How many leaves are on a pot leaf? Unveiling the secrets of cannabis foliage.

How many leaves are on a pot leaf? It’s a question that sparks curiosity, isn’t it? Imagine a verdant world where the cannabis plant stands tall, a botanical marvel with leaves that whisper tales of genetics, environment, and the very essence of life. This isn’t just about counting; it’s about embarking on a journey into the heart of a plant, where each leaf holds a story, a testament to the intricate dance between nature and nurture.

From the broad, fan-like leaves that capture sunlight to the smaller, sugar-coated leaves that embrace the buds, every element plays a crucial role. We’ll delve into the fascinating world of leaf arrangement, exploring the distinctions between leaf types and understanding their individual functions. We’ll also examine the intricate factors that dictate leaf size and number, from the plant’s unique genetic blueprint to the environmental conditions that shape its destiny.

Prepare to be amazed as we unravel the secrets behind the leaves of the cannabis plant.

Exploring the botanical characteristics of the cannabis plant is essential for understanding its leaf structure

Understanding the anatomy of the cannabis plant is key to appreciating its complex nature and the role its different parts play. The leaves, in particular, are vital for photosynthesis, the process by which the plant converts light energy into chemical energy to fuel its growth. A closer look at these leaves reveals fascinating variations in structure, size, and function, all contributing to the plant’s overall health and the quality of its yield.

Leaf Arrangement and Types

The leaves of a cannabis plant are arranged in a specific pattern, primarily to maximize light absorption. They typically exhibit an opposite or alternate phyllotaxy, meaning leaves grow directly across from each other or in a staggered pattern along the stem. The primary leaf types are fan leaves and sugar leaves, each with distinct characteristics and roles.Fan leaves are the large, iconic leaves that characterize the cannabis plant.

These leaves are responsible for the bulk of photosynthesis, capturing sunlight and converting it into energy. They are generally large, with broad leaflets radiating from a central point, resembling a hand. The number of leaflets can vary depending on the strain, but typically ranges from 5 to 13, sometimes even more. Their primary function is to provide the plant with the energy it needs to grow.

Visually, fan leaves are often a vibrant green, though their color can vary depending on factors like nutrient availability and light exposure. They also serve as a crucial indicator of the plant’s health; any discoloration, wilting, or other abnormalities can signal issues such as nutrient deficiencies or disease.Sugar leaves, on the other hand, are smaller leaves that grow closer to the buds, or flowers, of the cannabis plant.

They are named for the copious trichomes, or resin glands, that cover their surface, giving them a sugary appearance. Unlike fan leaves, sugar leaves do not play a significant role in photosynthesis. Their primary function is to protect the developing buds and to contain a high concentration of cannabinoids and terpenes. Visually, sugar leaves are typically smaller than fan leaves and often have a lighter green color, sometimes even appearing yellowish or purplish depending on the strain.

The high trichome coverage on sugar leaves makes them a valuable part of the harvest, often used for making concentrates or other cannabis products.

Factors Influencing Leaf Size and Number

Leaf size and number are not fixed traits; they are significantly influenced by a variety of factors. These factors can determine the plant’s overall health, yield, and cannabinoid content.Genetics is a fundamental determinant. Different cannabis strains have different genetic predispositions for leaf size, shape, and number. Some strains naturally produce larger fan leaves with more leaflets, while others may have smaller, more compact leaves.

The genetic makeup also influences the density of trichomes on sugar leaves and the overall production of cannabinoids and terpenes. For example, some strains, such as certain Kush varieties, are known for their dense, trichome-covered sugar leaves, while others may have fewer trichomes.Environmental conditions also play a crucial role. Light intensity is a major factor; plants grown in environments with higher light intensity often develop larger leaves to maximize light absorption.

Nutrient availability is another critical factor. Deficiencies in essential nutrients, such as nitrogen or phosphorus, can lead to stunted leaf growth, discoloration, and reduced overall plant vigor. Conversely, excessive nutrient levels can also negatively impact leaf development, leading to issues like nutrient burn. Temperature and humidity also have an impact; optimal conditions promote healthy leaf growth, while extreme temperatures or humidity levels can stress the plant and affect leaf size and number.The plant’s growth stage also influences leaf characteristics.

