Introduction:
The cannabis plant is self-described by its complex nature filled with layers of green foliage, fluffy dense buds and sticky resin, producing high quality terpenes and THC. As incredible as its flowers are, it can be equally difficult to cultivate.
3 key principles I advise new growers to focus on when starting up:
1) Plant Variables: When beginning to learn how to grow cannabis it is important to focus on specific variables that mater most. For example: Environmental Factors, Growing Medium, Lighting and Nutrients Provided can make every difference along the way. Before taking the steps towards cultivating, it is very important to choose the systems that would work best for you and your style of growing, maintaining these variables will ensure the success of your harvest.
2) Consistency: Once you have discovered the right system for you and your environment, the plant will flourish in an environment that is as consistent as possible. By maintaining environmental factors and proper nutrient uptake, it will ensure your plants are not negatively impacted and stressed out.
3) Look Out for Signs: It is very important that along the way you observe your plants for signs of stress. Don’t be worried, cannabis plants are very resilient but you must address irregular signs immediately. It can be the difference of saving your plant or even just maximizing how much you can potentially yield.
For the purpose of this blog, we will be discussing 2 plant variables then follow up on the others during part 2.
Plant Variable #1: Space Available & The Plants Environment:
The first factor to analyze is your space and decide what would be the proper sized cultivation set up for your room. Many growers tend to run into temperature and humidity problems because they miscalculate how much space they actually have available to grow cannabis. The plants tend to grow big and want all the space they can get in flower. In addition, you need to take into account the space needed for additional supplies and equipment. Our recommendation for beginner growers is to start in a tent, gain experience, then if desired, move into an open area grow.
Maintaining a stable environment is very important. Otherwise, the plant can become overstressed, failing to produce as expected.
Optimal ranges as follows:
· Temperatures
o Vegetative Stage: 70 - 80 F
o Flower Stage: 72 - 82 F
· Humidity
o Vegetative Stage: 40% - 60%
o Flower Stage: 45% - 55%
Temperature and humidity levels kept between these ranges will ensure the plant is in its healthiest environment. Note, by adding C02 into the plant regiment will enhance the its tolerance to handle higher temperatures. Also, it is important that the temperatures do not go below 65 F at night time when the lights are turned off. During the first 2-4 weeks of the flower photoperiod, the plants will stretch to nearly double their size. You can minimize the stretching by maintaining similar temps between night and day time. Regarding humidity, going below 40% will cause the root system to dry out faster than usual and potentially kill off some of the micro roots. Soil mediums must maintain proper hydration. On the other hand, if the humidity is above 60% it can create an environment for spores, mold, diseases and insects to flourish. Along with maintaining proper humidity and temperatures, it is very important to circulate the air to reduce stale air pockets creating build up. So, make sure to add a few osculating fans into the environment to reduce stale air.
Plant Variable #2: Soils, Mediums & Hydroponics
1. Soil
A. Pros:
Easier to use and beginner friendly
Typically amended with enough nutrients for 30 days
Most cost effective
B. Cons:
Needs to be mixed with perlite to add aeration for root growth
Soil does not dry out as fast
Inhibiting the potential for increased root development
Leaves the roots prone to diseases & pests
2. Coco Coir
Information breakdown:
Made from coconut husks, ground up until it creates a soil like consistency
Known to be semi hydro providing lots of air and providing better nutrient accessibility to plants
Dries out at a much faster rate than soil
A. Pros:
Can grow bigger and healthier plants with coco coir
Likes to be regularly watered so over watering is not as big of an issue
Promotes faster root development
Many are premixed with perlite and worm castings
B. Cons:
Water pH levels must be closely monitored
Must maintain a consistent water level, can kill the roots if dried out too quickly
Usually needs a nutrient regiment about a week or 2 after planting
3. Hydroponics System
*Hydroponics are all water systems with no soil in the process at all. *
A. Pros:
Faster and much larger yields than soil or coco
Reduced potential for invasion of pests
Uses nutrients and water very efficiently
B. Cons:
Extremely expensive startup costs and maintenance
Complex nutrient feeding systems
High potential for water and nutrient stress
Sanitation is very important. Otherwise, can cause water borne plant diseases
*Stay tuned for part 2 where we discuss proper lighting and nutrients for your new grow room!*
Σχόλια