Grower Glossary – QUpdated 10 days ago
Q
“Q” stands for quality, quantum, and quick response — the fine-tuned balance of control and precision in modern growing. Learn how Q-terms influence everything from lighting to lab analysis.
Quantum Board
An LED grow light design using a flat panel covered with high-efficiency diodes for even light distribution.
Grower Slang: “QB,” “LED board.”
Cronk Tip: Quantum boards deliver powerful PAR with low heat output — ideal for tents or confined grow spaces.
Quantum Efficiency
A measurement of how efficiently a grow light converts electrical energy into usable photons for photosynthesis.
Grower Slang: “Light efficiency.”
Higher efficiency = lower power cost per yield gram.
Quantum Sensor
A device that measures PAR or PPFD light intensity in μmol/m²/s.
Grower Slang: “PAR meter,” “light sensor.”
Cronk Tip: Keep PPFD ~600–800 for veg and ~900–1200 for bloom.
Quarantine (Grow Term)
Isolating new plants, clones, or equipment before introducing them into the main grow area to prevent pests and disease.
Grower Slang: “Q-zone,” “quarantine tent.”
Cronk Tip: Minimum isolation time — 7–14 days; always inspect for mites, thrips, or mold before entry.
Quenching (Photochemical Quenching)
The process by which excess light energy is dissipated as heat in leaves to protect chlorophyll from damage.
Grower Slang: “Light safety,” “leaf heat dump.”
Good airflow and CO₂ supplementation help regulate quenching naturally.
Quick-Dry (Post-Harvest Slang)
A rapid drying method used to test moisture or potency early.
Grower Slang: “Speed dry,” “quick cure.”
Cronk Tip: Quick-drying sacrifices flavor and smoothness — only for testing, not full cures.
Quick Flush
A fast rinse of the root zone with plain, pH-balanced water to clear excess salts.
Grower Slang: “Fast flush.”
Cronk Tip: Ideal before switching from veg to flower or between feed changes.
Quick Root
A rooting gel or cloning additive that accelerates root formation.
Grower Slang: “Root jump.”
Cronk Tip: Keep humidity high (70–80%) and use gentle light during rooting.
Quick Chop (Slang)
Harvesting slightly early, usually for time or space reasons.
Grower Slang: “Early chop.”
Leads to lower yield and terpene development — best avoided unless necessary.
Quality Control (QC)
Testing and maintaining consistency in nutrient mixing, product batches, or final plant quality.
Grower Slang: “QC,” “quality check.”
Cronk Tip: Always monitor pH, EC, and environment to maintain consistent plant performance.
Quality Run
A term used for a well-executed grow cycle with excellent results in yield, flavor, and appearance.
Grower Slang: “Fire run,” “clean run.”
Cronk Tip: Track environment, feed, and training in your grow log — consistency creates quality.
Quarter Strength
A diluted nutrient mix at 25% normal concentration, often used for seedlings or clones.
Grower Slang: “Light feed.”
Cronk Tip: Start early growth at ¼ strength to prevent nutrient shock.
Quaternary Ammonium
A chemical compound found in sanitizers used for cleaning grow rooms and equipment.
Grower Slang: “Quat cleaner.”
Effective against microbes but rinse surfaces well before reintroducing plants.
Quench Point
The saturation point where leaves can no longer process incoming light efficiently.
Grower Slang: “Light max.”
Measure PPFD to avoid overexposure — cannabis quench point averages around 1200–1400 μmol/m²/s.
Quiescent Stage
A temporary resting or inactive phase in plant development, often due to environmental slowdown.
Grower Slang: “Pause phase.”
Occurs under low temps or short light cycles.
Quadline (Training Technique)
A structured pruning and training method that develops four main colas for balanced growth.
Grower Slang: “Quad train,” “four-top.”
Cronk Tip: Combine with LST to maximize canopy uniformity and yield.
Quads (Slang)
Grower slang for top-shelf cannabis — dense, frosty buds with strong aroma and bag appeal.
Grower Slang: “Top shelf,” “fire.”
The highest quality category, above mids or beasters.
Quarter Pound (QP)
A cannabis weight measurement equal to 4 ounces (112 grams).
Grower Slang: “QP,” “quarter piece.”
Common in harvest yield discussions.
Quarantine Chamber
A separate environment or tent used to isolate plants or new genetics.
Grower Slang: “Isolation zone.”
Essential for IPM (Integrated Pest Management).
Quenching Agent
A substance or process that reduces oxidative stress or excess light energy in plants.
Grower Slang: “Stress buffer.”
Common in foliar or silica products to minimize heat/light damage.
Quenching Light Response
The dynamic reaction of chlorophyll to changing light levels to prevent photooxidative stress.
Grower Slang: “Light adaptation.”
Healthy plants manage this automatically under stable environmental control.
Quick Wash (Extraction Term)
A method of extracting cannabinoids using a short solvent soak to preserve terpenes.
Grower Slang: “QWET” (Quick Wash Ethanol Technique).
Used in making clean hash oil or tinctures.