Foundations Series #2: Lean Farming & Efficient Cultivation Systems with Ben Hartman (Originally Episode 20)
This episode is part of the Foundations of Soil & Plant Science series — a curated set of conversations that still shape how I think about cultivation, soil fertility, and production systems. Originally released as Episode 20, this discussion with farmer and author Ben Hartman explores lean farming principles and how reducing waste, simplifying workflows, and focusing on value-driven tasks can improve both efficiency and profitability in cultivation. Many of the concepts in this episode translate directly to indoor and greenhouse production and remain highly relevant today.
Cannabis Cultivation and Science Podcast · Clay Bottom Farm, KIS Organics, Tad Hussey, Ben Hartman
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Show Notes
This episode is part of the Foundations of Soil & Plant Science series — a selection of conversations that continue to influence how I approach soil health, plant performance, and cultivation systems. I’ve added a short new intro to each re-release with updated perspective and context.
Originally released as Episode 20
My guest for this episode is Ben Hartman, farmer and author of The Lean Farm.
Ben operates Clay Bottom Farm in Goshen, Indiana, and is known for applying lean manufacturing principles to agriculture. His work focuses on improving farm efficiency, reducing wasted time and materials, and designing production systems that prioritize value and profitability.
In this conversation we discuss:
What lean farming means and how it applies to cultivation
Identifying and eliminating wasted time, labor, and inputs
Designing efficient workflows and production systems
How simplifying systems can improve consistency and profitability
Applying lean principles to indoor and greenhouse cultivation
While this conversation comes from outside traditional cannabis production, the principles discussed are directly applicable to any cultivation operation looking to improve efficiency and long-term sustainability.
Part of the Foundations of Soil & Plant Science series.
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