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Autoflowers

Best Pot Size for Autoflowering Seeds

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Growing is an art of science, and some methods achieve better results than others. There are different sizes, types, and colors of pots to consider, and it can be intimidating to know if you’re making the right choice. And with good reason. Your choice of an auto flower pot can impact your plant’s growth.

We’ll talk about the best pot size for autoflowering seeds and give some advice on choosing the best pot for growing high-producing autoflowering plants

What to consider before planting autoflower seeds 

Before planting your autoflowering seeds, it’s essential to consider both how you grow your plants and your goals. The best pot size for autoflowering seeds depends on what is available to you. Use a smaller pot size if you plan to grow multiple plants in a smaller area, and use a tent. 

Larger pots will give your plants room to grow and spread their roots, ultimately leading to a larger yield since they can take up more nutrients. Additionally, consider planting your seeds in the same pot you plan to harvest; this will minimize transplanting stress and promote a healthy root system. Your space size and the kind of plants you want to grow should also be a factor when choosing your autoflower pot. 

Factors to consider when growing autoflowering cannabis  

Root zone or root bound of your cannabis plant

One of the essential nutrient uptake systems in the cannabis plant is its roots. Gardners have always used the quote, “the bigger the roots, the bigger the fruit.” This quote rings true for cannabis as well since the root zone is the most efficient area for nutrient absorption

It’s crucial to optimize for the best size pots for autoflowers since they have a shorter vegetative cycle, making for a tighter timeframe to get the root growth correctly.

Color of the pots you grow your weed in matters

Color is not typically front of mind when thinking about the best size pots for autoflowers, but it does play an essential role in the amount of heat the roots receive. If you are growing in a cooler area and need the roots to stay warm, use black pots. Conversely, it may be best to use white pots to deflect the sunlight if you’re in a hot place. 

Match the shape of your pot according to your growing method

Typically, pots will either be round or square. Square-shaped pots are best suited for space optimization or for techniques like SOG, where you can cluster multiple single-stalk plants together. Rounded pots are an inherited trait from the early days of clay pots being thrown on a wheel, though they are currently still used due to their ease of cleaning. 

Drainage is important for your rootzone

Drainage is critical when considering autoflower pots since it affects the plant’s ability to uptake nutrients and adequately aerate the root zone. If the pots you use don’t have sufficient drainage, use a drill to put holes in the bottom of your pot, it will make all the difference in your end product. 

Growing autoflower marijuana strains is a simple process that requires some attention to detail. Download my FREE marijuana grow bible and start get amazing yield.

Choosing the right grow medium to match your potting

For most home and novice growers, grow mediums like soil and coco coir are the usual choice since they have less oversight than other methods. Rockwool, clay pellets, hydroponic, and aeroponic methods are considered more advanced and don’t need the same type of potting as mediums like soil and coco. 

Are you planning to train your autoflowers?

Pot size for autoflowers can be an essential factor when considering how to train your plants. Some training methods call for growing autoflowers in 2-gallon pots, whereas others may call for larger 4-5 gallon pots.

If you’d like to know more about pot size and autoflower training, read our article on how to maximize your autoflower yield.   

Pot sizes for the Sea of Green method (SoG)

When dealing with the Sea of Green method, you should use smaller pots to maximize volume. Growing autoflowers in 2-gallon pots (or 1-gallon) square pots would be an ideal choice for this method since it allows you to cluster the autoflowers together. 

Pot sizes for the Screen of Green (SrcOG)

The Screen of Green method allows for larger plants in your garden since this training spreads the stalks of the plant across to allow for airflow and light penetration. This low-stress training method is perfect for indoor growers looking to use fewer plants but to maximize their canopy. This training method is one of the few techniques you can do with autos with minimal stress to the plant. 

The different types of autoflower pots

With so many different types of potting available, what choice should you make?

Plastic vs felt growing marijuana in pots
Plastic vs felt growing marijuana in pots

Fabric pots

Fabric pots have quickly become the most used material for potting in the world of cannabis due to their positive effects on the root zone. Fabric pots for autoflower help with allowing the roots to breathe on all ends, drain correctly, and are a soft material for roots to push against. 

Air pots

When it comes to aeration, Air Pots take the lead. These plastic pots have hundreds of holes and openings on the sides and bottom of the pot to expose the root zone to oxygen and gain beneficial aerobic microbes. If you’re willing to water frequently, Air pots are perfect for airflow and drainage capabilities.

Airpot for a cannabis autoflower plant
Airpot for a cannabis autoflower plant

Terracotta pots

Terracotta pots are ideal to use if you won’t be moving your plants much but are in a warmer environment. Terracotta can soak up and retain moisture, allowing it to keep cool in warmer climates. When using these pots, it’s best to drill holes in the bottom to allow for better drainage.

