In this episode of the Way We Grow podcast, host Nick Wolfe speaks with Matthew Gates, an expert in integrated pest management, particularly in the cannabis industry. They discuss Matthew's journey into plant biology, his experiences in agriculture, and the importance of understanding pests and their management. The conversation covers various topics, including the role of phytoplasma in plant cultivation, the significance of crop scouting, and the challenges faced in pest management. Matthew shares personal anecdotes and success stories from his work, emphasizing the need for a proactive approach to pest management and the value of empirical knowledge in agriculture. In this conversation, Matthew Gates and Nick Wolfe delve into the intricacies of pest management in cannabis cultivation, emphasizing the importance of early intervention and preventive measures. They discuss various pest control strategies, the significance of understanding pest resistance, and the role of technology in modern agriculture. The dialogue also touches on the challenges faced by new growers, the stigma surrounding pest management, and the need for a more open and educational approach within the cannabis community. Ultimately, they advocate for a data-driven future in agriculture that prioritizes sustainability and informed decision-making.

Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Way We Grow Podcast03:04 Matthew Gates: A Journey into Plant Biology06:10 The Influence of Insects on Growing08:55 Experiences in China: Agriculture and Pest Management12:01 Transitioning to Integrated Pest Management15:04 The Poinsettia Story: Genetics and Phytoplasma17:56 Comparing Cannabis and Poinsettias in Pest Management20:58 Personal Experiences with Growing Cannabis24:06 The High Desert Growing Experience26:58 Challenges in Integrated Pest Management29:59 Learning from Mistakes in Pest Management32:44 The Importance of Data in Pest Management35:54 Conclusion and Key Takeaways40:02 Understanding System Failures in Cultivation44:47 The Importance of Respecting Pests48:35 Challenges in Integrated Pest Management57:34 Success Stories in Pest Management01:03:46 Effective Strategies Against Common Pests01:17:31 Advice for New Growers01:21:44 Addressing Industry Challenges and Ego01:23:51 Perception and Branding in Cannabis01:25:58 Market Dynamics and Consumer Expectations01:29:42 The Role of Experience in Product Perception01:31:45 Understanding Cultivation Challenges01:38:53 The Future of Agriculture and Technology01:48:07 Data-Driven Approaches in Pest Management01:49:37 Personal Reflections on Cultivation and Experience