During the vegetative stage, when the plant is focused on growth, fan leaves tend to be larger and more numerous. As the plant transitions to the flowering stage, the focus shifts to bud development, and the number of fan leaves may decrease while the production of sugar leaves increases. The size of the sugar leaves is also influenced by the flowering stage; they typically become more prominent and resinous as the buds mature.

Visual Comparison: Fan Leaves vs. Sugar Leaves

The following table provides a clear visual comparison of the key characteristics of fan leaves and sugar leaves:

Feature	Fan Leaves	Sugar Leaves	Details
Size	Large, broad leaflets	Small, often close to buds	Fan leaves can measure several inches across, while sugar leaves are usually much smaller.
Trichome Coverage	Low to moderate	High, giving a “sugary” appearance	Fan leaves may have some trichomes, but sugar leaves are densely covered, making them ideal for concentrate production.
Primary Function	Photosynthesis	Protect buds, cannabinoid and terpene storage	Fan leaves are the plant’s primary energy producers, while sugar leaves protect the buds and contribute to the plant’s aroma and effects.
Color	Typically vibrant green	Lighter green, often with trichome-induced coloration (yellow, purple)	Color variations can indicate health, strain, and environmental factors.

Examining the influence of plant genetics on the number of leaves reveals a complex relationship

The number of leaves adorning a cannabis plant isn’t simply a matter of chance; it’s a direct reflection of its genetic blueprint. Just as human traits like eye color and height are determined by our DNA, the leaf count, density, and overall structure of a cannabis plant are heavily influenced by its genetic makeup. This intricate interplay between genes and environment dictates the plant’s morphology, impacting its growth patterns and, ultimately, its yield.

Genetic Influence on Leaf Production

The genetic makeup of a cannabis strain plays a significant role in the number of leaves it produces. Different cultivars, or strains, exhibit remarkable variations in leaf production, stemming from the specific genes inherited from their parent plants. Some strains are naturally predisposed to producing a higher number of leaves, resulting in a bushier appearance, while others are more streamlined, with fewer leaves.These variations are rooted in the complex interplay of genes responsible for:

• Leaf Primordia Development: Genes regulating the formation of leaf primordia, the precursors to leaves, in the plant’s growing tips. More active genes here lead to a higher initial leaf count.
• Cell Division and Expansion: Genes that influence cell division and expansion within the leaves themselves. Strains with genes promoting greater cell growth will often have larger, more robust leaves.
• Hormonal Regulation: The balance of plant hormones, such as auxins and cytokinins, also impacts leaf development. These hormones coordinate cell growth and differentiation, thus influencing leaf number and size.

Breeders utilize selective breeding techniques to manipulate these genetic factors. By carefully choosing parent plants with desirable traits, such as a specific leaf density or a high leaf count, they can gradually enhance these characteristics in subsequent generations. This process involves:

1. Identifying Desired Traits: Breeders begin by identifying the specific traits they want to enhance, like increased leaf density for potential yield benefits or a particular leaf shape for aesthetic appeal.
2. Selecting Parent Plants: They then select parent plants that exhibit these desired traits. This might involve visually inspecting plants, analyzing their growth patterns, or even performing genetic testing.
3. Controlled Pollination: Controlled pollination is crucial. Breeders carefully cross-pollinate the selected parent plants, ensuring the desired genes are passed on.
4. Evaluating Offspring: The offspring are then evaluated for the expression of the desired traits. Plants that best exhibit the desired characteristics are selected for further breeding.
5. Repeated Selection: This process is repeated over multiple generations, gradually increasing the frequency of the desired genes within the population.

Leaf Density, Plant Health, and Yield

Leaf density, the amount of leaf material per unit of plant volume, is a crucial factor in both plant health and yield. High leaf density, often associated with strains that produce a large number of leaves, can create a denser canopy, which can, in turn, influence light penetration, airflow, and overall plant health. Conversely, low leaf density might suggest a less robust plant.The genetic makeup of different cultivars strongly influences leaf density.

Strains with genes that promote rapid leaf production and dense branching tend to exhibit higher leaf density. This can be beneficial in terms of potential yield, as more leaves equate to more surface area for photosynthesis, which is the process that allows the plant to convert light into energy. However, extremely high leaf density can also lead to challenges:

• Reduced Airflow: A dense canopy can restrict airflow, increasing the risk of fungal diseases.
• Light Penetration: Limited light penetration to lower leaves can reduce photosynthetic efficiency in those areas.

