The cannabis market has experienced growth over the years, and everyone interested in growing weed is searching for information to help capitalize on the booming industry. A few cannabis plants might not require thorough knowledge or advanced cultivation skills, but competitive growth of cannabis from seed to harvest needs solid understanding. Fortunately, this guide seeks to help beginners and experienced weed growers with tips and best practices that guarantee success in each phase.
Selecting Quality Seeds
Successful cannabis cultivation starts with selecting quality seeds from reputable breeders or seed banks. People looking for cannabis seeds should start by determining the goal of the weed-growing project. Do they want cannabis with high THC content? Do they want to grow a few plants for personal use? Do they prefer Indica or Sativa? Answering these questions lays a firm foundation for successful weed cultivation. Therefore, discuss those goals and ask the supplier for recommendations.
Weed Germination and Seedling
Planting and germination is the next stage after buying quality seeds. When the seeds absorb water from the soil, they sprout and develop into seedlings. To enhance the process, experts recommend soaking the cannabis seeds in a moist paper towel and placing them in a dark and warm place. After a few days, the seed will crack and produce a root initiating the growth cycle.
After germination, it is time to move the germinating seeds to the growing medium. Consider using pots or treys with light, fertile soil as a germination media and ensure the soil is moist but not saturated. If possible, provide the seedlings with light for about 18-24 hours daily using LED or fluorescent bulbs and ensure proper ventilation to prevent mold or fungal diseases. The ideal temperature for the seedling stage is 70-750 F.
Vegetative Phase
Cannabis seedlings grow leaves and branches at this stage. They need about 16 hours of light from specialized grow lights or sunlight. Since excessive humidity could lead to fungal infections, monitor humidity levels and maintain a temperature range of 70-800F. Also, use fertilizers with high nitrogen content to promote the development of leaves and branches and prepare the plant for flowering. Remember to read the fertilizer application instructions on the packaging to avoid making mistakes.
Flowering
The magic happens here since the flower buds contain CBD and THC. Experienced weed growers initiate flowering by providing prevailing conditions past the midsummer peak and making the days shorter. Therefore, reduce the number of lighting hours from 18 to 12 and increase the hours of darkness from 6 to 12. After 8 to 12 days, the pistils of the flowers emerge. Depending on the strain, the plant can double or triple its height during the flowering phase.
Harvesting and Drying
This is the moment every weed grower waits for, and it is marked with signs such as the appearance of trichomes on the flowers. During the optimal harvest time, the trichomes turn from cloudy to amber. Therefore, consider using microscopes to examine them. Harvesting weed too early or too late might affect the potency and quality. Therefore, nurture patience and consult experts if the cannabis is ready for harvest.
Cannabis cultivation requires patience, knowledge, skills, and attention to detail. These simple steps highlight what to expect in each phase to adjust expectations and increase the harvest. Beginners and experienced weed growers can apply these tips to maximize yields and avoid costly mistakes.