Plastic pots

Tried, and true, plastic pots are a great inexpensive, easy-to-clean option with various shapes. Ensure your plastic pots have drainage holes to prevent water logging and nutrient lockup. I recommend using 1-gallon square plastic pots when growing using the SOG method

Paint buckets

Cultivators have used a great “guerilla growing” prop, paint buckets, to make the most out of their equipment. Since paint buckets are not explicitly made for plants to be put in, you will want to drill drainage holes to ensure no water logging. 

Autoflower marijuana seeds

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Cement pots

Cement pots can be a solid fixture for plants that last a long time and are more environmentally friendly than other potting options. I would not recommend using these as they are very cumbersome to move and could cause issues with your watering. If you are making your cement pots, follow a tutorial on properly cleaning them to make them plant ready.

Smart pots 

Smart pots are a specific brand of geo-textile pots made of a combination of synthetic fibers (generally polypropylene and polyester). They are widely agreed in the industry to be the best pots and the best pot size for autoflowering seeds. 

Smart pot: A fabric pot made from synthetic fibers for better oxygen, temperature, and water control over your plant’s roots

Common autoflower pot setups

1-4 large size autoflower plants 

When looking to grow in larger pots, the ideal pot size is 2.5-4 gallons (10-15 liters) in fabric pots. If you’re working with a standard 1.37 x 1.37 meter (4.5 x 4.5 ft) tent, this will be ideal for spacing so your plants will get an even distribution of sunlight and ventilation.

Screen Of Green

Using larger plots to give your plants more space makes for an ideal canopy to use the ScrOG method of training. Trellis netting allows you to keep an even canopy and let your autoflowers have constant air movement and adequate light penetration. 

6-10 smaller plants

For an area fitting 6-10 smaller plants, we recommend 1.75-2.5 gallon pots. 2-gallons is the sweet spot for space optimization, and when combined with a 1.37 x 1.37 meter (4.5 x 4.5 ft) tent, you have the best size pot for autoflower plants indoor.

Best size container for indoor autoflower grows 

Indoor cultivation tends to produce smaller plants; 2 gallons is the best size pots for autoflower plants. Use plastic or fabric pots depending on your setup, with fabric pots ideal for ScrOGging and plastic pots suitable for SoG methods. Regardless of the pots you use, remember to have proper drainage under your pots and a saucer to catch the runoff water in to prevent the plants from soaking. 

Pot sizes chart for marijuana autoflower
Pot sizes chart for marijuana autoflower

Best size container for outdoor autoflower grows 

For outdoor growing, the best pot for autoflower is a 4-gallon to give the roots as much room as needed. If you are growing in a windy climate, it may be best to use a heavier type of pot, like cement or terracotta, that will anchor the pot. Drainage holes are still needed for outdoor plants, but the pot’s bottom will not require a saucer since it will drain into the land. 

There are various ways to grow your autoflowers, and multiple pots can suit different needs. If I were to put together my home grow right now, the best pot size for autoflowering seeds would be 4, 4-gallon fabric pots with trellis netting for a ScrOG. It’s crucial to prepare for your grow by selecting the correct pots. 

Don’t waste that effort by purchasing low-quality seeds with questionable genetics; shop with ILGM!

FAQs

Are 2-gallon pots big enough for Autoflowers?

Yes! 2-gallon is the best pot size for autoflower cultivars growing indoors. 2-gallon autoflower yield is the sweet spot for most autoflower growers. Practicing SOG autoflowers in 1-gallon pots may be ideal, but typically 2 gallons and above will work best for your plant’s root zone.

Can you grow two autoflowers in one pot?

Yes, but remember to size up your pot if you plan to grow multiple plants in one pot. A 6-10 gallon pot will make for the best space for multiple plants; this will make the pot similar to a soil bed. Growing 2 autoflowers in one pot is a method I’d recommend if you’re tight on space.

How much soil does an autoflower need?

Allow for a knuckles-length space from the lip of the pot to finish where you put your soil. Make sure not to press down the soil too much, as it will create difficulties for the plant’s root growth.

Do Autoflowers take longer in bigger pots?

No, an autoflower will veg and flower at the same rate regardless of the pot since it isn’t a photoperiod plant. Regardless if they are in a 1-gallon or 10-gallon pots, autoflower plants will grow at the same rate.

Is there a reason to do SoG in larger pots?

If you are growing regular photoperiod plants, there may be merit to using larger pots and vegging the plants longer, but with autoflowers, there is no reason to use larger pots when doing SoG.

Cited sources:

  • (2019). Root Zone Heating & Cooling of Cannabis. Retrieved from http://rootssat.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Roots-Heating-Cooling-Cannabis-FINAL.pdf
  • Zheng, Y. (2016). Root zone environment management in container crop production. Proc. for the Veg., potato, greenhouse, small fruit & Gen. session. Mid-Atlantic Fruit & Veg. Convention, Hershey, PA. p.111-112. 
  • Zheng, Y., L. Wang, and M. Dixon. 2007. An upper limit for elevated root zone dissolved oxygen concentration for tomato. Sci. Hort. (Amsterdam). 113:162–165.
  • Caplan, D., M. Dixon, and Y. Zheng. (2018). Propagation and Root Zone Management for Controlled Environment Cannabis Production. The Atrium 52:1796– 1803.



