By Steven Voser


As a cannabis grower, you've likely heard or seen the term Trichoderma, either from other growers, through your own research into cannabis growing, or on the tags and descriptions of soil amendments, fertilisers, and store-bought substrates. But what exactly is Trichoderma, and why do so many cannabis growers swear by its benefits? Keep reading to find out everything you need to know.

What Is Trichoderma?

Trichoderma is a genus of soil fungi that can be found in almost all types of soils across a wide variety of ecosystems. Trichoderma feed off an assortment of other fungi, and flourish in soils with a high density of plant roots, which they can (and love to) colonise. Properly identifying and classifying Trichoderma species is difficult, as they demonstrate few (and hard to identify) morphological differences. In fact, Trichoderma was long considered monotypic (containing only a single species); today, however, at least 33 unique Trichoderma species have been identified.

Trichoderma

What Is Trichoderma Used For?

Trichoderma is commonly used in agriculture and domestic gardening, as it is known to attack and feed on other fungi and bacteria, proving itself effective in the control of a variety of different pathogens. Trichoderma products are used in the following ways:

  • To treat seeds prior to planting
  • As a soil amendment before planting
  • As a growth stimulant and biocontrol agent administered during growth

What Are the Benefits of Trichoderma for Cannabis?

Though we’ve alluded to some already, below are some of the key benefits associated with using Trichoderma in a cannabis grow.

1. Better Root Development

Trichoderma love to colonise plant roots, and thrive in the rhizosphere, where they feed off bacteria and other fungi. Trichoderma can be applied directly to your seeds, to potting soil, or around the root zone of growing plants; once they come into contact with the roots, they'll colonise the root surface, or cortex. Some strains of Trichoderma (such as T. harzianum, or T-22) are considered "highly rhizosphere competent" and can colonise plant roots as they grow. Plants grown with Trichoderma have repeatedly been shown to develop larger, healthier root systems[1] than plants grown without the fungi.

2. Protection From Pathogens

Trichoderma protect plants from pathogens in a number of ways. First, they can parasitise other fungi by attaching to them and producing enzymes that slowly break down their cells (while simultaneously protecting themselves from the enzymes they produce). Second, Trichoderma can produce antibiotics and metabolites that attack and destroy plant pathogens.

Trichoderma are also very skilled at competing for nutrients in the rhizosphere, and can effectively starve other, less competitive fungi. Trichoderma have also been shown to destroy the eggs and juveniles of plant-eating nematodes. Finally, the presence of Trichoderma at the root zone is also believed to help plants produce natural defense chemicals[2] that further stave off both soil-borne and above-ground pathogens.

Trichoderma

3. Improved Plant Health and Fruit Production

Besides stimulating root growth and helping to control plant pathogens, Trichoderma can also stimulate the overall growth of plants and their ability to produce high-quality fruit (or buds). Studies have shown, for example, that Trichoderma produce acidic metabolites that can break down organic matter in soil and thereby promote nutrient uptake by the root system.

This secretion of organic acids may also help to control soil pH, keeping plants (particularly those that like slightly acidic soil, such as cannabis) at a pH level where they can maximise nutrient uptake. Trichoderma has also been shown to secrete "hormone-like" compounds that promote[3] both a plant's above and below-ground growth.

4. Natural and Environmentally Friendly

Unlike chemical pesticides/herbicides, Trichoderma is 100% natural. Trichoderma species naturally exist in soil ecosystems, and introducing them into your cannabis garden will likely have no negative effect on the plant and animal life around you. While Trichoderma have been shown to trigger allergic reactions and other health problems in some people, the fungi are generally considered safe when used appropriately (more info below). Trichoderma-treated soil isn't toxic to animals, and won't damage other plants in your garden, nor the important microbial life forms needed to maintain a healthy living soil.