Breeders strive for an optimal leaf density, balancing the potential for increased yield with the need for good airflow and light penetration.

Visual Representation of Leaf Density

Let’s imagine three distinct cannabis strains: ‘Green Giant’, ‘Emerald Delight’, and ‘Silver Streak’.
Green Giant, a strain known for its robust growth, might be represented by a diagram showing a densely packed plant with numerous large leaves. The leaves would be illustrated close together, with minimal space between them, suggesting high leaf density. The diagram might include a brief description stating “High Leaf Density: Promotes robust growth and potential yield, but requires careful management of airflow and light.”
Emerald Delight, a strain with a moderate growth pattern, would be depicted with a plant that has a moderate number of leaves, spaced more evenly throughout the plant.

The leaves would be of average size, with some space between them, indicating a balanced leaf density. The accompanying text would read, “Moderate Leaf Density: Provides a balance between light penetration and airflow, contributing to overall plant health.”
Silver Streak, a strain known for its airy structure, would be illustrated with a plant that has fewer leaves, with significant spacing between them.

The leaves would appear smaller and more delicate, suggesting low leaf density. The description would say, “Low Leaf Density: Allows for excellent airflow and light penetration, but may result in slightly lower overall yield.”This visual representation underscores the genetic influence on leaf density, highlighting the diversity among cannabis strains and the importance of understanding these differences for successful cultivation.

Uncovering the impact of environmental factors on the number of leaves helps understand plant development: How Many Leaves Are On A Pot Leaf

The number of leaves on a cannabis plant, while seemingly a simple metric, is a dynamic reflection of its interaction with its environment. Understanding this interplay is crucial for optimizing plant health, yield, and overall quality. Environmental factors act as both catalysts and constraints, dictating the plant’s development and, consequently, its leaf production. These factors influence not only the total leaf count but also the size, shape, and even the cannabinoid and terpene profiles of the plant.

Environmental Influences on Leaf Development

The environment surrounding a cannabis plant is a complex ecosystem that profoundly influences its leaf development. Light intensity, nutrient availability, and temperature are key players in this intricate dance. Each factor, when optimized, can lead to robust leaf production and a thriving plant. Conversely, suboptimal conditions can trigger stress responses, impacting leaf characteristics and overall plant health.Light intensity, for instance, serves as the primary energy source for photosynthesis, the engine that drives leaf development.

Higher light intensity generally encourages greater leaf production, provided other factors are in balance. Think of a sunny day versus a cloudy one; the sunny day provides more energy for the leaves to produce sugars. However, excessive light can lead to photoinhibition, where the photosynthetic machinery becomes overwhelmed, causing leaf damage and potentially reducing leaf count.Nutrient availability is equally critical.

Cannabis plants require a balanced diet of essential macronutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium) and micronutrients (iron, magnesium, etc.) to fuel leaf growth. A deficiency in any one of these nutrients can stunt leaf development, leading to smaller leaves, chlorosis (yellowing of the leaves), and a reduced overall leaf count. For example, a nitrogen deficiency can manifest as yellowing of older leaves, while a phosphorus deficiency might result in stunted growth and purple coloration on stems and leaves.

Conversely, over-fertilization can lead to nutrient burn, damaging leaf tissues and reducing leaf surface area.Temperature also plays a significant role. Cannabis plants thrive within a specific temperature range. High temperatures can stress the plant, leading to wilting, reduced photosynthesis, and ultimately, a decrease in leaf production. Low temperatures, especially those near freezing, can cause frost damage, leading to cell death and the loss of leaves.

The ideal temperature range allows the plant’s metabolic processes to function efficiently, supporting optimal leaf growth.Specific environmental stressors can have a detrimental effect. For instance, drought stress, caused by insufficient water availability, triggers the plant to conserve resources, leading to reduced leaf size and potentially leaf drop (abscission). This is a survival mechanism, as the plant sacrifices leaves to reduce water loss through transpiration.

