In this episode of the Way We Grow podcast, host Nick Wolfe interviews Edgar Pena, known as Masonic Smoker, who shares his journey in cannabis cultivation. The conversation covers his early gardening influences, the transition to cannabis, breeding techniques, and the importance of maintaining genetic diversity. Masonic Smoker discusses the challenges and lessons learned from setbacks, as well as his laid-back approach to pest management and the art of hash making. The episode emphasizes the joy of gardening and the personal growth that comes from cultivating plants. In this conversation, Masonic Smoker and Nick Wolfe delve into the intricacies of cannabis cultivation, discussing plant health, mold issues, and effective phenohunting techniques. Masonic shares his journey from struggling with resources to now having a robust network and tools for successful growing. They explore the importance of prevention in cultivation, the significance of free seed day in the community, and the trends in flavor profiles among cannabis strains. Masonic emphasizes the value of transparency in breeding practices and the joy of sharing knowledge and genetics with fellow growers. The conversation wraps up with personal anecdotes about memorable experiences in the cannabis world and insights into favorite strains and breeders.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Masonic Smoker03:02 Focus on Breeding and Strain Development06:09 Growing Techniques and Personal Gardening Journey09:10 Early Influences and Family Gardening Background11:54 Transition to Cannabis Cultivation15:04 Learning and Evolving as a Grower18:02 Current Growing Methods and Soil Preferences21:17 Cloning and Keeping Genetics Alive29:03 Balancing Passion and Practicality in Gardening31:00 Lessons Learned: Successes and Setbacks in Growing31:55 The Importance of Humility and Simplicity in Gardening35:07 Innovative Techniques: Hash Making and Efficient Tools36:57 Intake Methods: Preventing Pests and Pathogens42:19 Dealing with Pests: Experiences and Strategies47:03 Phenohunting Practices: Identifying Growth Patterns and Aromas56:37 Advice for New Growers: Transparency and Realism in Cultivation59:28 The Art of Seed Breeding01:02:19 Navigating the Cultivation Industry01:07:03 The Concept of Free Seed Day01:12:27 Trends in Flavor Profiles01:16:37 Personal Favorites and Memorable Experiences