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Autoflowers

Best Soil for Autoflowering Cannabis

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Growing a great crop of autoflower cannabis requires attention to detail regardless of the growing medium you use. If you’re going to grow in soil, you should understand how to prepare (or purchase) the best soil for autoflowers. 

The best soil for growing autoflowers in any environment should drain well and dry out on a daily basis. This will allow the plant to maintain a high metabolism and growth rate. Additionally, as a general rule-of-thumb, the best potting soil for autoflowers consists of about 65% soil and amendments and 35% aeration materials like coco coir and perlite for a 2-to-1-ratio.

This differs from what you may find in the stores, since most of the soils you’ll find in nature are one of the following:

  • Clay: Higher pH (over 7.0) due to dense mineral & nutrient content; very fine particles that stick together, causing poor drainage and holding less oxygen.  
  • Loam(y) – Moderate-high pH(6.0-7.0) with ideal mineral & nutrient content, medium fine particles that hold water & oxygen well. These typically have good drainage and are a balanced mix of all 4 types but with higher clay content.
  • Silt(y) – Moderate-low pH(5.0-6.0) with lesser mineral content than loam soil; medium-coarse particles that drain well and hold oxygen. This is also a balanced mix of all 4 types but with higher sand content.
  • Sand(y) – Low pH (under 5.0) due to its low mineral & nutrient content. This soil has coarse particles that don’t stick together and has excellent drainage with high oxygen levels.
Creating the best soil for growing marijuana auto plants

Creating the best soil for autoflowers

To reduce the chances of making costly mistakes, we need the right ingredients to make the best soil for autoflowers. I suggest using a simplified super soil recipe (or purchasing super soil here) so that you only need to use plain water (preferably filtered of chlorine) without additional fertilizer to feed your plants.

Which ingredients make the best super soil for autoflowers? Start by looking at some of the base ingredients used for making soil today. We will look at the best nutrients for autoflowers in soil so we can craft the best water-only soil for autoflowers to use for your grow. If you want to grow your own autoflowers from seed to harvest? Check out our legendary grow bible for a full guide!

Autoflower base ingredients

Coco coir (coconut fiber) is a biodegradable medium made from the fibrous husks (pith) of coconuts.

Coco coir can hold a lot of water and oxygen while maintaining its structure, making it very versatile for use as a growing medium.

It is durable, easy to use, rot-resistant, and fairly inexpensive, with a slightly acidic pH of 5.5-6.5 Some growers use it as a stand-alone medium with perlite or clay pebbles for aeration, but this method also requires regular use of water-soluble fertilizers.

person holding coco coir in a plant pot

Perlite is made from heating and expanding sand or volcanic glass into a semi-solid puffed structure similar to puffed wheat cereal. This allows perlite to be both lightweight yet structurally sound enough to create aeration and adequate drainage in potted plants. Perlite is one of the main ingredients of almost all bagged and bulk soil types. Perlite can also hold water and nutrients on its irregular surface area.

scooping perlite grow medium

Vermiculite is a softer, more porous version of perlite made by heating and expanding mica, a softer type of rock. It is useful for its ability to absorb water, nutrients, and air. It is used in hydroponic wick applications and outdoor growing containers to hold extra moisture, especially in drier climates. 

vermiculite up close

Biochar is made from slow-burning (charring) organic materials like wood at elevated temperatures in a process that uses little to no oxygen (pyrolysis). The resulting charred solids will improve a soil’s ability to hold water, absorb nitrogen, and increase soil microbial activity. Biochar is slow to break down and has been proven to sequester carbon.

A great crop starts with the proper genetics for your situation, a balanced soil mix, and an ideal growing environment. This will help ensure a successful cultivation effort and a rewarding harvest. ILGM also has their own curated fertilizers and grow kits for autoflowers that can enhance your harvest! Check out our selection below!

Marijuana Fertilizer

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Nutrients for autoflowering plants

Autoflowers won’t require the type of nutrient-dense soil mix used for photoperiod cannabis cultivars with longer growth cycles. That type of soil mix can potentially cause nutrient burn and stunt or slow plant growth. Remember that autos are native to areas with poorer soil and climate conditions. It’s important when creating the best soil to use for autoflowers that it meets their needs without causing harm. The best soil medium for autoflowers will have adequate aeration and absorption and won’t contain an excessive amount of fertilizer and nutrients.

Are soil requirements different when growing autoflowers outdoors? 