Pests and diseases also exert significant stress. Infestations by spider mites, for example, can damage leaf tissues, reducing photosynthetic capacity and leaf count. Similarly, fungal diseases like powdery mildew can cover leaves, inhibiting photosynthesis and causing leaf death. The plant responds to these adverse conditions by altering leaf characteristics. It might produce smaller leaves to conserve resources, change the angle of its leaves to minimize light exposure, or allocate resources to defense mechanisms rather than leaf production.The effects of environmental stressors on leaf production and characteristics can be summarized as follows:

• Light Stress: Excessive light can lead to bleaching of the leaves (chlorosis or even complete whitening), reduced leaf size, and decreased leaf count.
• Nutrient Deficiency: Deficiencies in essential nutrients can cause stunted growth, chlorosis (yellowing), necrosis (tissue death), and reduced leaf size, impacting the overall leaf count.
• Water Stress (Drought): Insufficient water can lead to wilting, reduced leaf size, and leaf drop (abscission) to conserve water.
• Temperature Stress (Heat): High temperatures can cause wilting, reduced photosynthetic rates, and potentially leaf drop.
• Temperature Stress (Cold): Low temperatures can cause frost damage, cell death, and leaf loss.
• Pest Infestations: Pests like spider mites or aphids can damage leaf tissues, reducing photosynthetic capacity and leaf count.
• Disease: Fungal diseases like powdery mildew can cover leaves, inhibiting photosynthesis and causing leaf death.

Optimizing environmental conditions is crucial for maximizing leaf production in cannabis plants. The following bulleted list Artikels the ideal parameters for each factor, along with the desired outcomes:

• Light Intensity:
  • Parameter: For vegetative growth, 400-600 PPFD (Photosynthetic Photon Flux Density) measured at the canopy level. For flowering, 600-800 PPFD.
  • Outcome: Robust leaf growth, increased photosynthetic efficiency, and overall plant vigor.
• Nutrient Availability:
  • Parameter: A balanced nutrient solution tailored to the plant’s growth stage, including essential macronutrients (N, P, K) and micronutrients. Monitor pH and EC (Electrical Conductivity) of the nutrient solution.
  • Outcome: Healthy leaf color, optimal leaf size, and prevention of nutrient deficiencies.
• Temperature:
  • Parameter: During vegetative growth, maintain a temperature range of 70-80°F (21-27°C) during the day and slightly cooler at night. For flowering, maintain a temperature range of 68-78°F (20-26°C).
  • Outcome: Optimal metabolic activity, efficient photosynthesis, and reduced stress.
• Humidity:
  • Parameter: Maintain a relative humidity of 60-70% during vegetative growth and 40-50% during flowering.
  • Outcome: Reduced risk of fungal diseases and optimal transpiration rates.
• Watering:
  • Parameter: Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry, avoiding overwatering or underwatering.
  • Outcome: Healthy root development, optimal nutrient uptake, and prevention of water stress.
• Air Circulation:
  • Parameter: Provide adequate air circulation using fans to prevent stagnant air and reduce the risk of pests and diseases.
  • Outcome: Strong stems, healthy leaves, and reduced risk of fungal infections.

Considering the impact of plant growth stages on leaf development provides further insights

The life cycle of a cannabis plant, from a tiny seed to a mature, flowering beauty, is a fascinating journey. Each stage, from the initial sprout to the final harvest, is marked by distinct changes in the plant’s structure, including the development and proliferation of leaves. Understanding how these growth phases influence leaf production is key to successful cultivation and appreciation of this remarkable plant.

Leaf Production Across Growth Stages

The number of leaves on a cannabis plant is not static; it changes dramatically throughout its life. This change is directly linked to the plant’s growth stage and the environmental conditions it experiences.

• Seedling Stage: This is the plant’s infancy, typically lasting from germination to the appearance of the first true leaves (usually 2-3 sets of leaflets). During this time, the plant focuses on establishing a strong root system and developing its initial leaves, which are typically single-fingered. The leaf count is low, ranging from a few to a dozen leaves.
• Vegetative Stage: This is a period of rapid growth. The plant focuses on developing its stem, branches, and, most notably, a large number of leaves. New leaves emerge at the nodes, increasing the overall leaf count exponentially. The number of leaflets per leaf also increases, progressing from single-fingered leaves to the characteristic multi-fingered leaves. The vegetative stage can last for weeks or months, depending on the grower’s preference and environmental factors.

  A healthy plant can produce hundreds of leaves during this phase.

