A new study published in Frontiers in Plant Science found that certain biostimulant blends may significantly increase cannabis flower yield while also altering terpene profiles and other quality-related traits.
Researchers from Monash University and RMIT University compared two biostimulant complexes in a randomized controlled trial using cannabis grown in an environmentally controlled hydroponic system.
The first complex, referred to as BC1, included molasses, Aloe vera extract and fish hydrolysate. The second, BC2, included galactooligosaccharides, Aloe vera extract and triacontanol. Galactooligosaccharides were described by researchers as a potential “plant prebiotic” because of their ability to selectively stimulate beneficial microbes.
Both treatments increased yield, but BC2 produced the strongest results. According to the study, BC1 increased yield by 1.17-fold, while BC2 increased yield by 2.22-fold. BC2 also increased flower size by 1.28-fold.
Researchers found that neither treatment substantially changed flower color, but both appeared to influence flower chemistry. Near-infrared analysis showed that both treatments increased primary amines and methyl-containing hydrocarbons, while BC2 also increased aromatic hydrocarbons.
The treatments also altered terpene profiles. BC1 increased compounds including α-terpinolene, borneol, terpineol and valencene. BC2 increased several terpenes, including α-humulene, α-phellandrene, α-terpinene, β-caryophyllene, guaiol, limonene and ocimene, while also increasing total terpene content.
Researchers said the terpene changes suggest BC1 may be associated with stronger relaxing effects, while BC2 may be linked to increased anti-inflammatory effects. Odor prediction also indicated potential shifts in flower aroma profiles, which the authors said could improve consumer perceptions of quality and value.
In their conclusion, researchers said that while both treatments improved flower yield, “BC2 provided broader benefits, including increased flower size, increased terpene content, and enhanced odour properties.” They said the stronger performance of BC2 highlights the potential value of galactooligosaccharides, Aloe vera extract and triacontanol as biostimulant fertigation supplements for cannabis cultivation.
The study concludes that adopting biostimulants such as these may give cultivators targeted strategies to increase crop value, while noting that future research should examine the underlying mechanisms, including microbial activity, stress markers, gene expression, direct sensory testing and results across additional cultivars and growing conditions.
