Published on 01/09/2026
In 2022, Cultivators, Vertify and World Horti Center launched Cultivation for Compounds with a shared ambition: to advance the cultivation of consistent, reliable and high-quality medicinal cannabis.
Over the course of four years, the consortium brought together growers, researchers and technology providers to examine the entire production chain. Practical greenhouse trials explored how genetics, lighting, climate, irrigation, nutrition, crop protection and post-harvest processes collectively influence crop performance, compound profiles and final product quality.
Now, the programme is ready for its next chapter.
The first phase of Cultivation for Compounds created more than research results. It established a collaborative platform where knowledge could be exchanged across the medicinal cannabis and horticultural industries.
Insights from the programme were shared through workshops, presentations, partner articles, guided research visits and international events. At World Horti Center, the dedicated Cultivation for Compounds theme square introduced visitors from around the world to the technologies, expertise and processes behind professional medicinal cannabis production.
Beginning in September 2026, the new two-year programme will investigate how cultivation strategies and greenhouse technologies can work together to support greater consistency, efficiency and product quality. The crop will be approached as one connected system, recognising that every decision, from genetics and root-zone management to climate control, harvesting and processing, can influence the final outcome.
Each cultivation cycle will give partners an opportunity to test, demonstrate and further develop their solutions in a professional greenhouse environment. Supported by crop monitoring and laboratory analysis, the trials will generate insights with practical value for growers, researchers and technology providers.
Joining the project team for the next phase is Cassi Aluf, representing Cultivators as Project Manager. She will work alongside Sergio Harinck of Vertify to support the participating partners and coordinate the programme’s upcoming trials. Over the past year, Cassi has immersed herself in the findings and practical insights generated during the programme’s first four years, providing a strong foundation for her contribution to its next chapter.
With a background in Horticulture and Business Management, specialising in Applied Plant Research, she combines scientific knowledge with practical understanding and an industry-focused perspective. Her interest in integrated pest management and plant-insect interactions was developed through a research and development internship at Biobest, a minor in Ecosystem Services of Insects at Wageningen University & Research, and her thesis investigating thrips resistance in chrysanthemum cultivars. This experience brings valuable knowledge of biological control, pest resistance and crop health to the consortium, important elements in achieving consistent, sustainable and high-quality medicinal cannabis production.
Collaborating closely with participating companies and research partners, Cassi will link their expertise, organise well-structured trials, and guarantee that the knowledge produced offers tangible benefits to the industry. In her words, “I am excited to work alongside such a diverse group of horticultural and medicinal cannabis professionals. By combining the lessons of the past four years with the knowledge, technologies and ambitions of our partners, we have a real opportunity to move the industry forward.”
Cultivation for Compounds 2.0 is managed by Cultivators, Vertify and World Horti Centre. Together, they provide a platform where research, technology and industry experience come together across the complete cultivation and post-harvest chain.
This year the Consortium is welcoming new partners. Companies involved in plant material, lighting, climate control, irrigation, growing media, nutrition, crop protection, sensors, harvesting, processing or analytical testing are invited to contribute their expertise and help shape the next phase.
For participating organisations, Cultivation for Compounds 2.0 offers more than a place to test a product. It is an opportunity to demonstrate technology, learn alongside industry specialists, build valuable connections and contribute directly to the future of professional medicinal cannabis cultivation.
Four years of research laid the foundation. Cultivation for Compounds 2.0 will turn that knowledge into progress.
Interested in becoming part of the next phase? Connect with Cultivators, Vertify or World Horti Center to explore how your organisation can contribute.
Stay tuned as we introduce the participating partners, take you behind the scenes and share the first developments from the greenhouse.