• Flowering Stage: As the plant transitions to flowering, leaf production slows down, and the plant’s energy is redirected towards bud development. The existing leaves continue to support the plant through photosynthesis, but new leaf growth is significantly reduced. Some leaves may even begin to yellow and fall off as the plant ages and the lower leaves are shaded. The number of leaves generally plateaus or increases slightly in the early flowering phase, but the focus shifts from leaf production to bud development.

Leaf Production Rates and Patterns: Vegetative vs. Flowering

The difference in leaf production between the vegetative and flowering stages is a crucial distinction. In the vegetative phase, the plant prioritizes rapid growth and expansion, which is clearly visible in the leaf production rates.

• Vegetative Stage: The plant generates leaves at a high rate. The growth is vigorous, and the leaves are typically large, with many leaflets. The nodes are closely spaced, creating a dense canopy. The plant’s focus is on maximizing surface area for photosynthesis, allowing it to capture as much sunlight as possible.
• Flowering Stage: Leaf production slows down dramatically. The plant directs its energy toward flower (bud) development. The leaves that are produced during the flowering stage are generally smaller and less numerous. The spacing between the nodes becomes more pronounced. This change in leaf characteristics is a visual indicator that the plant is transitioning into the reproductive phase.

Timeline of Leaf Development

The leaf development process can be visualized through a timeline, showing key milestones and the approximate number of leaves at each stage.

Imagine a timeline starting from the moment the seed sprouts.

At the beginning, a small, single-fingered leaf emerges from the seed, which contains a cotyledon (seed leaf). As the seedling establishes, it develops the first set of true leaves, typically with 2-3 leaflets, followed by more sets.

As the plant enters the vegetative stage, it quickly develops a robust root system. The plant focuses on building its stem, branches, and leaves. New leaves emerge rapidly, with the number of leaflets per leaf increasing, and the number of leaves increasing rapidly, with each leaf becoming more complex.

As the plant transitions into the flowering stage, the leaf production slows down. The plant is now concentrating on bud development. The leaves that are produced during the flowering stage are generally smaller and less numerous.

This process continues until the plant is harvested.

Investigating the methods used to count leaves on a cannabis plant reveals challenges and techniques

Counting the leaves on a cannabis plant isn’t as simple as it might seem. The plant’s structure, the density of foliage, and the sheer number of leaves can make this a surprisingly complex task. However, understanding how to approach this can provide valuable insights into plant health, growth patterns, and overall development. Let’s delve into the various methods employed and the hurdles one might encounter when attempting this botanical census.

Manual Counting and Visual Estimation, How many leaves are on a pot leaf

Manual counting is, in essence, the old-fashioned way: a person painstakingly counting each leaf. Visual estimation, on the other hand, involves making an educated guess based on a sample count and overall observation.

• Manual Counting: This method involves physically examining the plant and ticking off each leaf as it’s counted.
• Pros: It’s potentially the most accurate method, especially for smaller plants or specific sections. It provides a direct count.
• Cons: This is incredibly time-consuming and labor-intensive, particularly for mature plants with dense foliage. The potential for human error is high due to fatigue or miscounting.
• Visual Estimation: This involves choosing a representative section of the plant, counting the leaves within that section, and then extrapolating to the entire plant.
• Pros: Faster than manual counting. It offers a reasonable approximation, particularly if the plant’s structure is relatively uniform.
• Cons: Accuracy is highly dependent on the observer’s experience and the uniformity of the plant. It’s prone to significant errors, especially if the plant has variations in leaf density across different areas.

Image Analysis and Other Techniques

The advancement of technology offers alternative approaches, utilizing digital imagery and specialized software to automate the counting process.

• Image Analysis: This involves taking photographs or using digital scans of the plant and employing software to identify and count individual leaves.
• Pros: Potentially much faster and more accurate than manual methods, especially with advanced image processing algorithms. It can provide detailed data on leaf size, shape, and distribution.
• Cons: Requires specialized equipment (camera, scanner) and software. The accuracy depends on the quality of the images and the sophistication of the software. Overlapping leaves, shadows, and variations in lighting can introduce errors.
• Other Techniques: Some researchers might use techniques such as destructive sampling (removing and counting leaves from a portion of the plant) or tagging leaves as they emerge to track their development over time.
• Pros: Destructive sampling can provide highly accurate data for the sampled portion. Tagging offers precise tracking of individual leaf development.
• Cons: Destructive sampling is, well, destructive and not suitable for preserving the plant. Tagging can be time-consuming and may affect the plant’s growth.

