Sungrown

Sun-grown refers to crops cultivated outdoors under natural sunlight rather than under artificial lighting or controlled indoor conditions. The term is widely used in agriculture and is particularly common in the cannabis industry, where it is employed to distinguish outdoor or sunlight-exposed growth from indoor or greenhouse production. While the concept originated with cannabis marketing, it can apply to a broad range of crops grown in open fields or other sun-exposed environments.

Cultivation of sun-grown crops relies on natural photoperiods, weather, soil quality, and available water. Growers manage irrigation, soil fertility, pest and disease control, and harvest timing with less artificial climate control than indoors. In crops such as cannabis and some fruits or vegetables, flowering or maturity is driven by seasonal sun exposure, making local climate a critical factor in yield and quality. Sun-grown production can vary significantly by location and year, reflecting differences in temperature, rainfall, and sunlight hours.

Advantages of sun-grown methods often include lower energy costs, reduced capital investment, and a smaller environmental footprint compared with indoor operations. Some producers and consumers associate sun-grown products with distinctive flavor, aroma, or terroir resulting from natural sunlight and field conditions. Additionally, sun-grown systems can support rural economies and utilize land that cannot be profitably used for indoors operations.

Disadvantages include less environmental and process control, greater exposure to weather and pests, and potential variability in yield and quality. Local climate and extreme weather events can constrain production and complicate quality standards, requiring careful site selection and risk management.