Evora was designed for growers, by growers—and we’re passionate about sharing our knowledge! In this guide, we’ll explore the essential tools every cultivator needs to start growing successfully. Whether you're just beginning or looking to optimize your setup, these tools will help you achieve the best results in your cultivation journey.
Pruning Shears
At a high level, there are three types of hand pruning shears: anvil, bypass, and ratchet. The most common form is the bypass pruning shear. These shears have curved blades, one sharp and bypassing the other thicker, unsharpened blade. Bypass pruners are usually the smallest of the group, making them ideal for getting in and around the branches of your plant. Anvil pruners, the second most common pruning shear, have one straight, sharpened blade and one flat edge or anvil that the sharp blade cuts down upon. Anvil pruning shears are bulkier, making them more challenging to use in tight spaces under the canopy. They are more commonly used during plant cut downs or harvests. The third type of pruning shear is the ratchet shear, which is essentially an anvil pruning shear with a ratcheting mechanism that allows the cut to be performed in stages. These are great for people with hand discomfort or fatigue.
Snips
Snips are another type of scissor commonly found in cannabis cultivation facilities. These tools often come with a “micro-tip” and are usually spring-loaded for constant “snipping.” Some people prefer snips with handles to squeeze, while others prefer more finesse-like snips that are handled with just a couple of fingers rather than a full hand grip. Snips are meant for smaller cuts, fresh growth, leaves, trimming, etc. It is best to use one of the pruning shears listed above for cutting established branches or trunks.
Sprayers / Spray Bottles
Sprayers and spray bottles are used to mist clone domes and cuttings, carry cleaners and disinfectants, apply foliar sprays, and as part of your pest management toolkit. Ensure that all liquid containers are labeled clearly to identify what is inside, any safety requirements for handling or use, the date the bottle was filled (if it’s refillable), and any other relevant information. When misting or spraying plants, avoid leaving “gems” or droplets of water on the plant that could cause nutrient burn or leave deposits.
Meters
Water Meters
Typically, water meters measure temperature, pH, ppm, Electrical Conductivity (E.C.), and Total Dissolved Solids (TDS). These meters generally have a probe that is submerged in water to capture the measurement. Some probes have glass components and contain a buffer with the sensor. Care should be taken when using these probes to avoid contaminating the reservoir and to protect the buffer in the probe.
Moisture Meters
Moisture meters provide valuable insights into what is happening in your root zone. These meters come with 2-3 probes. Some are analog and have a needle to give an approximate range, while others are digital and require some time to capture a reading.
Light Meters
Light meters are used to measure Lux/Lumens, UVA/UVC, PAR, and Spectra. Capturing this data allows the cultivator to understand how supplemental lighting is performing and provides further insight into the factors affecting the plants within the growing environment.
CO2/O2 Meters
CO2/O2 devices are crucial for monitoring the air quality in cultivation areas. Plants thrive with increased CO2, but humans do not. These devices are often part of the Occupational Health and Safety program and are critical safety tools in any environment where CO2 is supplemented. Anything mechanical can fail at any time, so these meters help mitigate that risk.
Sanitation
Disinfectant
Depending on your sanitation program, you will need a disinfectant for tools. Commonly, 70% Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA) is used, either in spray or wipe format. It is crucial to disinfect your tools and work surfaces before you begin work, during work (ideally between each plant contact), and after the work is complete. Your Integrated Crop (or Pest) Management plan begins with prevention, and tool sanitation is a key part of that.
Luminometer
A portable ATP testing device, the luminometer allows you to determine the hygienic status of surfaces and liquids. It’s particularly useful for room resets, ensuring you start with a clean environment. It’s also handy for spot-checking to ensure sanitation protocols meet quality specifications.
Documentation Tools
Seed-to-Sale Cannabis Software and SOP Templates
Leveraging seed-to-sale cannabis software for documentation is critical in maintaining efficiency and ensuring compliance in cannabis cultivation. Modern software platforms often include cannabis SOP templates and cultivation SOP templates, making it easier to standardize processes and maintain records in a consistent and compliant manner. These tools also allow for real-time data entry and retrieval, which is essential for maintaining accurate and up-to-date records.
Smart Device
A smart device, such as a tablet or phone (ideally one kept clean and free from contaminants), is essential for mobile documentation. These devices can host software applications that facilitate real-time data entry, providing instant access to critical information. Mounting tablets in convenient locations can protect them from damage and contamination while keeping them readily accessible for documentation purposes.
Clipboard
For those still using paper, a clipboard with a smooth, cleanable surface is essential. Bright colors, other than green (as green can attract pests), make them easy to locate within a room. While not as efficient as digital solutions, clipboards can still play a role in facilities that have yet to transition to paperless operations.
By no means is this a comprehensive list of tools and devices found within a commercial cultivation facility, but it is a great start! Have a favorite, must-have tool that was missed? Share it in the comments!
Importance of GAcP and Good Production Practices (GPP)
In addition to these essential tools, adhering to Good Agricultural Practices (GAcP) and Good Production Practices (GPP) is crucial for maintaining product quality and compliance in the cannabis industry. Following these guidelines ensures that your cultivation processes meet regulatory standards and that your products are consistent and safe for consumers. Proper documentation, managed through seed-to-sale cannabis software and cultivation SOP templates, plays a key role in achieving these standards and optimizing the cost of good quality in your operations.
By integrating GAcP and GPP with your documentation tools and software solutions, you can create a seamless workflow that not only supports compliance but also drives operational efficiency, helping your business thrive in a challenging market environment.