5. Soil Detoxification

One final benefit of using Trichoderma in an agricultural setting, or even in domestic gardening, is its ability to purify old or contaminated soil. Studies have shown, for example, that Trichoderma can help to degrade heavy metals such as cadmium, mercury, copper, zinc, and arsenic, which are often present in chemical pesticides, herbicides, and fertilisers. Moreover, studies have even shown that Trichoderma can even effectively break down organic pollutants such as diesel[4]. At the same time, many species of Trichoderma are highly resistant to chemical toxins, such as pesticides, for example.

How to Use Trichoderma to Grow Healthier Cannabis Plants

Given the above, all sorts of cannabis cultivators turn to Trichoderma to support their grow operation. And luckily, doing so is super simple. Ideally, we recommend using Trichoderma in one of the following three ways.

Note: Trichoderma may irritate the skin, eyes, and/or respiratory tract. Hence, always use gloves, protective eyewear, and a face mask when handling Trichoderma products.

Trichoderma

💚 To Coat Seeds Prior to Planting

Studies have found that seeds coated with Trichoderma prior to planting demonstrate increased resistance to pathogens such as Fusarium and Pythium. To coat your seeds in Trichoderma:

1. Put a small amount of Trichoderma powder in a clean and dry Petri dish or plate.

2. Use tweezers to gently place your seeds into the powder.

3. Plant your seeds directly into soil or in their starter blocks to germinate.

Once your seeds germinate, the Trichoderma you applied to them will automatically start colonising the roots. This will stimulate root growth from day 1, as well as keep your seedlings protected against pathogens that can cause wilting, damping off, and other common seedling problems.

🌟 To Amend Soil Prior to Growing

Trichoderma can also be very effective when used as a soil amendment prior to planting. There are a couple of ways to go about this:

1. You can add Trichoderma to your entire soil mix at a ratio of roughly 0 oz of Trichoderma powder or granules per litre of soil, and combine thoroughly.

2. Or, you can just add 0.2 oz of Trichoderma to the top layer of your soil, where it'll come into direct contact with your plant's roots. To do this, simply sprinkle Trichoderma powder or granules into the hole where you'll be planting your seedlings.

💹 To Support Plants As They Grow

One final way to use Trichoderma in your cannabis grow is to add it to water and apply it directly to your plants' soil as you would a liquid fertiliser:

1. Combine 0.2 oz of Trichoderma with 1l of unchlorinated water, and water as normal.

2. Repeat once every 2–3 weeks to promote healthy growth and protect your plants against pests.


Microbial and Fungal Support for Your Cannabis Plants with RQS Rhizobacter

At RQS, we're true fans of organic cannabis cultivation because it not only produces a natural product with unbeatable aromas and flavors, but also helps us minimise the impact of growing weed on the environment. If you're looking into ways to minimise your footprint, our Rhizobacter formula is 100% natural and made from algae that promote the growth of beneficial microbes and fungi, like Trichoderma, at the root zone of your plants, all without negatively impacting the environment. Our formula will help your plants stay protected against pathogens, support strong root growth, and improve nutrient uptake for optimal growth.

Here's how to use Royal Queen Seeds Rhizobacter:

• In a soil mix: Add 0 oz of Rhizobacter to every litre of soil and mix thoroughly.

• When transplanting: Add 0 oz of Rhizobacter to the hole where you plan to plant your seedling or transplant your growing plant, add in your plant/seedling, top up with soil, and water well.

• As a soil drench: Dilute 0 oz of Rhizobacter per 1 litre of water, and drench your plant’s topsoil every 21 days.

A Note on Mycorrhizae and Nematodes

The term mycorrhiza often pops up in discussions around organic cannabis cultivation. However, many growers misunderstand what mycorrhiza actually means. Mycorrhiza literally means "fungal" (myco) "root" (rhiza), and refers to a symbiotic relationship between plant roots and fungi. Mycorrhizal plant supplements (like our Easy Roots Mycorrhiza Mix, for example) typically contain fungal spores that promote the growth of mycorrhizal fungi, which, similar to Trichoderma, can help plants uptake water and nutrients, as well as stave off pathogens. While different manufacturers use different fungal species in the formulation of their products, our Easy Roots Mycorrhiza Mix contains the following fungal species:

