Cannabis growers know that the drying process is crucial for the overall quality of their product. Light exposure dramatically alters the chemical makeup of the product, meaning a controlled environment is critical for drying the harvest before going to market.
As of 2022, 18 states will have legalized cannabis, making it one of the fastest-growing industries in the US and Canada. Professional growers rely on quality light deprivation techniques and materials to produce aromatic plants. Americover’s BOLD® Black Out Light Deprivation Tarps provide the ideal growing environment.
The Importance of Light Deprivation in the Drying Process
Cannabis plants must dry in a controlled environment for at least fifteen days. Quick-drying methods often involve increasing the airflow and higher temperatures. However, cannabis that dries too quickly will suffer from a less vibrant aroma and taste, and will not have time to properly eliminate the chlorophyll. A light-controlled environment with proper ventilation is the highest quality way to dry cannabis plants.
One of the biggest mistakes that a grower can encounter during the drying process is exposure to sunlight. The primary fragrant and intoxicating compounds in cannabis, cannabinoids, and terpenes, are fragile compounds with relatively low boiling points. If the plant is exposed to sunlight, those chemicals could evaporate ahead of time, causing the plants to taste and smell like hay.
Additionally, one of the goals of the drying process is to starve the plant. If the plant is exposed to sunlight, it will continue to grow. Cannabis should be allowed to dry in a cool, dry, well-ventilated, dark environment to eliminate chlorophyll and preserve its rich aroma and taste.
Benefits of Americovers BOLD® Black Out Light Deprivation Tarps
Growers can get the best of both light and temperature control with Americover’s Bold® Black Out Light Deprivation Tarps for greenhouses. This black and white, 8 mil reinforced poly sheeting with a polyester scrim provides total darkness and reduces heat build-up. This sheeting contains extra carbon black to enhance outdoor life expectancy. The white layer features additional UV inhibitors and thermal stabilizers. These tarps are free of micro-perforations, which could be devastating for your crops by leaking light. The reinforced sheeting keeps punctures from becoming tears.
Trusted by Growers, Builders, and Distributors
Americover is the smart source for plastic and polyethylene sheeting. Trusted by contractors and distributors across the construction and agriculture industries, our American-made products combine reliability with quality and innovation.
As an Americover customer, you will receive the personalized support of a dedicated account manager to simplify the ordering process and ensure the best solution for every one of your projects. Our friendly, knowledgeable staff is here to answer your questions and fulfill orders Monday-Friday from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Pacific Standard Time. If you would like to speak with a representative, call us at 760-388-6294 or contact us.