The best soil mix for growing autoflowers should suit the cultivars being grown and the environment they’ll be grown in. It’s important to properly assess the area you will use for growing outdoors.

For example, a small yard with a fence or tall surrounding foliage may block the wind or add shade versus a farm or open field which has less restriction. 

If you’re uncertain about your conditions or the best method for growing autoflowers in soil, use  

Growing marijuana autoflowers outdoor in soil

An aerated mixture and add or top dress with worm castings or a denser mix if it dries too quickly. 

Photoperiod cultivars grown outdoors can have slightly different soil aeration requirements than those grown indoors because they’re subjected to more temperature variation and extremes. Conditions that dry plants quickly, such as wind and bright sunlight, are more present in an outdoor growing environment, especially during the long days of the peak summer season.

Outdoors, the soil mix can be a bit denser, with slightly less aeration. A taller plant in a heavier container will also have an easier time staying upright when windy conditions prevail.

How can you tell if your soil is healthy or not? 

The two main factors that most affect the overall health of your soil and plants are the amount of water and the amount of food (fertilizer) they get. Cannabis plants need the right amounts of each to thrive, but overdoing it will cause harm and potential problems.

Healthy soil should absorb water and hold it in the organic matter. At the same time, it should drain excess water easily and fairly quickly within a 24-hour period. This will keep the microbiology alive and maintain a functioning root zone. Healthy soil maintains an even balance of oxygen and moisture in the root zone and has a pleasant earthy smell. 

Unhealthy soil tends to have a rotten (sulphur) smell, usually caused by overwatering and/or overfertilization. This drowns the microbiology and displaces the oxygen in the root zone, creating anaerobic conditions (no oxygen) which end up killing the roots and eventually the plant. 

Proper watering is key

It is critical that your soil mix has enough pore space in it to maintain healthy oxygen levels. Overfertilization can cause damage to plant tissue, soil microbiology, and soil texture. 

Proper hydration (watering) is one of the toughest concepts for a new grower to master, as it’s nearly always learned by trial and error (mostly error if nobody is teaching you). As a landscape installer, indoor plant technician, and cannabis cultivator, I’ve seen more plants die from drowning than for almost any other reason. 

Watering autoflower marijuana plant

If you’re unsure you gave it enough water, you tend to give it a little more. The plant starts turning yellow as the soil’s nitrogen evaporates. Is the plant sick? It’s turning yellow. Well, I better give it some more water. More is better, right?? WRONG

The advice I would give to any new grower is to eventually learn, by feel, the proper weight of your plant In its container after you have watered it correctly. When in doubt, always err on the side of caution. It’s much easier to save a plant that is wilting than one that is drowning! 

The benefits of organic soil when growing autoflower seeds 

If you can’t make the best living soil, make the best organic soil for autoflowers.

Using organic soils for your auto flower cannabis seeds will give your plants a slow & steady release of nutrients. This will allow them to maximize their growth rate after transplanting and reduce the need for supplemental feeding. It will reduce the risk of nutrient burn and will help ensure a quality harvest with minimal effort and interruption. If you’re search for the best autoflowering seeds with guaranteed germination, hop on over to ILGM by clicking the button below!

Autoflower marijuana seeds

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Common amendments used in making organic soils and living soils for autoflowers

Bat Guano is the accumulated excrement of seabirds or bats. Guano is a highly effective fertilizer due to its high nitrogen, phosphate, and potassium content, all key nutrients essential for plant growth. It is used as an organic fertilizer and soil conditioner. It has a high amount of organic matter. Bat guano feeds soil bacteria and is high in nitrogen, which gives plants a quick boost of green growth. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guano

bat guano fertilizer

Worm Castings are the end-product of the breakdown of organic matter by earthworms. Worm castings are a nutrient-rich organic fertilizer and soil conditioner in a form that is relatively easy for plants to absorb. Worm castings (also called vermicompost) are sometimes used as an organic fertilizer. The earthworms grind and uniformly mix minerals in simple forms so plants only need minimal effort to obtain them. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vermicompost

worm castings fertilizer for cannabis plants

Manure is organic matter that is used as organic fertilizer in agriculture. Most manure consists of animal feces; other sources include compost and green manure. Manures contribute to the fertility of soil by adding organic matter and nutrients, such as nitrogen, that are utilized by bacteria, fungi, and other organisms in the soil. Higher organisms then feed on the fungi and bacteria in a chain of life that comprises the soil food web 

manure for a marijuana soil medium

Kelp Meal (dried & ground kelp) is a completely natural, organic product and a source of over 70 vitamins and minerals. Organic kelp fertilizer is valued for its micro-nutrients as well as its macro-nutrients of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Organic kelp fertilizer is dried seaweed which is used to encourage healthier plant growth, promote greater fruit and vegetable yields, and to overall enhance the general appearance of a plant or garden. 

