Photo Credit: Amelia Hannah
Step into WholesomeCo Cannabis’ indoor grow facility, and you’re immediately immersed in more than just the rich, dank aroma of thriving cannabis plants. It’s a journey into the vibrant culture and artistry of cannabis cultivation. Each room boasts its own distinct terpene-rich bouquet, creating a symphony of scents that tantalize the senses and captivate every cannabis enthusiast who enters. It’s akin to stepping into a master artist’s studio, where every strain is a masterpiece waiting to be discovered.
Leading this cannabis wonderland is Ryan Turner, the visionary behind WholesomeCo’s cultivation practices. Sporting a hat emblazoned with the rallying cry, “Make Cannabis Fun Again,” Turner embodies the ethos driving his team’s endeavors—a perfect fusion of passion, innovation, and reverence for cannabis culture. His dedication to pushing the boundaries of cultivation is evident in every aspect of the facility, from meticulous attention to detail to relentless pursuit of excellence. Under Turner’s guidance, WholesomeCo doesn’t just stand as a Utah cannabis provider; it becomes a symbol of creativity and innovation in the industry.
Selection and Breeding: The Art and Science
At WholesomeCo, selecting and breeding cannabis strains is a delicate balance of art, science, and experience. Lead grower Ryan Turner and his dedicated team devote countless hours to researching genetics, experimenting with diverse combinations, and meticulously observing plant characteristics. Their aim is to cultivate strains that do more than just thrive—they seek to create unique varieties that resonate deeply with patients, offering an ideal balance of cannabinoids and terpenes. “It’s not just about finding a seed that grows well,” Turner explains. “It’s about finding one that meets our patients’ needs, providing the therapeutic benefits and sensory experience they seek.”
The intricate pheno-hunting process demands a delicate balance of intuition and scientific precision. The team meticulously evaluates hundreds of potential strains, handpicking those that display the most promising traits. Factors such as growth patterns, pest resistance, and chemical profiles are carefully considered to ensure the development of robust and reliable strains. Their focus extends beyond cultivation; it encompasses a deep understanding of how different strains can effectively alleviate specific conditions. From chronic pain, depression, and anxiety to insomnia, WholesomeCo’s cultivation practices are guided by the therapeutic potential of each strain.
Turner and his team are committed to innovation and excellence, constantly pushing the boundaries of what is possible in cannabis cultivation. This dedication results in a lineup of strains that are not only genetically unique but also finely tuned to deliver consistent, high-quality experiences to patients. Every seed chosen, every plant nurtured, reflects a deep commitment to enhancing the well-being of their community through the art and science of cannabis cultivation.
A Diverse Range of Strains
WholesomeCo proudly offers an impressive lineup of signature strains, each showcasing unique qualities that cater to a variety of patient needs. Among their notable selections are Disco Fries, MOONBOW 112 IX, Gello Banana, Affie OG, and Hawaiian Rain x Permanent Marker. Disco Fries, a hybrid of Papaya x Modified Banana and Donny Burger, stands out with its distinctive terpene profile, combining the savory notes of Donny Burger/GMO with the sweet, tropical essence of papaya.
Turner speaks passionately about another exceptional strain, MOONBOW 112 IX: “We have two killer phenotypes of this gal. One leans towards the OGKB side from the Dosidos lineage. She is incredibly potent, boasting a fuel/gas terpene profile.” These strains exemplify the creativity and meticulous care invested by the WholesomeCo cultivation team, reflecting their commitment to developing top-tier cannabis.
Each strain is a testament to WholesomeCo’s dedication to excellence, offering patients a range of therapeutic options. The diverse lineup not only highlights the innovative breeding practices but also ensures that every patient can find a strain that meets their specific needs, whether they seek relief from pain, anxiety, or simply wish to enjoy the nuanced flavors and effects of expertly cultivated cannabis.
Strain Spotlight: Affie OG
Affie OG stands as one of the most revered strains at WholesomeCo, celebrated for its potent effects and rich genetic heritage. This distinguished strain traces its lineage back to the Afghani landrace varieties, endowing it with a robust and resilient genetic foundation. Affie OG is cherished for its deeply relaxing and euphoric effects, making it a top choice among patients seeking relief from stress and pain.
Renowned for its powerful therapeutic properties, Affie OG offers a soothing experience that melts away tension and promotes a profound sense of well-being. Patients frequently turn to this strain for its ability to alleviate physical discomfort and ease the mind, providing a sanctuary of calm in the midst of life’s challenges. Its historical significance and exceptional quality make Affie OG a standout in WholesomeCo’s diverse lineup, exemplifying the company’s dedication to cultivating premium, patient-centered cannabis strains.
Cutting-Edge Cultivation Techniques
Innovation is at the heart of WholesomeCo’s cultivation process. The facility leverages state-of-the-art technology to ensure the production of the highest quality cannabis. Maintaining impeccable cleanliness is paramount, with rigorous lab testing conducted regularly to keep the plants free from viruses and pathogens. Advanced precision irrigation strategies, ECA (electrochemically activated) water treatment, and meticulous environmental monitoring are all integral components of their approach, ensuring optimal growing conditions.