• Rhizophagus irregularis

• Entrophospora colombiana

• Glomus spurcum

• Glomus mosseae

• Glomus geosporum

• Glomus clarum

• Glomus etunicatum

Like Rhizobacter, our Easy Roots Mycorrhiza Mix can be used as a soil amendment or drench. When adding it to soil, mix 0.1 oz of Mycorrhiza Mix into the topsoil of each plant and place 0 oz directly into the planting hole. When used as a drench, mix 0.2 oz of Mycorrhiza Mix into 1l of non-chlorinated water and apply to the soil every 2–3 weeks to promote the growth of beneficial root fungi.

Like Trichoderma and mycorrhizal fungi, nematodes are another organism that can improve the health of your soil, and therefore your plants. Nematodes are unsegmented roundworms that can be found in virtually every ecosystem on the planet. While there are some plant-parasitic nematodes that you'll want to keep as far away from your cannabis as possible, most nematodes actually benefit soil and plant life. More specifically, nematodes feed off bacteria and can help control bacterial populations in a soil ecosystem, as well as protect your plants against predatory insects. Garden centers often carry nematode species from the Steinernematidae and Heterorhabditidae families, which are known to be beneficial to plants.

Trichoderma: A Natural Way to Boost Root Health and Plant Growth

For cannabis growers, Trichoderma offers a natural way to stimulate root growth and nutrient uptake while simultaneously protecting plants from a variety of pathogens, all without producing toxic runoff or other negative outcomes for the environment. So before reaching for synthetic alternatives, harness Mother Nature to do the job for you.

Cookies settings

We are requesting your permission to use your data for the reasons stated below:

Functional cookies

Functional cookies help our website to function optimally and allow us to personalise certain features.

Preference cookies

Preference cookies allow us to remember information that influences the way our website looks, including your preferred language based on your region.

Analytical cookies

Analytical cookies give us insights into website traffic and customer behaviour, including how many people visit our site, how long they browse for, and which parts of our site they visit.

What are cookies?

Cookies are small pieces of data from a particular website that get stored on a user’s computer while they’re surfing the internet. Cookies have several different functions. Some of them track browser activity that enables businesses to deliver targeted advertisements. Other cookies serve to remember user login details to different websites to make jumping on social media, or other sites, a more fluid process. Because each cookie has its own unique ID, these pieces of data allow website owners to measure the unique traffic coming into their site.

Why do we use cookies?

Cookies come in handy when you visit our website. They ensure you stay logged in, that you can shop safely, and that the items you add to your cart stay there before you make a purchase. But cookies also help us. The data they provide allow us to improve our website and enable us to present you with targeted advertisements that are compatible with your interests.

What kind of cookies do we use?

Functional cookies

Functional cookies help our website to function optimally and allow us to personalise certain features.

Preference cookies

Preference cookies allow us to remember information that influences the way our website looks, including your preferred language based on your region.

Analytical cookies

Analytical cookies give us insights into website traffic and customer behaviour, including how many people visit our site, how long they browse for, and which parts of our site they visit.

How can I disable or delete cookies?

Not a fan of cookies? No worries. You can disable them (with the exception of necessary cookies) in your browser settings. However, blocking cookies may impact your browsing experience and prevent you from enjoying all of the technical features of our site.

Privacy Policy - Royal Queen Seeds

To ensure a safe online environment and guarantee adequate data protection, we strictly comply with all legal requirements. In this privacy statement, we provide information about how and for what purpose data is collected, safety measures, storage periods and contact details.


COMPANY NAME: SNORKEL SPAIN, SL (hereinafter ROYAL QUEEN SEEDS)

C/ Vilar d'Abdelà, 5 (nave 1) CP: 08170 de Montornès del Vallès

+34 937 379 846

support@royalqueenseeds.com


The present Privacy Policy sets out the terms on which we will treat personal data at ROYAL QUEEN SEEDS; this includes any personal data collected through our website https://www.royalqueenseeds.com/ as well as any other data we process in the course of our business activities.

