#156: Living Soil 101: What It Is and Why It Matters
#156: Living Soil 101: What It Is and Why It Matters
Beneath the surface of living soil lies a thriving ecosystem where billions of microorganisms work together in perfect harmony to create the ideal conditions for plants to flourish. Living soil represents a return to nature's proven methods, a cultivation philosophy that taps into millions of years of evolutionary perfection.
Nowadays, more and more cannabis producers are discovering what living soil can do. Cannabis grown in this rich, bioactive environment develops fuller, more complex terpene profiles. And here's the remarkable part: the ecosystem beneath the surface actually strengthens with each harvest, creating a regenerative cycle that honours both the plant and the earth. It's the kind of cultivation approach that cannabis connoisseurs genuinely get excited about.
But what exactly is living soil, and why have so many growers made the switch? Let's take a closer look.
The soil food web explained
Living soil isn't your average growing medium. It's a thriving ecosystem teeming with beneficial microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, protozoa, nematodes, and even earthworms, that work together in what scientists call a "soil food web". Think of it as a bustling underground city where millions of tiny workers break down organic matter and transform it into plant-available nutrients.
Unlike traditional potting soil or synthetic growing systems, living soil creates a self-sustaining environment. The microorganisms feed on organic amendments like compost, worm castings, and plant material, then deliver nutrients to your cannabis plants in the most natural, bioavailable form possible. It's essentially nature's own slow-release fertilizer system, perfected over millions of years.
The real magic of living soil happens at the microscopic level. Mycorrhizal fungi form symbiotic relationships with cannabis roots, extending their reach and improving nutrient and water absorption. Beneficial bacteria like Bacillus and Trichoderma not only feed the plants, but they also actively protect them from pathogens and pests.
This rich microbial ecosystem does something remarkable: it boosts the production of secondary metabolites. In simpler terms, that means more terpenes and cannabinoids. Studies comparing outdoor cannabis grown in living soil to indoor plants fed with synthetic nutrients have found that the living soil samples contain significantly higher levels of sesquiterpenes like beta-caryophyllene, alpha-humulene, and limonene.
The rich nutrients and beneficial microbes in living soil help cannabis plants develop more complex terpene profiles. This results in nuanced, layered aromas that appeal to cannabis enthusiasts.
Where quality meets sustainability
We're not here to diss non-living soil cultivation. In fact, we appreciate the convenience and consistency it offers growers. But if you're a cannabis connoisseur who appreciates the finer things in life, living soil is definitely worth considering.
Superior flavour and aroma: Many cannabis enthusiasts swear that organic flower grown in living soil simply tastes better. This could be because the enhanced terpene production creates richer, more pronounced flavours.
Cleaner, smoother smoke: Some users find that cannabis grown in living soil produces a cleaner, smoother smoke. This may be due to the lack of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, which can leave behind harsh residues.
Sustainable and environmentally friendly: Living soil cultivation is inherently regenerative. Instead of depleting soil health with each cycle, growers can reuse their living soil for multiple harvests, simply recharging it with organic amendments between cycles.
Healthier, more resilient plants: The diverse microbial community naturally suppresses diseases and pests, minimizing or eliminating the need for pesticides. This helps plants better withstand environmental stress and consistently produce high-quality flowers.
Our favourite living soil picks
Ready to experience the living soil difference? Herbal Dispatch offers an exceptional selection of living soil cannabis that showcases what this cultivation method can achieve:
Simply Bare Fruit Loopz: Worlds collide with this Blue Dream × White Widow cross that produces flavourful, resinous buds.
Simply Bare Harlequin: With a 1:1 CBD to THC ratio, this strain is a cross of Columbian Gold x Thai Landrace.
Grown Here's Day Dreamin' Infused CBD Flower: This fan-favourite was awarded the best CBD flower in Canada, and is infused with CBD Kief.
Happy Hour Dancehall Smalls: A certified organic, award-winning strain bred by Reggae Seeds and grown by Coast Mountain Cannabis that is a 1:1 CBD/THC sativa.
Happy Hour Pure Cake Skunk Smalls: Another Coast Mountain Cannabis winner, this strain is a cross of Skunk #1 and Triangle Kush, and is known for its delicious citrus-forward flavour.
The final puff
Living soil represents a philosophy that prioritizes quality, sustainability, and the natural expression of cannabis genetics. With an increasing demand for organic, sustainable cannabis options, living soil cultivation is gaining popularity in the industry. Look for the "living soil" badge on the Herbal Dispatch product page and experience the difference for yourself. Happy smoking!
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