by Cannabis, also known as marijuana, has gained significant popularity in the past few years as more and more states legalize its use. While smoking or consuming readymade cannabis products is common, many new growers are interested in cultivating cannabis on their own. However, growing cannabis is very different from growing common plants like tomatoes or fruits. It requires special care, understanding of the botanics, and controlled conditions to yield high-quality produce.
Choosing a suitable strain
With hundreds of Cannabis Cultivation varieties available today, choosing the right strain is the first crucial step. Some factors to consider include:
– Indica vs Sativa vs Hybrid: Indicas have higher CBD and give relaxing body high. Sativas have higher THC and cerebral high. Hybrids have a balanced mix.
– Flowering time: Outdoor strains need at least 10-12 weeks to flower whereas indoor strains flower in 8-10 weeks.
– Yield: Some strains naturally yield more than others. High yield strains are best for beginners.
– Resistance: Look for molds, mildews and pests resistant varieties.
– Taste and aroma: Choose a strain you personally enjoy the most.
Do thorough research and consult expert growers before finalizing the strain. Popular beginner strains are Northern Lights, White Widow, Blue Dream etc.
Setting up the grow area
Your growing area needs to closely mimic the natural conditions cannabis plants require to thrive. Key requirements include:
Grow tent or space:
– A dedicated 4×4 ft tent is ideal for 4-6 plants as a beginner.
– For outdoor, choose an area with morning sun and afternoon shade.
Growing mediums:
– Soil: Normal potting soils work well but organic living soils are best.
– Hydroponics: Rockwool, coco coir are popular hydro mediums for new growers.
Lighting:
– LED grow lights are best for beginners. Look for Samsung LM301B diodes.
– Indoor requires a minimum of 30 watts per sqft of grow space.
Environment control:
– Thermostat, hygrometer and fan for temperature (70-80°F) and humidity (40-55%) control.
– Carbon filter for odor control.
– Timers for light schedule.
Nutrients:
– General hydroponic Flora Trio or similar all-purpose nutrients during the vegetative and flowering stages.
Properly setting up the grow space with right tools and equipment ensures an ideal environment for cannabis to thrive in.
Germinating and planting cannabis seeds
Once your grow space is ready, it is time to start the seeds:
– Clean and sterilize your seed starter kit, rockwool cubes or seedling pots.
– Moisten the seed starter medium until it is damp but not soaked.
– Carefully plant one seed about 1/4 inch deep in each cell or cube.
– Cover and place them in a warm area with indirect light – 70-80°F is ideal.
– Keep the medium moist and misted regularly until the seeds sprout, which usually takes 5-10 days.
Monitor and remove any seeds that do not sprout within 10 days. Transplant the seedlings into the desired medium (soil/coco) when they develop their third set of leaves. Maintain warm 70-80°F temperatures with 18-24 hours of light. Gradually increase light intensity and harden them before moving to the grow tent/area. Proper germination and transplant ensures healthy vigorous plant growth further on.
Vegetative growth phase
The vegetative stage allows the young plants to develop a strong root system and structure before flowering. Key aspects include:
– Maintain 18/6 or 20/4 light cycle. 24/0 also works but stresses the plants.
– Keep grow space temperature between 70-80°F.
– Water whenever the top inch of soil is dry. Avoid soggy soils.
– Fertilize weekly with a balanced nutrient formulation.
– Prune lower unnecessary branches to direct energy upwards.
– Maintain 24-36 inch spacing between plants to allow adequate airflow.
– Continue LST (low stress training) and topping to induce lateral branching for maximum yields.
– The veg phase usually lasts 2-8 weeks depending on how large you want the plants before flowering.
A proper vegetative phase enables maximum light interception within the canopy for higher flowering yields. Monitor plant health closely and remedy issues immediately.
Flowering and harvesting cannabis
When cannabis plants have developed adequate height and structure during vegetation, it’s time to switch to the flowering photoperiod:
– Switch lights to 12/12 lighting cycle to induce flowering.
– Gradually increase nutrient feed strength and switch to bloom formulation.
– Monitor plants closely for any deficiencies, mold, or pests.
– Most strains will be ready to harvest in 8-10 weeks depending on pistil maturation.
– Trichomes on calyxes will turn from clear to cloudy/milky for a balanced high. Let some turn amber for heavy sedation.
– Cut down whole plants and hang them upside down to dry in dark place at 60-65°F and 50-55% RH for 5-10 days.
– Continue drying and curing for 2-4 more weeks to bring out best flavors in a jar with humidity control packs.
*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