kelp meal soil additive

Mycorrhizal fungi help break down nutrients and make them more available to a plant’s roots through a symbiotic association between the fungus and the plant (“root fungus”). These fungi play important roles in plant nutrition, soil biology, and soil chemistry and will help increase the nutritional uptake and growth rate of your plants. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mycorrhiza

Bone meal & blood meal are the processed and dried by-products of animal slaughter operations used primarily as a source of phosphorus and nitrogen, respectively. Both have well-known uses in farming & agricultural operations, but in recent years have fallen out of favor with many farmers out of concerns over higher levels of hormones and other substances used on animals which are processed in those facilities. These powdered fertilizers can be quite irritable and dangerous to inhale. 

bone meal soil additive

It is a best practice to use a respirator or fine particle mask to protect your lungs when making or mixing soils and fertilizers, as well as a hat, gloves, eye protection, and long sleeve clothing to keep the dust off your hair and skin. 

What is the best soil for autoflowers?  I often hear this question, and the answer depends on many factors. I prefer to grow my cannabis using organic amendments and practices, so I prefer to use a living soil that I make myself. I have the time and materials to make the best living soil for autoflowers, but you may not, and that’s just fine. Use what you have available to you or what you can afford.

Remember, with a faster growth cycle and automatic flowering, there is less margin for error. Autoflowers won’t have time to recover from mistakes. It’s important that we understand this when deciding on the best soil for growing autoflowers.

Using the best soil for autoflowers will simplify your cultivation effort and make it more enjoyable, as the right soil mix will do most of the work for you. Nature performs marvelously under the right conditions. Cultivation should be a fun and enjoyable experience. It can help you understand the nature around you and within you. Cultivation can be your meditation. Learn more tips on growing marijuana at ilovegrowingmarijuana.com and don’t forget to Let it Grow! 

FAQs about the best soil for auto flowers

How much soil does an auto flower need?

A good rule of thumb is to budget for 1 gallon of soil per 1 foot of vertical growth. (Convert to liters and cm?)

Can you use super soil for auto flowers?

Yes, you can, but you may want to dilute your super soil, or create a pocket of potting soil for transplanting into. That way you reduce the chance of having nutrient burn when using or transplanting, and the plant will have time to adapt and grow into the super soil when it’s ready.

How wet should soil be for auto flowers?

It’s important not to overwater your autoflowers! You want to make sure your soil has plenty of oxygen, especially during the first month of growth as they are not the vigorous growers that photo cannabis cultivars are.

Do bigger pots mean bigger buds? 

Genetic factors will determine the overall size of your plants. Bigger plants and bigger buds usually result from having a bigger light source: Plants grown outdoors in full sun tend to be larger and have bigger buds than plants grown indoors under artificial light. 

How can I make my auto flower grow faster? 

The secret to faster growth is making sure you have the right mix of oxygen and water in the root zone, and not overwatering. Higher levels of oxygen in the root zone will help increase the overall metabolic rate of the plant and allow the plant to achieve a greater biomass (roots, shoots, and leaves).

Proper sizing of growing containers is equally important. If you transplant into a container that’s too big, the plant may grow vertically slower at first because the roots are exploring and searching for the bottom before the plant will add more top growth and weight than it can support. 



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How to Germinate Autoflowering Cannabis Seeds

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Germinating autoflower seeds is an important first step on your grow journey. Keeping sterile conditions and controlling the environment will propel your plants toward success. Autoflower seeds can be germinated using common techniques; what happens after germination makes the autoflower process slightly different. By giving your seedling a healthy, stress-free start, you establish a strong base for high yields.

Should you germinate autoflowering seeds differently?

When people think of temperature, they usually think of the air around them. When germinating autoflower seeds, growers must also be conscious of the soil temperature. The best way to germinate autoflower weed seeds is in an air temperature of 21°C – 28°C (70°F – 82°F). The ideal soil temperature would be between 20°C – 30°C (68°F – 86°F). You can achieve this with controllable heat mats, but they aren’t necessary on every occasion.

The main difference for growers germinating autoflower seeds compared to photoperiod seeds is that autoflowers should be placed into the final container once sprouted. Photoperiod seeds are commonly transplanted into larger pots as the roots reach the bottom of the container. Some hypothesize that with autoflower strains, this action initiates flowering. By using the larger final pot right away, autoflower plants get maximum vegetative time.

Find a step by step germination guide for your autoflowering seeds in Robert’s Grow Bible below!

Should I germinate autoflower seeds in the dark?

All seedlings require light. Actively germinating auto seeds, however, prefer the dark. Not all seeds from the plant kingdom need darkness; some prefer light, but autoflower germination is best under dark conditions. Creating a dark environment by using something as simple as a cupboard drawer will do.

You need autoflower seeds before you can germinate them! ILGM has some of the most popular and easy to grow autoflowering seeds available. Click below to see our collection!

