From Hemp Fields to High-Tech Grows: A Cultivator’s Journey

Justin Sheffield’s path in the cannabis industry is a story of adaptation, innovation, and efficiency. From his roots in plant and soil science at Middle Tennessee State University to his current role as director of cultivation at BeLeaf Medical Co. in Missouri, Sheffield’s journey offers valuable insights into the evolving world of cannabis cultivation.

Sheffield’s career began in 2011 when he moved to Denver, joining Medicine Man Technologies. His experience expanded as he ventured into hemp and feminized hempseed production in Colorado, then managed large-scale hemp operations in South Carolina. Today, he oversees three grow sites for BeLeaf Medical Co. in Missouri, bringing a wealth of knowledge from his diverse background.

The transition from indoor marijuana to outdoor hemp cultivation taught Sheffield valuable lessons about scaling efficiencies. “It was essentially the same, just times 1,000,” he says, highlighting the importance of maximizing efficiency and reducing costs – crucial skills in today’s competitive market.

Adapting to different environments has been a key part of Sheffield’s journey. From Colorado’s high desert to South Carolina’s humid lowlands, he learned to tailor cultivation techniques to vastly different climates. This adaptability has proven invaluable in his current role.

Sheffield emphasizes the challenge of cost-effective quality production. “Anybody can grow a great pound of marijuana, but it’s very hard to grow a great pound of marijuana for $300 and then do that six times per year,” he notes, underscoring the importance of efficient, commercial-scale production.

Outdoor hemp cultivation in pest-rich environments honed Sheffield’s Integrated Pest Management (IPM) skills. At BeLeaf, he implements a proactive approach using safe, EPA-exempt compounds and beneficial insects. This includes the use of “25(b)” products and biological control agents like beneficial mites and nematodes to combat pests naturally.

Sheffield’s agriculture background drives his focus on data collection and analysis. Using technology like Argus Controls, he fine-tunes environmental factors to optimize yields. This data-driven approach allows for precise management of temperature, humidity, and lighting to maximize production efficiency.

Sheffield’s approach demonstrates how traditional agricultural knowledge, combined with cutting-edge technology and a focus on efficiency, can drive success in the maturing cannabis industry. His experience underscores the importance of adaptability, continuous learning, and data-driven decision-making in navigating the complex world of commercial cannabis cultivation. As the industry continues to evolve, cultivators like Sheffield are at the forefront, blending time-tested agricultural wisdom with innovative techniques to meet the challenges of modern cannabis production.