Sun Grown Stories Tales from a Holistic Garden

Dr. Riley Kirk and Alexandria Irons light up a chat about using social media for research and community outreach, the perks of cannabis as medicine, why growing weed outdoors is lit, and why ladies in the weed world are blazing trails. Plus, they dive into personalized medicine and the potential of isolates in pot products. They swap stories and nod to the need for educating consumers and backing small farms. And of course, Alex reminds us to trust local growers and recognize the healing magic of cannabis.
Takeaways
*Dr. Riley Kirk uses social media to effectively communicate complex scientific information about cannabis
*Cannabis is a natural compound that can be used as medicine, and its benefits are supported by scientific research
*Consumer education about cannabis is important, but can be challenging due to the legal status of the plant
*Personalized medicine is key in finding the right cannabis strains and products for individual needs
*Women in the cannabis industry and academia face challenges, but also find support and camaraderie among each other Women-led businesses in the cannabis industry are thriving and bringing unique perspectives and leadership qualities.
*Community-based research is crucial for filling gaps in cannabis knowledge and understanding the needs of consumers.
*Outdoor cultivation of cannabis produces a greater diversity of secondary metabolites and terpenes compared to indoor cultivation.
*Supporting small, regenerative farms is important for preserving biodiversity and ensuring high-quality cannabis.
*Cannabis can be a powerful tool for building connections and fostering a sense of community.
Host:
*Alexandria Irons [https://www.queenofthesungrown.com/]
Featured Guests
*Dr Riley Kirk - [https://linktr.ee/cannabichem] 
****Participate in the NAP study: [https://btstudi.es/q/napbaseline/]
Support Sungrown Stories:
If you're inspired by our mission and the stories shared today, please consider supporting our podcast and the BLAZE project. Visit our Patreon page for exclusive content and a chance to get involved with our community-driven research. Your support helps us continue to bring important conversations and insights to light.
Visit: [QueenoftheSungrown.com/podcast] for guest bios, links, and more information on how to support or get involved.
Special Offer: Use code SUNGROWN for 20% your first order of YUCCA   at [QueenoftheSungrown.com.]
Stay Connected: Like, subscribe, and share our podcast to help spread the word about sustainable cannabis cultivation and the power of community in shaping the future of the industry.
Thank You: A special thanks to our guests, listeners, and supporters for making "Sungrown Stories" a space for meaningful dialogue and discovery. 
Join us next week for more insights and stories from the world of cannabis. Until then, keep growing and thriving with nature.



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sungrown.substack.com

Hold onto your gardening gloves! In this episode, Alexandria Irons dishes out the dirt on minerals and why they're the real MVPs for both plants and humans. From the basics like hydrogen, carbon, and oxygen, to the rockstars nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, she covers all 18 essential minerals plants need to thrive.
But that's not all – she'll also clue you in on the crucial roles of calcium, magnesium, sulfur, and micronutrients, and how they're the unsung heroes of plant growth.
Then, get ready for a fertilizer face-off between organic and synthetic, as she weighs in on sustainability and finding that perfect balance for a healthy planet.
And if you thought that was it, hold onto your pot plants! Alex shares her own journey with cannabis as medicine and drops some wisdom on the miracles she's seen firsthand.
Don't miss updates on the Blaze Botanical Latitude Grow Along and a sneak peek at our next episode – where we'll be delving into the high-flying world of the cannabis economy!

Takeaways:
**Plants are like high-maintenance divas, needing a whopping 18 essential nutrients for their big show – think of them as the rock stars of the garden!
**It's all about the microbial magic show when it comes to plant nutrition – those little critters are like the chefs in the plant's kitchen, whipping up nutrients for a gourmet meal.
**Organic nutrients cozy up with fulvic acid and kelp like they're on a tropical vacation, while synthetic ones strut in like they own the place, already pre-chelated and ready to party.
**Microbes aren't just the plant's wingmen – they're the bouncers too, keeping out the riff-raff like pests and pathogens from crashing the party.
**Think of minerals like plant Tinder matches – it's all about compatibility and chemistry for a swipe-right kind of relationship.
**Balancing plant nutrients is like being a DJ at a plant party – you gotta mix it up just right for those plants to dance their way to optimal growth and yield.
**When it comes to fertilizer, it's a battle between eco-warriors and chemical cowboys – who will win the green showdown?
**Taking a holistic approach to plant health is like giving them a spa day – pamper those leaves for nutrient-packed bliss!
**A balanced fertilizer is like the perfect smoothie – packed with all the good stuff to keep those plants healthy and happy.
**Cannabis isn't just for chilling out – it's like the Swiss Army knife of medicine, tackling everything from pain relief to boosting mood.
***Last day to sign up for BLAZE is 4/20/20 – it's like a virtual cannabis garden party where green thumbs swap tips and tricks!

Join BLAZE [https://www.queenofthesungrown.com/blaze]

Host:
**Alexandria Irons [https://www.queenofthesungrown.com/]

Featured Guests

**Dr. Pepper Hernandez - [drpepperhernandez.com]
**Luna Stower - [http://www.lunastower.com/]

Support Sungrown Stories:
If you're inspired by our mission and the stories shared today, please consider supporting our podcast and the BLAZE project. Visit our Patreon page for exclusive content and a chance to get involved with our community-driven research. Your support helps us continue to bring important conversations and insights to light.
Visit: [QueenoftheSungrown.com/podcast] for guest bios, links, and more information on how to support or get involved.
Special Offer: Use code Stoner for 42% off all online Holistic Horticulture classes at [QueenoftheSungrown.com.]
Stay Connected: Like, subscribe, and share our podcast to help spread the word about sustainable cannabis cultivation and the power of community in shaping the future of the industry.
Thank You: A special thanks to our guests, listeners, and supporters for making "Sungrown Stories" a space for meaningful dialogue and discovery. 
Join us next week for more insights and stories from the world of cannabis. Until then, keep growing and thriving with nature.



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscrib

Summary:
Get ready to dig deep into the dirt and uncover the hilarious world of soil and communities in this episode! From the soil food web to compost capers, we cover it all. Our guests spill the beans on everything from the law of return to the scandalous connection between soil and forest health. And who could forget Alexandria Irons, sharing her secrets to success in regenerative farming, complete with poop anecdotes and the importance of furry friends in land management. Plus, we've got tips for soil prep and the inside scoop on BLAZE, the coolest citizen science project out there!

Takeaways:
*Regenerative gardening: where plants and microbes party together!
*Compost: the life of the soil party, keeping it funky.
*Watch out for human shenanigans – plastics and chemicals are the party poopers.
*Sustainability and regenerative living: keeping the planet grooving.
*Know your soil's style: texture and the soil food web are the ultimate gardening hacks.
*Planting straight into the ground? Look out for underground party crashers!
*Poop talk: it's the secret sauce of regenerative farming!
*Animals: the unsung heroes of regenerative farming.
*Let's support legacy growers and promote social equity in the cannabis industry.
*Giving back to the community: the ultimate garden party favor.
*Soil prep 101: organic matter, texture, and pest protection – gardening made fabulous.
*BLAZE: Signup ends 4/20!!
Join BLAZE [https://www.queenofthesungrown.com/blaze]

Host:
—>Alexandria Irons [https://www.queenofthesungrown.com/]

Featured Guests:
—>Jorge Cervantes - [https://jorge-cervantes.com/]
—>Jeff Lowenfels  - [https://www.jefflowenfels.com/]
—>Luna Stower - [http://www.lunastower.com/]
—>Kimmie Mullens, Founder Jackalope Farms - [https://www.instagram.com/jackalope_farms_oklahoma] 
—>Dr. Pepper Hernandez - [drpepperhernandez.com]

Chapters
*00:00 - Introduction to Regenerative Gardening
*13:23 - Addressing Soil Degradation and Plastic Pollution
*26:21 - The Benefits of Planting in the Ground
*28:09 - Taking a Holistic Approach to Gardening
*29:06 - Utilizing Animal Waste in Regenerative Farming
*31:03 - The Role of Animals in Land Management
*32:44 - The Environmental Impact of Factory Farming
*34:40 - Regeneration Beyond the Garden
*44:42 - Supporting Social Equity in the Cannabis Industry
*53:45 - The BLAZE Citizen Science Project Update

Support Sungrown Stories:
If you're inspired by our mission and the stories shared today, please consider supporting our podcast and the BLAZE project. Visit our Patreon page for exclusive content and a chance to get involved with our community-driven research. Your support helps us continue to bring important conversations and insights to light.
Visit: [QueenoftheSungrown.com/podcast] for guest bios, links, and more information on how to support or get involved.
Special Offer: Use code SUNGROWN for 20% off your first order of Yucca root extract powder at [QueenoftheSungrown.com.]
Stay Connected: Like, subscribe, and share our podcast to help spread the word about sustainable cannabis cultivation and the power of community in shaping the future of the industry.
Thank You: A special thanks to our guests, listeners, and supporters for making "Sungrown Stories" a space for meaningful dialogue and discovery. 
Join us next week for more insights and stories from the world of cannabis. Until then, keep growing and thriving with nature.

References
Microbial Respiration - an overview | ScienceDirect Topics [https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/immunology-and-microbiology/microbial-respiration] 


This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sungrown.substack.com

Get ready to roll into the wild world of cannabis genetics with the Alexandria Irons as your guide! From the OG Kush saga to the quirky realm of triploid cannabis, this episode is a potpourri of laughs and insights. Discover why preserving ancient landrace strains is like keeping a treasure trove of weed wisdom. And hey, forget about those tired old categories like indica and sativa – we're breaking the green ceiling! Whether you're a backyard bud enthusiast or dreaming of becoming the next ganja guru, this episode's got nuggets of wisdom for everyone. So grab your gardening gloves and join the Queen of the Sungrown for a pot-tastic adventure!
Join BLAZE [https://www.queenofthesungrown.com/blaze]
Host:
—>Alexandria Irons [https://www.queenofthesungrown.com/]
Featured Guests: 
—>Jeff Lowenfels [https://www.jefflowenfels.com/]
—>Ben Lind Co-Owner of The Humboldt Seed Company - [https://humboldtseedcompany.com/]
—>Dr Gary Yates 

Key Takeaways:
OG Kush: It's like the Beyoncé of weed – iconic and unstoppable.
Triploid Cannabis: Faster, stronger, and more resistant – it's like the superhero version of your favorite strain.
Landrace Strains: Think of them as the ancient ancestors of your favorite greenery – preserving them is like saving the world, one bud at a time.
Indica vs. Sativa: Forget about labels, man! It's all about the vibe, not the tribe.
Outdoor Growing: From choosing the perfect strain to prepping your soil, it's like hosting the ultimate garden party for your buds.
Chapters:
*00:00 - Let's kick off this green adventure!
*00:44 - Growing OG Kush and Triploids: Where we delve into the secrets of growing the OG legends and those funky triploid strains.
*07:28 - Influence and Popularity of OG Kush: It's like the rockstar of the cannabis world – let's bask in its glory.
*08:48 - Discovery, Controversy, & Benefits of Triploid Cannabis: From "Eureka!" moments to eyebrow-raising controversies, and the perks of growing triple-threat plants.
*13:37 - Preserving Land Race Strains & The Importance of Genetic Diversity: Because saving ancient strains is like being the guardian of weed wisdom, and genetic diversity is the spice of life!
*20:35 - Choosing the Right Strains for Your Region: Let's play matchmaker between strains and environments – it's like Tinder for plants!
*23:03 - Understanding & Working with Land Races: Unraveling the mysteries of traditional strains and getting down and dirty with ancient genetics.
*27:34 - The Genetic Diversity of Cannabis: Let's celebrate the kaleidoscope of weed genetics – it's like a cannabis family reunion!
*30:26 - Reevaluating the Indica-Sativa Classification: Time to shake up the old-school labels and embrace the full spectrum of effects.
*33:20 - The Importance of Genetic Diversity in Breeding: Because innovation thrives on diversity – let's mix things up in the breeding lab!
*35:05 - Choosing Genetics for Your Environment: From snowy mountains to sunny beaches, let's pick the perfect strains for every setting.
*51:11 - Understanding the Indica-Afganica Classification: Let's decode the cannabis code and explore regional variations.
*55:16 - Exploring the Sativa-Indica Classification: It's like diving into the yin and yang of cannabis effects – let's find our balance!
*57:00 - The Origins and Adaptations of Cannabis Ruderalis: From the underdog of the cannabis world to its quirky adaptations – it's Ruderalis time!
*01:08:25 - Growing Auto-flowering Strains in Challenging Climates: Because even cannabis plants need to adapt – let's thrive in tough conditions!
*01:18:32 - Guidance on conducting the BLAZE Project: It's like being a cannabis detective – let's crack the code on strain performance!
*01:22:24 - Choosing Strains for Bubble Hash Production: Let's bubble up some fun and pick the perfect strains for those resinous delights!
*01:27:03 - Update on the BLAZE Project: Get your magnifying glass ready – it's time for a project update!
*01:29:16 - N

Get ready for an illuminating journey into the heart of plant evolution and soil health in our upcoming episode of Sun Grown Stories! Here's a sneak peek at what's in store:
🌿 Episode Preview: The Soil Food Web and Seedling Secrets
Join us as we uncover the intricate relationship between plants and the microbial world beneath our feet. From the fascinating evolution of seed plants to the vital role of beneficial microorganisms, we'll delve deep into the unseen world that sustains our gardens.
📚 Special Guest Spotlight: Jeff Lowenfels
Join us as we dive into a captivating conversation with Jeff Lowenfels, the mastermind behind the revolutionary "Teaming With" series. Explore his insights into the hidden world of soil microbiology and the symbiotic relationships that drive plant health
[https://www.jefflowenfels.com/]
🌱 Nurturing Seedlings: From Germination to Growth
Discover the key factors influencing successful seed germination and seedling growth. From moisture levels to the magic of cotyledons, we'll uncover the secrets to nurturing robust, healthy plants from the very beginning.
🌎 Regenerating Our Earth: Composting and Soil Health
We discuss the difference between potting mix and soil, and why understanding this distinction is crucial for every gardener. Plus, learn how you can start composting today to regenerate your native soil and cultivate thriving gardens.
🌟 Special Announcement: Blaze Citizen Science Grow Along Project
Exciting news! We'll be unveiling details about the Blaze Citizen Science Grow Along project, where you can join us in a hands-on exploration of cannabis cultivation. Don't miss this opportunity to grow and learn together!
🎙️ Upcoming Episode Teaser: The Lineage of OG Kush
Stay tuned for our next episode, where we'll unravel the fascinating lineage of OG Kush. From its origins to its impact on modern cannabis culture, this promises to be an episode you won't want to miss!
Thank you for being a vital part of our Sun Grown journey!
With sunshine and soil,
Alexandria 
Queen of the Sun Grown 🌞[https://www.queenofthesungrown.com/pages/sungrown-stories-podcast] 


This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sungrown.substack.com

Welcome to "SungGrown Stories," where we dive deep into the heart of cannabis cultivation, sustainability, and the incredible individuals shaping the industry. In today's episode, "Women of Weed," we're celebrating Women's Day by shining a light on the vital role of female cannabis plants and the trailblazing women in the cannabis field.
Episode Highlights:
- The Importance of Female Cannabis Plants - Learn why female plants are crucial for producing seedless, high-quality cannabis flowers, and explore the history and science behind feminized seeds. (Season 1, Episode 2)
- Spotlight on Women in Cannabis  - Hear from several influential women making waves across various sectors of the cannabis industry, from commercial cultivation and medicinal research to brand building, political activism, and more.
---- >Kimmie Mullen of Jackalope Farms shares her journey and innovative cultivation techniques in Oklahoma, highlighting the sustainability and resilience of hugelkultur. 
---->Dr. Riley Kirk, a cannabis scientist and educator, discusses bridging the gap in consumer education and advocating for cannabis through science.
---- >Luna Stower talks about her work in fostering corporate social responsibility and supporting legacy growers and small cannabis operations.
---- >Bess Byers (Canna Bess), combines her passion for photography, cannabis advocacy, and political journalism to influence positive changes in cannabis policies.
Grow Along with Queen of the Sun Grown
Join us in our Grow Along initiative, part of the Blaze Botanical Latitude and Zone Evaluation project, aimed at developing outdoor growing zones specific to cannabis. Learn how you can contribute or participate in this groundbreaking research. 
Next Episode Preview:
Don't miss our next episode focused on seed germination and creating the perfect environment for your seedlings. Get expert tips and tricks to ensure your cannabis plants have the best start possible.
Support Sungrown Stories:
If you're inspired by our mission and the stories shared today, please consider supporting our podcast and the BLAZE project. Visit our Patreon page for exclusive content and a chance to get involved with our community-driven research. Your support helps us continue to bring important conversations and insights to light.
Visit: [QueenoftheSungrown.com/podcast] for guest bios, links, and more information on how to support or get involved.
Special Offer: Use code SUNGROWN for 20% off your first order of Yucca root extract powder at [QueenoftheSungrown.com.]
Stay Connected: Like, subscribe, and share our podcast to help spread the word about sustainable cannabis cultivation and the power of community in shaping the future of the industry.
Thank You: A special thanks to our guests, listeners, and supporters for making "Sungrown Stories" a space for meaningful dialogue and discovery. 
Join us next week for more insights and stories from the world of cannabis. Until then, keep growing and thriving with nature.


This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sungrown.substack.com