Autoflower marijuana seeds

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How to germinate autoflowering seeds

Equipment and supplies

Growers don’t need to break the bank by buying special equipment to germinate autoflowers. The two most common methods of germinating autoflower seeds involve a glass of water and the other, a wet paper towel. The space required to germinate auto seeds is also minimal. Many times a dresser drawer or a spot on the shelf in a dark closet will do fine. Direct sow into the soil is also a popular option.

Learn the best tips and tricks to maximize your autoflower yield in our dedicated guide!

If growers want to invest in specialized gear, some options can assist the germination process. Cloning and seedling kits, consisting of a tray and clear dome, are popular. Water in the base of the tray condensates on the dome, which helps maintain humidity levels. Popular germination media to place inside those domes include rock wool cubes, peat pellets, and seed plugs.

Preparing marijuana seed growing medium

Preparing medium

Preparations will vary depending on your final medium, whether it be coco, soil, living soil, or hydroponics. The latter is unique in that there isn’t a true medium the roots live in. Oftentimes, roots grow around small clay-expanded balls in net pots. Be sure to wash these balls before use and check their runoff water’s pH before placing your germinated seedling in the net pots. 

PH meter to check water for growing marijuana seeds

The main consideration with other mediums is to get them pre-moistened. Roots, especially new roots, need an even balance of water and oxygen to succeed. Coco has excellent aeration and can be given more water than traditional soil. When germinating autoflower seeds in soil, add a slight amount of water around the buried seed, not on the outer walls of the container. Living soil in general, needs to stay wet at all times to support the microbial colonies, but be careful not to drown the new seedling.

Tips before germinating auto seeds

Keep your germination area clean

Establish the location you wish to germinate your autoflower seeds in and confirm that the environment meets the required temperature, humidity and darkness needed. Keep a clean environment. Prevent dirt and dead leaves accumulating in tent corners. Don’t have small pools of spilled water on the floor. Reduce the chance for pathogens to enter the garden and kill your fresh seedlings. 

Don’t touch the first root of your autoflower seedling

Don’t touch the radicle, which is the first part of the seedling to emerge from the shell. People often refer to it as the “little white tail.” The radicle is fragile. Do not touch it with your hands. Use tweezers to plant the germinated autoflower seeds into your medium. Clearly label your seedlings. Have tags and sharpie next to you as you move the germinated auto seeds into your medium. Immediately label each container with the strain name.

Don’t touch that first root (radicle) with your hands. It’s fragile!

Do you have to soak autoflower seeds?

Autoflower seeds, just like photoperiod seeds, have a hard outer shell. Soaking the seeds in water for 12-24 hours before germination can soften the shell, making it more permeable for water to enter. Depending on your germination method, this step may not be needed. Older seeds tend to have thicker shells; soaking older seeds first often helps with germination rates.

Soaking cannabis seeds in a glass of water

The pH of the water you use to soak or germinate seeds is important. It would be bad news if the sensitive radicle emerged into a hostile environment. Everything a gardener does is designed to make the plant comfortable in its surroundings, autoflower germination is no different. Having the right pH can have an impact on your success.

Find out more information in this related article about why pH when germinating autoflower seeds matters.

How long does it take for an autoflower seed to germinate?

The time it takes an autoflower weed seed to germinate in the ideal environment will depend upon a few things. Age is a large determining factor. Older seeds generally take a few more days to germinate than fresh autoflower seeds. This is due to reduced vigor over time, which occurs naturally but can be accelerated by poor seed storage.

Vigorous autoflower seeds will crack and expose the radicle typically within 36-48 hours when using the soak or paper towel method. If placing your autoflower seeds directly into the soil or into a rockwool cube or seed plug, 5-7 days is common. In the latter method, the seedling is more established than the tiny tail we might see in earlier-mentioned methods. All seeds should emerge with their cotyledon* first, which is where they get the energy to grow until newly formed leaves can photosynthesize.

* The cotyledon is essentially the “embryo” of a plant seed. It’s packed with nutrients for the first days of a developing seedling. Later, once the seed has fully sprouted, it will grow into the seedling’s first leaves.

Autoflower seedling sprouting

How many weeks/days is an autoflower seedling stage?

Once you see the cotyledon above the surface, the autoflower seedling stage has begun. This stage lasts roughly 10-14 days as the root system establishes. Usually, the plant transitions into the vegetative stage when the autoflower seedling produces its first five-fingered set of leaves.

How often should I water autoflower seedlings?

It is better to give soil-based autoflower seedlings regular small amounts of water than a lot at once. Do not drown the small and fragile roots. Your autoflower will drink more as the root zone develops.

Cannabis seed sprouting

The best methods to sprout autoflowering seeds

Paper towel germination method

Time needed: 2 days.

  1. Wet and cut your paper towel in half.

    Wet a paper towel and ring out roughly 80% of the water.

  2. Place seeds inside the paper towel.

    Fold the paper towel in half and ensure the seeds are in full contact with the paper towel.

