The Cannabis Cultivation Certificate Program provides you with the training necessary to grow quality cannabis at scale.

The program was developed by the world's most respected and decorated cannabis horticulture experts. You will learn how to grow consistent, compliant, high-yield, commercial-grade cannabis. Whether you're looking to enter into a career in cannabis cultivation, take your home grows to the next level, or want to move up at your current cultivation job, this is the program for you.

1. 01. Cannabis Botany

   7 Lessons

   In this course, you will identify and discuss various parts of the cannabis plant, including the proper terminology. We will learn how to differentiate male from female plants as well as the basic mechanics of sexual propagation. Lastly, we will discuss the details of the trichome, including it’s full maturation cycle. After completing this course, you will be able to:

   • Identify the difference between a male and female flower
   • Understand the mechanics of sexual propagation
   • Recognize the state of trichome maturity

   Lessons included in this course:

   • Botany of Female Flowers

     21m
     This video discusses marijuana flowers, the terminology used, as well as the botany of female flowers. Female flower are emphasized as these flowers make up the bulk of the cannabis industry.
   • Sexing (Update)

     16m
     The video discusses how to differentiate between male and female cannabis plants. Removing male plants from your garden prevents them from pollinating with the female, which reduces resource waste and protects your product.
   • Trichomes

     9m
     This video discusses trichomes, which contain the active ingredients and cannabinoids of the cannabis plant. Cannabis has six different types of trichomes, three that are resinous and three that are non-resinous.
   • Trichomes (Update)

     14m
     This video discusses trichomes, which contain the active ingredients and cannabinoids of the cannabis plant. Cannabis has six different types of trichomes, three that are resinous and three that are non-resinous.
   • Male Flowers

     19m
     This course discusses the botany of male flowers, which are required for breeding. You need pollen from the male plant in order to breed.
   • Harvesting (Update)

     29m
     This video discusses the harvesting process for cannabis, particularly what to harvest and when to harvest it.
2. 02. Cannabis Genetics 101

   7 Lessons

   In this course, you will understand the benefits and downsides of propagating with seeds vs clones, describe the differences between Indicas (Wide Leaf Drug Cultivars) and Sativas (Narrow Leaf Drug Cultivars) and learn to identify the factors that determine which cultivars to grow in various environments. After completing this course, you will be able to:

   • Understand the benefits and downsides of propagating with seeds vs clones
   • Describe the differences between Indica (Wide Leaf Drug Cultivar) and Sativa (Narrow Leaf Drug Cultivar)
   • Identify the factors that determine which cultivars to grow in various environments

   Lessons included in this course:

   • Sativa vs Indica

     2m
     This video discusses how all cannabis originally came from one location. Two strains, Sativa and Indica, evolved over time in different latitudes.
   • Landrace

     3m
     This video discusses landrace cannabis, which are varieties of cannabis that have acclimated to a new environment and have unique characteristics due to environment and isolation.
   • Hybrids

     6m
     This video discusses why people work with hybrid plants and how working with a variety of hybrids allows people to grow a more desirable trait.
   • How to Decide Which Genetics to Grow

     3m
     This video discusses how cultivators should choose their genetic material based off their desire, such as selling or for personal use. It also discusses the places and weather that are appropriate for a specific type of grow.
   • Breeding Basics

     4m
     This video discusses cannabis breeding and how the goal is to aim for a desired result. It discusses the importance of preserving a line, ensuring the children are of the same quality as the parents.
   • The Future of Breeding

     4m
     The video discusses how the future of breeding is in using modern breeding tools. It discusses how genetic markers can be used to trace desirable traits of a plant.
3. 03. Germination, & Transplanting

   4 Lessons

   In this course, you will learn to identify a non-viable seed, list the necessary conditions to germinate seeds, name several types of germination media, and understand proper transplanting protocols. After completing this course, you will be able to:

   • Recognize a non-viable seed
   • List the necessary conditions to germinate seeds
   • Name several types of germination media
   • Understand proper transplanting technique

   Lessons included in this course:

   • Seed Viability and Storage

     16m
     In this video segment, Mel Frank and Derek Gilman cover seed viability and storage. The germination process starts with seeds, Seeds with full color have a tendency to be more viable, along with being fully formed. Adding a small amount of hydrogen peroxide can prevent mold from forming on the seeds. Dry and cool conditions are crucial for long-term storage.
   • How to Germinate Seeds

     17m
     In this video segment, Mel Frank and Derek Gilman show how to germinate seeds. In order to germinate, seeds require a temperature higher than 32F, and ideally between 70F-90F. Always plant germinated seeds with the tap root pointed down. Under proper conditions, seeds start to germinate in 1-10 days.
   • Transplanting

     16m
     In this video segment, Mel Frank and Derek Gilman break down transplanting. Flowering plants can revert back to a vegetative cycle by increasing the photoperiod. Make sure to moisten the area where the roots are going to make contact. The plant is ready once the roots have filled the container. Containers should be filled just below the top edge.
4. 04. Cannabis Cloning 101

   4 Lessons

   In this course, you will understand the concept of asexual propagation, explain the process of cloning and best cloning practices, identify at least TWO different cloning substrates and understand the concept of Micro-propagation. After completing this course, you will be able to:

   • Understand the concept of asexual propagation
   • Explain the process of cloning and best cloning practices
   • Identify different cloning substrates
   • Understand the concept of Micro-propagation

   Lessons included in this course:

   • Intro to Asexual Propagation

     11m
     In this video segment, Kevin Jodrey gives an introduction to asexual propagation, which includes cloning. Sexual propagation involves the union of pollen with the egg to produce a seed. Cloning substrates include: floral foam cubes and mineral/stone wool.
   • How to Make Clones

     18m
     In this video segment, Kevin Jodrey shows how to make clones. Always sterilize your cutting implement to reduce the risk of disease. Rooting hormones accelerate the the pace of rooting. Always separate the working material from the source materials to avoid contamination.
   • Micropropagation

     3m
     In this video segment, Kevin Jodrey talks about micropropagation. Micropropagation is the practice of rapidly multiplying parental plant stock, using modern tissue culture methods. Micropropagation is commonly employed in commercial agriculture.
5. 05. Soil and Growing Media for Cannabis

   5 Lessons

   In this course, you will understand the concept of ‘Living Soil’ and name at least one method to introduce biology into the growing media. After completing this course, you will be able to:

   • Identify the main difference between Soil and Soilless substrates
   • Explain the mechanics of nutrient uptake
   • Understand the concept of ‘Living Soil’
   • Name at least one method to introduce biology into the growing media

   Lessons included in this course:

   • Introduction to Soil and Growing Media

     15m
     This video discusses the difference between soil and media, and how these differences between the water and air holding ability. These differences tell us where we can cultivate within the earth.
   • Introduction to Living Soil

     3m
     This video gives an introduction to living soil and how to grow cannabis plants regeneratively.
   • Actively Aerated Compost Tea (AACT)

     18m
     This video discusses how humic acid is used to neutralize the chloramine growth in water. The video also discusses how compost tea can either be fungal or bacterial dominant.
   • One Drop

     4m
     This video looks at one drop of compost tea, and discusses the biology that it is composed of, which is considered legendary.
6. 06. Cannabis Light Sources

   5 Lessons

   In this course, you will learn the concept of photoperiod, identify BOTH growth stages of the cannabis plant, name at least THREE light source options, describe the benefits of various light spectrums and explain the concept of ‘Light Deprivation’. After completing this course, you will be able to:

   • Understand the concept of photoperiod
   • Identify BOTH growth stages of the cannabis plant
   • Name at least THREE light source options
   • Explain the concept of ‘Light Deprivation’

   Lessons included in this course:

   • Photoperiod and Light Cycle

     5m
     This video provides an overview on different light sources and their importance to the plants vegetative and flowering cycles. In addition, plant hormones and lighting techniques are discussed.
   • Light Sources

     12m
     This video discusses different lighting options, key terms, and chemical processes that occur within the plant. In addition, this video provides an overview of how different lighting setups can affect the quality of final cannabis products.
   • Light Deprivation

     3m
     Light deprivation is often used to influence the flowering and harvesting cycles of cannabis. This video discusses different light deprivation techniques and how they affect indoor and outdoor grows.
   • Higher Knowledge Bonus: Inverse Square Law

