Genetics, Facility Design & Regulations Shaping Modern Cultivation

In this episode of Grow Sessions, Mark Doherty sits down with Josh Turner of Yellowhammer Genetics to explore how genetics, facility design, and evolving regulations are shaping modern cultivation.With a background in organic farming, Josh shares how regenerative techniques can improve plant health and efficiency—and why these methods are often difficult to scale in commercial cultivation environments. The discussion highlights the shift from legacy growing practices to highly controlled, data-driven systems built for consistency and performance.The conversation also dives into facility design, emphasizing how lighting, HVAC, and irrigation must work together to create a balanced, high-performing environment. Josh explains how growers can optimize outputs by aligning environmental control with plant genetics.On the genetics side, Josh breaks down cannabis chemotypes, the practical limits of THC production, and the role of advanced propagation techniques like tissue culture and embryonic rescue in preserving valuable cultivars.Finally, the episode addresses looming regulatory changes that could significantly impact the cannabis genetics market. Josh outlines why cultivators should act now to secure and protect their genetic libraries—and how a shift toward seed-based production may define the future of the industry.Joshua Turner & Yellowhammer GeneticsJoshua Turner is the founder of Yellowhammer Genetics and a leader in modern cultivation, specializing in high-performance controlled environment facilities and operations. With over two decades of experience, he has built and led teams focused on delivering exceptional results while fostering a culture rooted in integrity, passion, and continuous improvement.Joshua is an accomplished breeder of connoisseur-quality cannabis, with Yellowhammer Genetics earning awards across all major categories and chemotypes (Types I, II, and III). His work spans nearly every legal market in the United States, where he has overseen the breeding, cultivation, and processing of millions of plants.Driven by a deep belief in the plant’s potential, Joshua combines hands-on cultivation expertise with advanced knowledge in genetics, molecular biology, tissue culture, and facility design. His multidisciplinary approach and commitment to lifelong learning continue to shape innovative cultivation strategies and push the industry forward.If you would like to learn more about Joshua Turner and Yellowhammer Genetics visit www.yellowhammergenetics.com or visit Linkedin:  www.linkedin.com/in/joshturneryhg/Mark Doherty, Doherty AgMark Doherty is the VP of Construction & Facilities Management for Grown Rogue, bringing over 15 years of experience in CEA and commercial cannabis cultivation. Throughout his career, he has led operations and facility development across multiple national brands, including roles as COO at Dual Draft Integrated Airflow, Exec. VP at urban-gro, and VP of Facilities Management at Vireo Growth.Through his firm Doherty Agriculture, Mark focuses on turning underperforming cultivation assets using his signature People, Plants, Profits framework—treating each facility as a living, breathing machine to drive efficiency, consistency, and profitability. He is known for combining deep technical expertise with practical leadership to elevate both.If you’d like to connect with Mark, please email him at [email protected] for listening. Be sure to subscribe to our podcast to receive upcoming episodes.