Simplified Estimation Procedure

Here’s a simplified method for estimating the number of leaves on a mature cannabis plant, combining visual estimation and sampling.

1. Preparation: Gather your tools: a notebook, a pen or pencil, and potentially a measuring tape (optional). Choose a well-lit day to work, and if the plant is indoors, ensure good lighting.
2. Sectioning: Mentally divide the plant into several sections (e.g., top, middle, bottom, and perhaps left and right sides).
3. Sampling: Select a small, representative branch or section within each area. Count the leaves on each of these sampled branches. Aim for sections that are relatively easy to access and that provide a good average representation of the overall leaf density.
4. Estimation:
   • Measure the length of the selected branch.
   • Measure the total length of the branches in each of the plant sections.
   • Calculate the ratio of the branch length to the total branch length of the plant section.
   • Multiply the number of leaves counted on the selected branch by the ratio obtained.
   • Add the leaf counts from each section to arrive at an estimated total for the entire plant.

   Estimated Total Leaves = (Leaf Count Section 1

   • Ratio Section 1) + (Leaf Count Section 2
   • Ratio Section 2) + …

5. Refinement: Repeat the sampling process in multiple areas, calculating the average leaf count per section for improved accuracy.
6. Documentation: Record your counts, measurements, and calculations in your notebook. Note any observations about the plant’s health, leaf size, or any unusual features.

Accuracy in this method relies on the representativeness of your sample branches. Remember, this is an estimation, not an exact count. Factors like leaf size, plant density, and the overall plant structure will influence your results. For example, a plant with a significant difference in leaf density between the top and bottom sections will require more careful sampling and potentially a more complex calculation to arrive at a reasonable estimate.

Addressing the practical implications of leaf count for cannabis cultivation offers valuable knowledge

The number of leaves on a cannabis plant, while seemingly a simple metric, is a surprisingly insightful indicator for cultivators. It provides a window into the plant’s overall health, its potential yield, and the effectiveness of current management practices. Understanding the significance of leaf count allows growers to proactively address issues and optimize their cultivation strategies for superior results.

Leaf Count as an Indicator of Plant Health

Leaf count directly correlates with plant vigor and can serve as an early warning system for potential problems. Observing the number and condition of leaves allows cultivators to gauge the plant’s response to its environment and identify any signs of distress.

• Nutrient Deficiencies: A deficiency in essential nutrients, like nitrogen, phosphorus, or potassium, often manifests in specific leaf symptoms. For instance, a lack of nitrogen can cause older leaves to turn yellow and eventually fall off, leading to a reduced leaf count. Phosphorus deficiency might result in stunted growth and a lower overall number of leaves.
• Environmental Stress: Extreme temperatures, insufficient or excessive watering, and inadequate light exposure can all impact leaf development. Heat stress can cause leaves to wilt or curl, while overwatering might lead to yellowing and leaf drop. Insufficient light can result in fewer leaves and smaller leaf size.
• Pest Infestations and Diseases: The presence of pests or diseases can also significantly affect leaf count. Insect infestations can lead to leaf damage, reducing the number of functional leaves. Fungal diseases can cause spots, discoloration, and ultimately, leaf loss.

Managing Leaf Production for Optimal Results

Experienced cannabis cultivators have developed strategies to manage leaf production effectively. These practices aim to maintain a healthy leaf canopy that supports robust growth and maximizes yield.

“Regularly monitor your plants for any signs of stress. Early detection of nutrient deficiencies or environmental issues can prevent significant leaf loss and ensure optimal plant development.”

*Experienced Cannabis Cultivator*

“Provide adequate lighting and ventilation to promote healthy leaf growth. Ensure that your plants receive sufficient light and air circulation to prevent stress and disease.”

*Veteran Grower*

“Implement proper pruning techniques to optimize light penetration and airflow within the canopy. Strategic pruning can help manage leaf density and improve overall plant health.”

*Master Cultivator*

“Maintain a balanced nutrient regime and adjust your feeding schedule as needed. Monitor the pH levels of your growing medium and nutrient solutions to ensure optimal nutrient uptake.”

*Seasoned Grower*