     2m
     The Inverse Square Law states that as we move away from a light source, it doubles in loss. This is a key component to be aware of when creating an indoor cultivation site.
7. 07. Cannabis Watering Essentials

   5 Lessons

   During this course, you will explore the various sources of water and the factors that affect water quality. We will discuss methods to evaluate, as well as maintain, the quality of the water. Next, we will demonstrate the functions and uses of a commercial irrigation system. Finally, we will discuss watering frequency, including the signs of overwatering, underwatering, and ideal plant posture. After completing this course, you will be able to:

   • Name the various water source options
   • Explain the critical factors that affect water quality
   • Recognize the signs of over-watering and under-watering

   Lessons included in this course:

   • Water Sources

     6m
     This video discusses the pros and cons of different watering sources for regulated cannabis: agricultural wells and municipal water. In addition, the expert also provides tips when working with these sources.
   • Water Treatment Methods

     4m
     This lesson discusses a variety of water treatment methods including charcoal filtration, ozone, reverse osmosis, ultraviolet light, humic acids, and much more.
   • Commercial Irrigation Systems

     2m
     This lesson discusses commercial irrigation systems that use sophisticated timers and water delivery systems. These systems are fine-tuned and allow the cultivator greater control over how often the plant is watered.
   • Watering Frequency

     6m
     Watering frequency is affected by a number of factors, including plant size, temperature, and growing medium. This lesson details the ideal amount of watering, over and under watered plants, and helpful watering tools.
8. 08. Vegetative Cycle of the Cannabis Plant

   5 Lessons

   In this course, you will learn to understand the concept of photoperiod, describe the role of each of the three major nutrients, recognize signs of nutrient deficiencies and Identify several training techniques and their benefits. After completing this course, you will be able to:

   • Understand the concept of photoperiod
   • Describe the role of each of the three major nutrients
   • Recognize signs of nutrient deficiencies
   • Identify several training techniques and their benefits

   Lessons included in this course:

   • Vegetative Photoperiod

     4m
     In this video segment, Kyle Kushman describes the vegetative photoperiod. Photoperiod is the number of hours in light and dark. In a veg house, it is good to keep it under 24 hours of continuous lighting. In flowering, it is good to have 12 hours of light. Most clone cultivars use 18 hours of vegetative photoperiod.
   • Nutritional Requirements During the Vegetative Cycle

     5m
     In this video segment, Kyle Kushman talks about the nutritional requirements during the vegetative cycle. Nitrogen is an essential compound of chlorophyll as well as many amino acids, and is vital for stem, shoot, and leaf growth. Nitrogen is the most important macronutrient during the veg cycle. Bigger plants require more nutrients than smaller plants.
   • Fertigation Room

     4m
     In this video segment, Kyle Kushman covers a fertigation room. The ratio of N-P-K is always listed in the same order on every nutrient label. The fertigation system is the brains of the system, where all components of the nutrient formulas are programmed. The machine can also read how bright it is in the grow room.
   • Training Vegetative Plants

     2m
     In this video segments, Kyle Kushman dissects training vegetative plants. The main benefit is to maximize the potential yield. Maximizing the exposure of light and airflow also inhibits the spread of diseases and pathogens.
9. 09. Flowering Cycle of the Cannabis Plant

   7 Lessons

   In this course, you will learn the requirements of the flowering photoperiod, describe the role of each of the three major nutrients during the flowering cycle, recognize signs of nutrient deficiencies, and understand how to prune & the benefits of pruning. After completing this course, you will be able to:

   • Understand the requirements of the Flowering photoperiod
   • Describe the role of each of the three major nutrients during the flowering cycle
   • Recognize signs of nutrient deficiencies
   • Understand how to prune & the benefits of Pruning

   Lessons included in this course:

   • Flowering Photoperiod

     8m
     This video discusses the importance of the photoperiod and the role that the light cycle plays when it comes to flowering. The video also shows how this knowledge can be applied by taking a look inside an active grow site.
   • Nutritional Requirements of the Flowering Cycle

     14m
     In this video, cannabis experts discuss the unique nutrient requirements during the flowering cycle. In addition, this video defines major, minor, and micro nutrient requirements.
   • Pruning