ROYAL QUEEN SEEDS collects the following personal data for the purposes listed below:

SECTION 1 – PERSONAL INFORMATION WE COLLECT

1.1 Account purchases

Account purchases can only be made if you are in possession of a personal account. When you create an account or purchase something from our shop, as part of the buying and selling process we collect the following personal information that you provide to us:

This information is required for delivery. In addition, when you browse our shop, we automatically receive the Internet Protocol (IP) address of your computer. Based on this information, we can optimise your online experience and at the same time protect our online environment.

Purpose of data collection

We collect and store account-related data for the following purposes:

(a) to carry out obligations arising from any contracts between you and us, and to provide you with information, products and services that you may request from us;

(b) to set up, manage and communicate with you about your account and your orders;

(c) to conduct market research and analysis;

(d) to confirm your age and identity, and to detect and prevent fraud.

1.2 Newsletters

With your explicit permission, we may send you newsletters about our shop, new products and other updates. We send newsletters based on your explicit consent. In the event that you purchase a product, and in accordance with current regulations, we may send you commercial communications in accordance with the legitimate interest of our company, always about products or services similar to those you have purchased or contracted. In any case, you may exercise your right of opposition through the channels announced in this Privacy Policy. The following information is collected in relation to the newsletter:

We do not need to know the sex of the person in order to send the newsletter (data minimisation: by law we must ask for data that is strictly necessary to provide the service, and in this case knowing the sex is not necessary to send the newsletter).

Purpose of data collection

The data collected is used to:

(a) personalise our emails, including your name and gender;

(b) provide gender-specific content.

You can withdraw your consent at any time by using the link provided in the newsletter or the contact information provided in section 2.

1.3 Customer service and contact form

In order to provide appropriate support, our customer service employees have access to information related to the account. Consequently, their support will be highly effective and friendly. The data provided in our contact form is used by our CRM provider, SuperOffice. We will only use your details to respond to your message.

SECTION 2 – LEGITIMATE INTEREST

If you have purchased any of our products, please note that we may process your personal data for promotional purposes, based on Royal Queen Seeds' legitimate interest only to offer you products or services from our company and about products or services similar to those you have purchased. You may exercise your right to opt out of future messages by the means set out in this Privacy Policy or through any notification you receive.

2.1 How do you withdraw consent?

If you change your mind, you can withdraw your consent for us to contact you for the purpose of collecting, using, or disclosing your data at any time by reaching out to us at: support@royalqueenseeds.com.

SECTION 3 – DISCLOSURE

We may disclose your personal information if we are required to do so by law or if you breach our Terms of Service.

SECTION 4 – HOW LONG DO WE KEEP YOUR DATA?

At Royal Queen Seeds, we will not retain your data for longer than is necessary for the purposes described in this Policy. Different retention periods apply for different types of data; however, the longest period we will normally hold any personal data is 10 years.

4.1 Account information

Data relating to the account remains relevant for as long as the consumer is in possession of an account. Therefore, the data remains documented for as long as the account exists. When our customers delete an account, the associated data will be deleted within a reasonable period of time. Requests regarding the inspection or correction of stored personal data or the deletion of an account can be sent to support@royalqueenseeds.com.

4.2 Newsletters

In the event that you give us your consent to inform you about our products or services, we will keep your data until you express your wish not to receive any further communications from us. However, we regularly (every month) carry out a relevance check. Registered customers (and their personal information) will be deleted whenever customers do not reply to our request. In addition, our newsletter mailing has an opt-out feature. Consumers can withdraw their consent by using this opt-out feature.

SECTION 5 – COOKIES

Cookies are small information files that notify your computer of previous interactions with our website. These cookies are stored on your hard drive, not on our website. Essentially, when you use our website, your computer displays its cookies to us, informing our site that you have visited before. This allows our website to function more quickly and remember aspects related to your previous visits (such as your username), making your experience more convenient. At Royal Queen Seeds, we use two types of cookies: functional and analytical.

