reduced branching.