In Utah, the cannabis industry is undergoing a transformation after decades of prohibition. Legalized in 2018 through the Utah Medical Cannabis Act, cannabis is now cultivated for medicinal purposes in a highly regulated environment.
The cannabis plant is one of the oldest and most genetically diverse plants globally, known for its rich variety of strains. These strains contain cannabinoids, notably THC and CBD, which interact with the human body’s endocannabinoid system—impacting mood, appetite, and pain regulation. THC is the psychoactive compound that distinguishes cannabis from other plants, while CBD is recognized for its therapeutic properties without the high.
Utah’s cannabis market operates within strict regulations. All products sold in the state must be grown, processed, and tested locally. Currently, there are eight cultivation licenses, 17 processing licenses, and 15 state-licensed pharmacies. Dragonfly Wellness, one of the primary cultivators, exemplifies the state’s commitment to quality and patient care by managing the entire supply chain, from cultivation to retail.
The Henderson brothers, who lead Dragonfly Wellness, approach cannabis cultivation as a dedicated lifestyle. Cody Henderson, the director of cultivation, emphasizes the importance of understanding the plants’ needs, including optimal light, temperature, and humidity. The cultivation process is meticulous, involving careful attention to the plants’ growth cycles. Each room in their facility is designed to create ideal conditions for different stages of plant development, from cloning to flowering.
To ensure consistency and quality, Dragonfly Wellness primarily grows from clones of mother plants. This method preserves the genetic integrity of each strain, allowing for reliable effects for patients. Currently, they cultivate 23 different strains and are testing an additional 27, aiming to provide a variety of options to meet the diverse medical needs of patients.
Cody notes that strains can affect individuals differently, likening their offerings to an ice cream shop where patients can find familiar favorites and new flavors. The state recognizes 18 qualifying conditions for medical cannabis use, highlighting the broad spectrum of treatments available.
Acquiring new strains involves extensive research due to the complex genetics of cannabis. The industry’s underground history means that many strains, such as Wedding Cake, come with varied genetic backgrounds, making consistent quality a challenge. Dragonfly employs a dragnet strategy, testing numerous genetics with the expectation that only a fraction will prove commercially viable.
A key aspect of Dragonfly’s operation is their commitment to organic farming. They avoid pesticides entirely, opting for natural pest control methods like introducing ladybugs into their grow rooms. This practice supports the health of the plants while ensuring that no harmful chemicals are present in the final products. Dragonfly also uses essential oils and ozone treatments to combat pests and mold, maintaining a clean growing environment.
Micah Henderson, the head grower, utilizes advanced technology to monitor plant health and growth cycles. This ensures that each strain receives optimal care, allowing for high yields while preserving the unique characteristics of each cultivar. The drying process, where harvested flowers are carefully managed to prevent mold, further enhances the quality of the cannabis products.
After drying, cannabis flowers are trimmed by hand, and any leftover materials are repurposed for oils and vapes, maximizing resource use. The facility is designed to keep pace with the demands of approximately 100,000 registered medical cannabis patients in Utah.
Overall, Dragonfly Wellness illustrates how Utah’s cannabis industry is evolving to meet patient needs through careful cultivation, innovative practices, and a deep commitment to organic principles. As the market grows, the focus on quality and patient health remains paramount, paving the way for a sustainable and responsible cannabis future in the state.
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