5.1 Functional Cookies

Functional cookies are used to enhance your online experience. Among other things, these cookies track what is added to your shopping cart. The use of these cookies does not require prior authorization.

5.2 Analytical Cookies

Analytical cookies are used for research and market analysis. The data collected with these analytical cookies is anonymous, making it unusable for third parties. The use of these cookies does not require prior authorization.

SECTION 5 – THIRD-PARTY SERVICES

Third-party services are required to conduct transactions and provide our services. In general, the third-party providers we use will only collect, use and disclose your information to the extent necessary to enable them to perform the services they provide to us.

However, certain third-party service providers, such as payment gateways and other payment transaction processors, have their own privacy policies regarding the information we must provide to them for your transactions.

We encourage you to read the privacy policies of these providers so that you can understand how these providers will handle your personal information.

In particular, certain suppliers may be located or have facilities located in a different jurisdiction than yours or ours. Therefore, if you choose to proceed with a transaction involving the services of a third party, your information may be subject to the laws of the jurisdiction in which that service provider or its facilities are located.

Once you leave our website or are redirected to a third-party website or application, you are no longer governed by this Privacy Policy or the Terms of Service of our website.

Web analytics service (anonymous data)

On this website we have integrated an element of a web analytics service (with anonymisation functionality). Web analytics can be defined as the gathering, processing and analysis of data about the behaviour of visitors to websites. An analytics service collects, among other things, data about which website a person came from (the so-called referrer), which sub-pages they visited or how often and for how long they visited a sub-page. Web analytics is mainly used for website optimisation and for a cost–benefit analysis of internet advertising.

Courier service

To complete deliveries we use a courier service. This courier service carries out the delivery between our company and the consumer's home. To complete these logistics, the company requires access to the consumer's name and address information.

Mailing service

Royal Queen Seeds uses a third-party mail service provider to send its newsletter. This provider has access to limited account information related to opt-in consent (e.g. email address).

Marketing services

Royal Queen Seeds has the support of a company that specialises in marketing and communication activities. Their access to personal information is very limited and mostly anonymous.

Payment services

At Royal Queen Seeds we use external payment services to handle our transactions (e.g. credit card payments).

SECTION 6 – SECURITY

To protect your personal information, we take reasonable precautions and follow industry standard best practices to ensure that it is not inappropriately lost, misused, accessed, disclosed, altered or destroyed.

If you provide us with your credit card information, the information is encrypted using secure socket layer technology (SSL) and stored using AES-256 encryption. Although no method of transmission over the internet or electronic storage is 100% secure, we follow all PCI-DSS requirements and implement additional industry standards that are commonly accepted. Information related to the account is protected with a hashing method. This method transforms the information into a generated hash. As a result, confidential information is protected and invisible, even to us. In addition, our databases are exceptionally protected against unauthorised access. For example, access to the database is only possible and permitted via approved IP addresses (e.g. from Royal Queen Seeds headquarters). Other attempts and addresses are rejected at all times.

Furthermore, data is anonymised as much as possible, so it cannot be directly linked to a specific consumer. With this data, however, we may be able to carry out market research and analysis. In addition, the third parties concerned (e.g. mailing service) are examined prior to our collaboration, comply with the GDPR from the EU and receive a processing agreement. Within Royal Queen Seeds, employees are assigned different access permissions. Specific permission provides access only to information that is strictly required to perform a task. Digital security measures are subject to change and must meet high requirements to ensure the safety of online customers. That is why, at Royal Queen Seeds, we appoint a security officer. Regular verification and improvement of security measures (where necessary) are part of the role.

SECTION 7 – CHANGES TO THIS PRIVACY POLICY

We reserve the right to modify this Privacy Policy at any time, so please check back regularly. Changes and clarifications will be effective immediately upon being published on the Website. If we make substantial changes to this policy, we will notify you here that it has been updated so you will know what information we collect, how we use it and under what circumstances, if any, we use and/or disclose it.

SECTION 8 – YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO: