Plant growth regulators or Pgrs are chemical stimulants that are used in agriculture to maximize plant growth. Unfortunately, these molecules, used in both the agri-food chain and in commercial cannabis, can damage the environment and have negative health effects of consumers. Today, cannabis consumers are increasingly careful to consume weed that respects their health and the planet, that's why today we are going to find out what are pgr hemp, how and why to avoid them.

PGR meaning and use

THE pgr fertilizers are plant growth regulators. They are essentially used to "trick" the plant hormones of plants, favoring those that stimulate growth and inhibiting those that slow it down. These growth regulators chemically simulate substances already present in plants and if administered to crops help to stimulate growth and improve post-harvest storage extending the life of the fruits. A plant treated with the pgr in short, it grows faster and produces more abundant and long-lasting fruit. This type of plant growth regulator is used massively in extensive agriculture, especially in apples that take on a better shape and avoid falling prematurely. Extensive cannabis growers also tend to make some use of this type of fertilizer. But consumers and scientists are increasingly wondering if and how the use of pgr damages the quality of the final product.

PGR Problems for Cannabis Consumers

Cannabis treated with PGRs undergoes an alteration in its endogenous hormones. By adding hormones that activate a group of target proteins called “transcription factors,” growers can intentionally increase the amount of growth-promoting proteins and inhibit those that slow it down. The result to the naked eye seems rewarding: the buds are larger because the alterations have led them to increase their number of cells and absorb more water.

When we think about the taste factor, however, here comes the disappointment. Although the treated buds are larger and more beautiful, they contain less cannabinoids and terpenes. The psychoactive and therapeutic effects are, precisely for this reason, decidedly less pronounced in this type of cannabis than in organic cannabis.

The damage of pgrs to health and the environment

In some countries, certain growth regulators are authorized, while others are prohibited due to potential health risks. Here is an overview of the most commonly used synthetic PGRs in agriculture and their potential risks:

• Chlormequat: this molecule is widely used in the cultivation of cereals and horticultural products but according to a relationship of the New Jersey Department of Health may have several harmful effects on human health. If inhaled or taken in large amounts, chlormequat can irritate the nose, throat and lungs. Prolonged exposure may cause pulmonary edema. This substance can also cause nausea and vomiting and may damage the liver.
• Daminozide: approved in the EU and widely used for fruit growing, this pgr can be insidiously harmful. According to one study University of Hertfordshire may be moderately harmful to human health as it is recognised as an irritant. It also has a high potential for bioaccumulation and may be moderately harmful to aquatic organisms.
• Paclobutrazol: This molecule is used to help plants grow healthier and more robust, however it can create reproductive and developmental problems in animal models.

As with pesticides, synthetic plant growth regulators also contribute to release chemicals into the environment. Some studies show that these chemicals, which end up in waters, can create problems for both aquatic animals and humans, particularly reproductive problems.

How to recognize treated grass

Recognizing PGR-Treated Grass It may not be easy because some features are also obtained with natural pgr, such as algae and chitosan. It is the reliability of the seller that should make you prick up your ears first. However, here are the main features to look out for:

• The treated grass has too compact tops, almost unnatural. The inflorescences are very, very dense, weigh more and are slightly more difficult to break up.
• The treated grass is not very aromatic, less rich in flavor even when simply smelling it.
• The treated grass has a darker color than the organic one, almost tending towards brown. The trichomes are less present and therefore also the characteristic “shininess” is reduced.

The Importance of Buying Organic Cannabis

Organic cannabis, in addition to being better, protects human health and that of the planet. Buying organic cannabis means making a wise choice for yourself and others, as well as having a better consumption experience. CBD cannabis made in Piggyweed It is grown in Italy following all the dictates of organic farming, with natural processes such asLST which are able to maximize the product yield without applying any potentially harmful substances.