     7m
     Why is pruning a necessary step in cultivation? This segment discusses the importance of pruning and how it affects the final cannabis product. In addition, the video addresses when pruning should take place, which leaves should be removed, and other common questions.
   • Trellising

     1m
     Trellising helps support cannabis plants and ensures that the branches are upright. Proper trellising also ensures proper airflow and minimizes the potential for disease. This video briefly discusses trellising and shows an example within an active grow site.
   • Proper Handling Protocol

     3m
     How should growers handle cannabis plants throughout the cultivation process? This segment shows an example of how to handle the plant and test for terpene production without damaging the trichomes.
   • Course Summary

     2m
     This final segment provides a summary of key terms and concepts of the flowering cycle. The video reviews concepts such as the photoperiod, nutrient requirements, pruning, handling, and more.
10. 10. Cannabis Pests, Diseases Or Threats

    8 Lessons

    In this course, you will learn how to combat various threats to your plants. After completing this course, you will be able to:

    • Identify the difference between pest damage, disease, or nutrient deficiency
    • Name THREE practices to prevent pest and disease issues
    • Utilize the “Daily Inspection” for proper prevention
    • Explain the concept of 'Beneficial Insects'

    Lessons included in this course:

    • Cannabis Pests & Diseases

      8m
      In this segment, you will learn about cannabis pests and diseases. You will identify the difference between pest damage, disease, or nutrient deficiency, as well as name three practices to prevent pest and disease issues, and understand the concept of beneficial insects.
    • The Daily Inspection

      12m
      In this segment, you will learn about the daily inspection of your plants for cannabis pests, diseases, and threats, as well as how the earlier the problem is identified, the easier it is to manage. You will cover how to begin your inspection of healthiest plants first to minimize the spread of pathogens, and how to identify physical damage to the plant that is typically indicative of pest damage. Distinguishing pests from nutrient deficiency and disease is also discussed.
    • Pest Prevention, Identification, & Control: Budworm Caterpillars

      21m
      This segment covers pest prevention, identification, control, and budworm caterpillars. Next, you will explore the biological control against caterpillars since flowers damaged by caterpillars have zero value. Finally, you will learn how sunlight and hot temperatures reduce the effective life span of bacteria- and fungi-based pesticides.
    • Spider Mites, Broad Mites, Russet Mites

      21m
      In this segment, you will learn about spider mites, broad mites, and russet mites. Next, you will cover the useful tools for identifying mites, as well as mite prevention, which includes sanitary conditions, a quarantine area, and performing the daily inspection.
    • Disease Prevention, Identification, & Control

      12m
      In this segment, you will learn about disease prevention, identification, and control. You will recognize powdery mildew as one of the most common cannabis diseases, as well as the differences between the vapor pressure inside the leaf compared to the vapor pressure of the air. Next, you will cover proper temperature and humidity ranges to avoid moisture on the cannabis leaves, as well as how to begin preventive maintenance practices at the beginning of the cannabis growth cycle.
    • Products to Avoid

      7m
      In this segment, you will learn about the products to avoid, including harmful sprays and chemicals with neonicotinoids, spinosad, and pyrethrin insecticides. Next, you will cover the organic controls that are permitted or not authorized for use on cannabis plants, as well as the botanical products such as specific oils, garlic, and rosemary. Finally, the benefits of looking up your state's list of both approved and banned insecticide products are also discussed.
    • Additional Threats

      6m
      In this segment, you will learn about the additional threats that could plague your cannabis grow aside from pests and diseases, such as weather and how rain and wind can destroy a crop overnight. Next, you will talk about having an adequate security system to protect your crop from thieves, as well as having a back up source of electricity for indoor grows, while also using preventive measures to protect your plants against gophers and birds of prey.
11. 11. Cannabis Harvesting & Drying

    5 Lessons

    In this course, you will learn to identify the proper indicators for harvesting cannabis, name at least three harvesting techniques and explain the various drying room parameters. After completing this course, you will be able to:

    • Identify the proper indicators for harvesting cannabis
    • Understand at least three harvesting techniques
    • Explain the various drying room tools and parameters

    Lessons included in this course:

