Recent research has unveiled that the complex and distinct aromas of Cannabis sativa L. strains are not solely defined by traditional terpenes but are significantly influenced by minor, nonterpenoid volatile compounds, including volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs) and skatole (3-methylindole). This insight opens new doors for growers aiming to enhance the aromatic profiles of their crops.
At Drip Hydro, we formulate our nutrient solutions with a focus on bioavailability and precision feeding, ensuring plants have access to the essential elements required for optimizing secondary metabolite production—including the volatile compounds responsible for your plant’s aroma.
Key Nutrients in Drip Hydro That Influence Aroma-Defining Compounds
Each stage of plant development requires specific nutrients to drive biochemical pathways responsible for aromatic compound synthesis. Here’s how our FLUID and POWDER lines contribute to the production of these minor yet impactful compounds:
1. Sulfur (S) – A Critical Driver of Volatile Sulfur Compounds (VSCs)
VSCs have been identified as key contributors to the pungent, skunky, or savory scents in Cannabis sativa L.
- Powder B & Powder C: Rich in sulfur (13.1% and 7.28% respectively), ensuring plants receive adequate sulfur for VSC production.
- Base B (FLUID line): Contains sulfur to support amino acid synthesis, influencing the enzymatic pathways that create VSCs.
2. Nitrogen (N) – Supports the Formation of Skatole (3-Methylindole)
Skatole, an aromatic compound found in certain Cannabis sativa L. strains, is derived from the amino acid tryptophan, which requires a steady supply of nitrogen.
- Base A (5-0-2 FLUID line): Provides nitrate nitrogen, an efficient form that promotes amino acid production without excessive vegetative growth.
- Powder A: Contains 15% nitrate nitrogen, ensuring a steady release of nitrogen, supporting plant metabolism and protein synthesis.
3. Magnesium (Mg) – Essential for Chlorophyll & Metabolic Pathways
Magnesium plays a pivotal role in terpene and volatile compound synthesis by activating enzymes involved in secondary metabolism.
- CaMg (FLUID line): Provides highly bioavailable magnesium, supporting the production of aromatic compounds.
- Powder B & Powder C: Offer magnesium to improve photosynthetic efficiency, leading to stronger terpene and VSC production.
4. Micronutrients (Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu, B, Mo) – Catalysts for Aroma Development
The synthesis of minor volatile compounds depends on enzyme activation, which is facilitated by micronutrients.
- Iron (Fe) & Manganese (Mn): Found in Base A (FLUID) and Powder D (POWDER line), these elements activate metabolic pathways that convert precursor compounds into aroma-enhancing molecules.
- Zinc (Zn) & Copper (Cu): Critical for hormone regulation and stress response, Powder D provides chelated forms of these elements for enhanced bioavailability.
- Boron (B): Essential for cell wall integrity and enzymatic function, helping to regulate the synthesis of key aromatic volatiles.
5. Phosphorus (P) & Potassium (K) – Fueling Energy Transfer & Terpene Synthesis
Phosphorus supports ATP production, which powers enzymatic reactions needed for secondary metabolite synthesis.
- Flex (0-10-10 FLUID line): Provides highly bioavailable phosphorus and potassium, ensuring that energy-intensive aroma synthesis processes function optimally.
- Powder C: Contains 32% phosphorus and 32% potassium, aiding in the efficient production and storage of volatile compounds.
Enhancing Aroma Through Precision Feeding
By utilizing Drip Hydro’s FLUID or POWDER line, growers can fine-tune their nutrient regimen to maximize terpene expression and volatile sulfur compound production. Key recommendations include:
- Early Vegetative Phase: Use Base A & Base B or Powder A & Powder B to provide nitrogen and sulfur for amino acid formation.
- Late Vegetative Phase: Increase magnesium and micronutrient supplementation (CaMg, Powder D) to enhance chlorophyll production and metabolic efficiency.
- Flowering Phase: Shift focus to Flex (FLUID) or Powder C, ensuring phosphorus and potassium drive secondary metabolite synthesis while sulfur availability supports VSC production.
Final Thoughts: The Science-Driven Approach to Aroma-Rich Plants
This new research confirms that aroma enhancement goes beyond terpenes—it’s about balancing secondary metabolites with essential nutrients. Drip Hydro’s clean, bioavailable, and highly effective formulations provide cultivators with the precise elements needed to push aromatic potential to new heights.
Whether you’re running FLUIDS or POWDERS, our nutrients are scientifically formulated to enhance your plant’s aroma, potency, and overall quality. Optimize your feeding regimen with Drip Hydro and experience the true depth of your strains’ terpene and volatile compound expression.
Explore Our Product Line for Enhanced Aroma Development
Ready to elevate your grow? Check out our feeding schedules and see how Drip Hydro’s FLUID & POWDER lines can enhance the aromatic complexity of your strains.
References:
“Minor, Nonterpenoid Volatile Compounds Drive the Aroma Differences of Exotic Cannabis”