These cutting-edge techniques enable WholesomeCo to fine-tune every aspect of the cultivation process. Precision irrigation ensures each plant receives the exact amount of water and nutrients needed for optimal growth, while ECA water treatment provides a safe and effective means of sterilization and pathogen control. Continuous environmental monitoring allows for the adjustment of variables such as light, temperature, and humidity, creating a consistently ideal environment for cannabis cultivation.
By embracing these advanced methods, WholesomeCo not only maximizes the quality and consistency of their products but also sets a benchmark for excellence in the cannabis industry. Their commitment to innovation and meticulous attention to detail underscore their dedication to delivering top-tier cannabis to their patients.
The Role of Technology in Cultivation
Modern technology is integral to WholesomeCo’s cultivation process, playing a pivotal role in achieving optimal plant growth and quality. The facility employs advanced automated systems to maintain precise control over every aspect of the growing environment, ensuring each plant receives the ideal amount of light, water, and nutrients.
“Automation helps us maintain consistency and quality across all our plants,” explains Turner. “It allows us to fine-tune our processes and respond quickly to any issues that arise.”
The automated systems at WholesomeCo empower the team to monitor and fine-tune growing conditions in real-time, guaranteeing that each plant flourishes under optimal circumstances. This meticulous control translates into consistently superior cannabis products, showcasing the company’s unwavering dedication to innovation and cultivation excellence. By leveraging technology, WholesomeCo establishes a benchmark for precision and quality within the cannabis industry, continuously refining the cultivation process to better serve their patients. As Turner often emphasizes, the plants never take a day off.
WholesomeCo’s Brands: Catering to Every Need
WholesomeCo’s dedication to serving Utah’s nearly 90,000 medical cannabis patients is evident in its three distinct brands, each meticulously crafted to address diverse needs while upholding the high-quality standards expected by consumers.
Ritual, the pinnacle of WholesomeCo’s cultivation efforts, offers premium craft cannabis. Hand-selected strains, grown in small batches, ensure exceptional quality and attention to detail. “Ritual is for the connoisseurs, the patients who seek the best of the best,” explains Turner. “Each batch is unique and crafted with precision.”
WholesomeCo, the flagship brand, provides a comprehensive spectrum of wellness-focused products, including flower, vapes, edibles, tinctures, and soon, topicals. These offerings cater to a broad range of wellness needs, ensuring that patients can find suitable options for their specific conditions and preferences.
Hilight, on the other hand, addresses the need for affordable yet high-quality cannabis. This brand focuses on delivering value without compromise, making medical cannabis accessible to a broader range of patients. “Hilight is about breaking down barriers and ensuring that everyone who needs cannabis can afford it,” Turner emphasizes. “We believe that cost should never be a barrier to access.”
To further enhance accessibility, WholesomeCo offers fast, reliable, and discreet statewide delivery to 23 of 29 Utah counties, with no delivery fee. Patients can order same-day or schedule their delivery or pickup for a convenient time, with pickup available seven days a week.
Whether patients seek premium quality, diverse wellness options, or affordability, WholesomeCo’s brands are designed to meet their needs, reflecting the company’s dedication to providing accessible, top-tier cannabis products to the Utah medical cannabis community.
Sustainability Efforts: Cultivating Cannabis Responsibly
Amidst an industry fraught with environmental challenges, WholesomeCo stands firm in its commitment to sustainability. The facility employs a range of eco-conscious practices to minimize its ecological footprint and promote environmental stewardship.
To reduce power consumption, WholesomeCo utilizes energy-efficient LED lighting, significantly lowering its energy demands and carbon emissions. Furthermore, the decision to cultivate in coco coir instead of rock wool minimizes waste and contributes to a more sustainable growing process.
In a bold step towards further environmental responsibility, WholesomeCo is developing a new sun-grown facility. Embracing the natural power of sunlight, this initiative not only reduces reliance on artificial lighting but also fosters a more harmonious cultivation environment. By harnessing renewable energy sources and embracing sustainable growing mediums, WholesomeCo is pioneering a path towards a greener future for the cannabis industry.
Through these concerted efforts, WholesomeCo demonstrates its unwavering dedication to sustainability, setting a precedent for responsible cannabis cultivation and inspiring positive change within the industry.
Cultivating a Bright Future for Cannabis in Utah
WholesomeCo Cannabis isn’t solely focused on providing medical cannabis—it’s about nurturing a community of passionate individuals committed to delivering top-quality products and enhancing the well-being of patients across Utah. By navigating regulatory hurdles, advocating for accessibility, and actively engaging with the community, WholesomeCo emerges as a symbol of innovation, excellence, and compassion within the state’s ever-changing cannabis scene.
Lead grower Ryan Turner’s mantra, “Make Cannabis Fun Again,” encapsulates WholesomeCo’s ethos, infusing joy and passion into every aspect of their operations. As Utah’s medical cannabis industry continues to grow, WholesomeCo remains at the forefront, investing in top-quality flower and pioneering products like live resin and hash rosin. Through their unwavering commitment to quality, accessibility, and community, WholesomeCo is not just shaping the future of cannabis in Utah—it’s cultivating a brighter, more inclusive future for all.
