In this conversation, Tad Hussey from KiS Organics shares his extensive knowledge on soil properties, organic cultivation, and cannabis growing. He discusses the importance of understanding the physical, biological, and chemical aspects of soil, as well as the role of soil biology in nutrient cycling. Tad reflects on his journey from a traditional gardening background to specializing in cannabis cultivation, emphasizing the significance of soil testing and proper irrigation practices. He also addresses the challenges of managing plant health and senescence, advocating for continuous learning and adaptation in cultivation practices. In this conversation, Tad Hussey from KiS Organics discusses the complexities of cannabis cultivation, emphasizing the importance of separating marketing from genuine product efficacy. He highlights the significance of experimentation in growing practices, the role of plant stress in cannabinoid production, and the necessity of integrated pest management (IPM) for healthy plants. Hussey advocates for a science-based approach to organic gardening, focusing on sustainability and ethical sourcing of soil amendments. He reflects on the evolution of soil recipes and the challenges faced in the cannabis industry, ultimately expressing gratitude for being part of this dynamic field.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Tad Hussey and His Journey01:17 Early Gardening Experiences and Transition to Cannabis05:24 Establishing KiS Organics and Unique Edibles11:42 First Experiences with Cannabis Cultivation20:33 Understanding Soil Science and Organic Practices28:06 Navigating the Cannabis Cultivation Landscape32:01 Evolution of KiS Organics Soil Recipe34:16 The Evolution of Soil Mixes36:51 Understanding Soil Properties39:55 Microbial Dynamics in Soil41:58 The Role of Watering Techniques45:06 Indoor vs Outdoor Cultivation Practices48:04 The Importance of Soil Testing51:17 Managing Crop Cycles Efficiently53:56 Irrigation and Environmental Management57:04 Plant Stress and Its Effects01:00:06 Balancing Stress for Optimal Yields01:10:42 Navigating Living Soil Dynamics01:12:52 The Importance of Integrated Pest Management01:15:22 Unique Approaches to Cultivation01:19:53 Sustainability in Cannabis Cultivation01:23:00 Evaluating Source Materials for Sustainability01:27:44 Final Thoughts and Future Directions