Plant Tagging
There are multiple approaches to tagging plants. The "best" option depends on the cultivation type (indoor/mixed-light/outdoor), plant count, and budget.
Metrc clients will always associate a pre-printed Metrc tag with each plant or plant batch. Many cultivators still sticker or label the Metrc tags.
There are two printing methods. Direct Thermal (DT) burns the text into the label, and Thermal Transfer (TT) uses a ribbon to transfer ink onto a label. Learn more about DT vs TT Label Printing from our blog
Loop and Staple
Loop an inexpensive direct thermal label around the plant and staple it to hold it in place. This can be a sufficient method for indoor grows.
Hang Tags
Affix an inexpensive direct thermal label onto a hang tag, and hand this on a plant. This can be a suitable method for indoor grows and smaller-scale operations.
Synthetic Collar Tag
Use a thermal transfer printer to print onto plastic plant tags. This is ideal for outdoor use cases and long-lasting tags, though it is more expensive than direct thermal labeling and requires a ribbon, the correct tags, and a higher-end printer.
RFID Plant Tags
The printer can encode the Plant ID onto the RFID chip embedded within the plant tag.
Pre-printed tags from Metrc are RFID encoded.
Direct Thermal Label Printer for Plant Labels (ZD411)
The ZD411 is a compact and cost-effective printer. This is the smallest option available from Zebra.
Price Range: $300-$500
2" x 1" Zebra Labels: for standard product/batch tags
- Paper Construction – Suitable for indoor and general outdoor use.
- Thermal Transfer – Prints with a ribbon.
- Durable – Resistant to fading from light, heat, and abrasion.
- Readability – Crisp text and barcodes for scanning accuracy.
Uline White Tyvek® Tags
- Tear-proof, weatherproof and chemical resistant.
- Low-lint content – Ideal for sterile environments.
- 3/16″ metal eyelet.
Mid-Sized Printer for Plant Labels (ZD421)
The ZD421 is still a desktop printer, but larger than the ZD411. It is available in both direct thermal and thermal transfer models.
Price Range
Z-Perform 2000D Direct Thermal Labels
- Paper Construction – Suitable for indoor and general outdoor use.
- Direct Thermal – Does not require a ribbon.
- Durable – Resistant to fading from light, heat, and abrasion.
- Readability – Crisp text and barcodes for scanning accuracy.
Z-Perform 2000T Thermal Transfer Paper Labels
- Paper Construction – Suitable for indoor and general outdoor use.
- Thermal Transfer – Requires a ribbon.
- Durable – Resistant to fading from light, heat, and abrasion.
- Readability – Crisp text and barcodes for scanning accuracy.
Zebra 8000T Tuff 7 mil V‑Max Polyolefin
- Synthetic label
- Thermal Transfer, requires ribbon
- Durable – Resistant to fading from light, heat, and abrasion.
- Readability – Crisp text and barcodes for scanning accuracy.
Industrial Printer for Plant Labels (ZT411)
Recommended for facilities that want to print on plastic plant collar tags. This is the best choice for higher volume and outdoor operators.
Zebra 5095 Thermal Transfer Resin Ribbon
- Plant tags that will be outdoors or under grow lights
- Sharp barcodes and small text on synthetic product labels for jars, tubes, and oil bottles
Zebra 69531 – 8000T Tuff 7 mil V‑Max Polyolefin Tags
- Perfect for plants exposed to outdoor elements or chemicals
- Won’t tear or smudge
RFID Printer for Plant Labels (TSC T6000e)
Encoding the plant ID onto an RFID label requires an RFID printer.
Ribbon
Contact us for information on compatible ribbons for this printer.
RFID Label
Contact us for options on the print media compatible with this printer.
Desktop Label Printers (ZD411/ZD421)
Desktop printers are sufficient for general labeling and moderate print volumes.
The ZD411 is only used for direct printing.
The ZD421 offers a direct thermal and thermal transfer model.
Both have 203 and 300 DPI options.
Recommended Labels:
Zebra Z-Perform 2000D Direct Thermal Labels
Industrial Label Printer (ZT411)
This printer is ideal for higher volume printing.
The ZT411 is available in both direct thermal and thermal transfer models, as well as a selection of DPIs.
Recommended Labels:
Zebra Z-Perform 2000D Direct Thermal Labels
Zebra Z-Perform 2000T Thermal Transfer Paper Labels
Zebra TC22 Mobile Computer
Supports the Flourish Mobile App to allow you to work in the field and away from a laptop or desktop. Functions include:
- Outbound order allocation
- Inventory counting
- Scanning plants to audit, move, and destroy
Wifi and cellular options are available.
USB Connected Scanner
Flourish supports scanner inputs into the browser when working on a laptop or desktop. This can be useful for killing plants, inventory bulk actions, and order allocation.
Pistol Grip
Adds ergonomic support for frequent scanning.
Not required, but great for streamlining heavy days.
Note: The Zebra Protective Boot (SG-TC2L-BOOT-01 ~$57 is required.
RFID Scanning
Pair an RFID sled with the TC22 or use a TC22R to scan RFID plant and package tags.
- RFID Inventory Counts
- RFID Plant Counts (coming soon)
- RFID Seeker Function
Financing
Need Equipment Financing?
If you have 3 months of operating history, click here to explore options with our partner FundCanna.
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