  3. Place the paper towel in an open plastic bag to retain moisture.

    Place this in a warm, dark location. Check daily to ensure the paper towel stays moist.

  4. Transfer radicle to your grow medium.

    Once the radicle emerges 0.7 – 1.3 cm (1/4” – 1/2”) from the autoflower seed, place it into your medium with the tip pointing down.

Want to know what the best nutrients for autoflowering cannabis are? Checkout our autoflower nutrient guide!

Soaking overnight in a glass of water

soaking seeds in a glass of water
  • Step 1 – Pour pH’d water into a glass. It does not need to be deep, but enough for the autoflower seed to float and sink to be fully submerged.
  • Step 2 – Add your seeds into the water. Wait until the radicle emerges. 
  • Step 3 – Once the radicle emerges 0.7 – 1.3 cm (1/4” – 1/2”) from the autoflower seed, place it into your medium with the tip pointing down.

Using a germination chamber

There are many kinds of germination chambers. The principle behind them is that they are an enclosed area where temperature and humidity can be set and maintained. In the commercial environment where 1,000s of seeds are germinated simultaneously, these devices are a time and labor saver. 

Rockwool cubes and peat pellets

The process of germinating autoflower seeds in rockwool or germinating autoflower seeds in peat pellets is very similar. In both instances, you place your autoflower seed into a predrilled hole and then moisten the media. The hole firmly holds the autoflower seed, giving it the contact, moisture, and darkness it needs to germinate.

Want to know what to do once your buds are ready to harvest? Download our free harvesting guide for a comprehensive overview!

Planting directly in soil

Many growers directly germinate autoflowers seeds in soil. To do this, place the autoflower seed about 0.7 cm under the soil with the pointed side down. Provide the soil in the immediate area with a small amount of water. Some people ask, how long does it take for autoflower seeds to germinate in soil? If the temperature and moisture levels are on-point, the seedling should emerge within 5-7 days.

Germinating autoflower seeds can use the same processes as germinating photoperiod seeds. A wet paper towel, a glass of pH’d water, rockwool, peat pellets, or direct sow can all be effective. In each scenario, the temperature and humidity must be in the desired range.

Want to try out some of the best autoflower seeds? Checkout our mixpack for your next grow!

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But what if your autoflower seeds are not germinating?

Evaluate your process, and figure out the problem. Do you want a guaranteed 100% success rate? Order your autoflower seeds from ILGM. We stand behind our products and the education we offer by guaranteeing germination on all our ILGM seeds. What is your favorite method for germinating autoflower seeds? Do you have more than one way? Share it in the comments, and also let us know your favorite ILGM autoflower strain. Stay groovy!

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Autoflowers

Best Light Schedule For Autoflowering Cannabis

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Autoflower varieties are unique, thanks to the exclusive trait allowing these plants to flower under different light cycles. With a handful of autoflower lighting schedules to choose from, curious growers want to know, what is the best light cycle for autoflowers? Light drives growth, but is there such a thing as too much light, do plants need to sleep? What about the light spectrum for autoflowers, does that make a difference? Fortunately, we have the information you need to make an informed decision on your autoflower light cycle.

What’s the best light schedule for autoflowers?

Although there are a number of possible light schedules for your autoflowers, there are four commonly used light cycles for autoflowering strains.

Light Schedule 24/0 20/4 18/6 12/12
Pros Maximum light exposure Lots of photosynthetic activity  Balance of growth vs. recovery Lowest power bill
Cons Highest power bill Lighting may produce too much heat if growing in a warm region May not be enough light if using a low-powered light source Reduced yield potential 
Autoflower grow light schedule pros and cons

24/0 light schedule for autoflowers

At face value, it is easy to assume this would be the best lighting schedule for your autoflowering strains. Plants need light to perform photosynthesis, which drives growth. However, there is such a thing as too much light. Cannabis plants exhibit this with droopy or tired-looking leaves. The appearance is similar to a thirsty plant. 

If the light intensity is too high and the light is positioned too close to the canopy, this combination can create leaf burn and discoloration. A 24/0 light schedule for autoflowers is not widely used. The largest benefit it offers is to heat the grow room if you are growing in colder climates.

If you want to learn more about growing cannabis plants from the seedling stage to the harvest stage, and the best light schedule for your plants, download our famous Grow Bible below!

20/4 light schedule for autoflowers

This is a popular autoflower light schedule for growers. This schedule provides lots of light to fuel the creation of sugars and carbohydrates via photosynthesis, but it also provides the plant with a rest period. During the dark hours, many beneficial phytochemical reactions occur in the plant (2). 

