Many people refer to marijuana as weed. One reason they may do so is that it is easy to grow. It appears to pop up out of nowhere like weeds in a yard do. However, there are specific steps a person should take to ensure a bountiful harvest.
When growing your own cannabis, it’s best to know the myths associated with this activity. Sadly, many of these myths arose because cannabis was illegal to grow or possess for many years. Separating fact from fiction can be challenging, but this starter guide for new growers will provide an overview of cannabis cultivation 101.
Know the Laws
Before proceeding with plans to cultivate cannabis, know the local and state laws. Furthermore, research should be conducted on whether recreational or medicinal cultivation is allowed. Nobody wants to put time and effort into growing cannabis only to have it confiscated.
Planning
Cannabis plants are annuals, so they don’t grow back yearly. New plants must be purchased, or seeds must be purchased or harvested from existing plants and saved. This warm-season annual takes anywhere from 10 to 32 weeks to grow, depending on the growing method and the desired size of the plants. Individuals must decide whether they want to grow the plants indoors or outdoors. Each has advantages and drawbacks.
Plant Stages
Plants go through several stages of development. They start as seeds or clones. Seeds must germinate before entering the seedling stage, while many clones are already in this stage when purchased. Plants move from the seedling stage to a vegetative phase. This development period is the longest, but the plant has no buds.
Buds begin to appear when the plant enters the flowering stage. Most plants spend two months in this stage before moving into the harvesting phase. When harvested, the plants must be trimmed, dried, and cured before they are ready.
Light Requirements
Cannabis plants need light to grow and develop. The sun may provide this light for plants grown outdoors. Indoor grow spaces need special lights, but a plant can have too much of a good thing. Many cannabis plants are photoperiodic plants, which means they move through the various stages of development based on light cycles. Autoflowering plants, however, move through the stages of development regardless of how much light they receive.
Water Requirements
Plants pull hydrogen from water during photosynthesis and need water to carry nutrients from the soil to the plants. Without water, a plant won’t have pressure on its cell walls, and it will be difficult to bend with the wind or move to sunnier areas. The plant loses water when it transpires to cool down. Watering the plant thoroughly is recommended, but don’t overdo it. The roots need time to dry out and pull oxygen from the soil.
Grow Mediums
Growers must also choose a medium for their plants. Most people use soil to stabilize the plant and help it remain upright. The soil provides the nutrients cannabis plants need. However, indoor growers may choose a soilless medium or a hydroponics setup.
Temperature and Humidity
Cannabis plants thrive in temperate conditions. Plants in the vegetative stage prefer a temperature between 70 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit, with relative humidity between 40 and 60 percent. When they move to the flowering stage, preferred temperatures range from 65 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit, with relative humidity between 40 and 50 percent. Ventilation is also necessary for adequate airflow.
New growers should connect with those who have experience with cannabis cultivation. People love to share their knowledge with others. Growing cannabis isn’t difficult when one knows the basics, so pick a strain and try your hand at this activity. You’ll love the results.
