Photo: Contributed

Vernon's BlueSky Organics came away from the 2021 Grow-Up Awards with the nod for best growing media.

The manufacturer of specialized soil and nutrient blends for organic cannabis and agriculture production was recognized at the national awards and expo in Niagara Falls, Ont., on Nov. 30.

BlueSky won for best nutrients’ at the 2019 event, with the 2020 event cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

"This is especially gratifying because our peers voted for us. We are very proud of our products and how they help growers with better quality and increased yields," said CEO Mary Horvatincic.

BlueSky's Supersoil includes ingredients ranging from kelp meal to volcanic rock dust, high-porosity coconut, peat, and perlite products.

Its products are also compostable, whereas the widespread industry use of rock wool (spun rock minerals) starter cubes creates significant waste, the company says.

BSO is also working with UBC Okanagan researchers to develop sustainable growing media utilizing waste by-products.

BlueSky Organics was founded in 2015.

The Grow-up Awards conference attracts more than 3,000 industry personnel and features more than 100 speakers.

Vancouver-born actor Seth Rogen was named best celebrity grower at the awards.