    • Harvest Timing

      6m
      In this video segment, Kevin Jodrey covers harvest timing. The end use of the product is the primary consideration. Flower density and/or trichome color are not necessarily the only factors to consider. Detailed notes of the ripening cycle assist in identifying varietal patterns and rhythms.
    • Harvesting Timing Case Study - Creme Brulee

      3m
      In this video segment, Kevin Jodrey gives a harvesting timing case study: creme brulee. Kevin took detailed notes recording specific dates and terpene profiles. He harvested earlier than peak ripeness to capture a specific terpene profile for the extraction. Due to many variables, harvesting can be more of an art than a science.
    • Harvesting Techniques

      14m
      In this video segment, Kevin Jodrey talks about harvesting techniques. The destination and end use of a product are the primary consideration when choosing a harvesting technique. The size of the plant should determine how it should be harvested. Fan leaves are not removed when harvesting for flowers.
    • Drying Room Parameters

      4m
      In this video segment, Kevin Jodrey breaks down drying room parameters. The drying room parameters can be summarized by the three Cs: Containment, Cleanliness, and Control. Containing the odor. Controlling the humidity and temperature. Maintaining sanitary conditions.
12. 12. Cannabis Trimming & Processing

    3 Lessons

    In this course, you will learn to explain the benefits and drawbacks of hand and machine trimming, name the factors that guide processing decisions, and list the various options for separating trichomes from the plant. After completing this course, you will be able to:

    • Explain the benefits and drawbacks between hand and machine trimming
    • Name the factors that guide processing decisions
    • List the various options for separating trichomes from the plant

    Lessons included in this course:

    • Hand Trimming vs Machine Trimming

      7m
      In this segment, you will learn about the two main options you have when it comes to trimming your cannabis plant. Next, you will learn the differences between the two approaches of hand trimming or machine trimming such as the quality difference, trichome loss, aroma, residual oil, and market conditions. Also, you will cover specific hand trimming techniques and how each approach has select advantages in certain situations.
    • Alternate Harvesting Solutions

      10m
      In this segment, you will learn about alternative harvesting solutions including terpene extraction via steam distillation, freezing harvested flowers prior to CO2 or butane with dried flower, and the manufacturing of "crude," utilizing alcohol as the solvent. Next, you will learn about mechanical separation as a solventless technique, and ultrasonic sieving as another form of mechanical separation.
13. 13. Cannabis Curing and Storage

    5 Lessons

    In this course, you will learn how to explain the difference between drying and curing, identify the conditions and methods employed for the curing process, name the factors that affect shelf life and identify options and/or techniques that extend shelf life. After completing this course, you will be able to:

    • Explain the difference between drying and curing
    • Identify the conditions and methods employed for the curing process
    • Name the factors that affect shelf life

    Lessons included in this course:

    • Drying vs Curing

      2m
      In this segment, you will learn about the process differences and the end result between drying vs curing the cannabis plant. This covers drying and the removal of moisture from the plant, as well as curing and the process of controlling temperature and humidity to allow for chemical stabilization of the flower. Finally, factors behind why cured flowers have a longer shelf life and better flavor are discussed.
    • Ideal Curing Parameters

      4m
      In this segment, you will learn about the ideal curing parameters for cannabis flowers such as having the proper humidity range and ideal temperature settings. This includes using humidity and temperature measurement instruments, as well as specific techniques that allow the exchange of fresh air within the curing vessel. Finally, the pitfalls of overly dried cannabis is discussed.
    • Factors That Affect Shelf Life

      10m
      In this segment, you will learn about factors that affect the shelf life of your cannabis flower. This includes having excess temperatures that accelerate decomposition of cannabinoids and terpenes, or the continued exposure to oxygen causing the flowers to oxidize, as well as how flower structure, density, and terpene profile can impact the overall shelf life of the flower. Next, the factors of light exposure, and methods of cultivation that also affect the flowers' shelf life are discussed.
    • Cannabis Storing Solutions

      7m
      In this segment, you will learn about cannabis storing solutions such as vacuum packing or using nitrogen to remove unwanted oxygen from the storage container. Next, you will cover alternative storing solutions such as the benefits of using moisture packs to maintain ideal humidity levels within the flowers' storage vessel.