Some autoflower growers will switch from an 18/6 light schedule to a 20/4 lighting schedule for their autoflowers once the plant begins to show signs of flowering. Regular and autoflower varieties benefit from a higher light intensity as they progress to the flowering stage

18/6 light schedule for autoflowers

An 18/6 lighting schedule for autoflowers is widely used by autoflower growers. It has the benefit of encouraging healthy growth, which includes a rest and recovery period during the dark cycle. This is also a common light cycle for photoperiod plants in the vegetative stage, meaning your autoflowers can be flowering in the same tent, maximizing a grower’s footprint.

Over the course of the average autoflowers lifecycle (90 days), an 18/6 lighting schedule is best for your autoflowers can save 180 hours of electricity compared to a 20/4 light cycle. This schedule can also reduce the heat needed to be managed by other equipment in the grow room. 

If you want to know the best light schedule for all types of marijuana plants, check out our guide on: What is the best light cycle for weed plants?

12/12 light schedule for autoflowers

A common yield-limiting factor in the indoor garden is the lack of lighting. Lower-powered lights or shorter lighting durations will produce lower yields. For this reason, many autoflower growers stay away from this lighting schedule. If a grower has a very high-intensity light, this can still be a viable option.

An autoflower plant will continue to flower using a 12/12 lighting schedule, which means it can be grown alongside flowering photoperiod plants. This flexibility gives growers with only one flowering area the ability to grow a variety of cannabis types. For growers trying to reduce heat in the grow room, 12 hours of light daily produces less heat to mitigate. Although not a common lighting schedule for autoflowers, it has its place.

Now that you’ve learned about the best light schedules for autoflowering seeds, head over to our store to purchase your very own autoflowering seeds and get to growing!

Autoflower marijuana seeds

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What light spectrum should I use for autoflowers?

Determined by wavelength and energy, there are seven wavelengths of color in the visible spectrum (3). These wavelengths are measured in nm (nanometers). Plants react in predictable patterns when grown under specific wavelengths of light. This knowledge can be used to select the best light spectrum to grow autoflowers, depending upon the growth stage

color temperature chart for the light spectrum using kelvin

6500k blue light during the vegetative stage

The K at the end of 6500k stands for Kelvin. Kelvin temperature identifies the perceived color emitted by the light source. Compact fluorescent lamp (CFL) bulbs are commonly labeled in Kelvins ranging from 1000k to 8000k. The higher the number, the bluer the light will appear. Kelvins are not the same unit of measurement as nm, which measures the wavelengths of light.

Blue light sits in the wavelength range of 400-500 nm. Blue light regulates the opening of the stomata, which control transpiration and uptake of CO2 (4). This spectrum is also used in the photosynthesis process, which drives growth. Autoflowers grown under this spectrum generally have thicker stems and shorter intermodal spacing. Blue light has been shown to suppress extension growth. Ceramic Metal-Halide light (CMH) bulbs are known for their characteristic blue color output, making them a popular choice for the vegetative stage.

blue light cfl bulb for autoflower veg stage

2700k red light during flower

This Kelvin range appears to the eye as a yellow, orange, reddish combination often described as warm lighting. High-pressure sodium (HPS) bulbs are commonly known to be in this range, giving them a distinct color signature. The visible spectrum for red light sits in the 620-700 nm wavelength range. Red light has been shown to increase flower production but can cause stem elongation. The red spectrum is also the most efficient group of wavelengths for powering photosynthesis.

Although these two colors are highly beneficial to the growth of autoflowers, growers will not achieve optimal results with red and blue lighting exclusively. The best light spectrum for autoflowers includes a wider range of wavelengths, often referred to as full spectrum lighting. 

red grow light for the flowering stage

Common questions about light and autoflowers

Do I even need to change the light schedule for autoflowers at all?

No, you do not need to change your lighting schedule to trigger flowering in autoflower varieties. Autoflowers have an internal clock that will initiate these changes. If growers want to switch their lighting schedule while growing, this will not negatively impact the plant.

Do Autoflowers need darkness? And Why?

Autoflowering plants do prefer a period of darkness. It is completely possible to grow an autoflower on a 24/0 light schedule, but the results will be less than optimal. Plants undergo chemical processes during the dark cycle, which contribute to the health, vigor, and pest resistance of the plant. By giving autoflowers at least a few hours of rest each day, growers can increase their yields.

This is the most pertinent question when determining the absolutely best lighting schedule for autoflowers. To answer this question most effectively, growers must know their DLI (daily light integral). DLI measures the total amount of Photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) received in a day as calculated by intensity and duration that arrives at the canopy. This calculation is also known as Photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD). 

Cannabis plants will perform best under varying DLIs during different stages of growth. Seedlings need less light and, therefore, less DLI. As the cannabis plant grows, the DLI requirement will increase. Flowering plants produce best with a 40-50 DLI and roughly 25% lower for the vegetative stage. Whether growing autoflowers or photoperiods, the DLI numbers remain constant. The variable that changes is duration. 

24/0  20/4 18/6 12/12
DLI of 15 = PPFD of 174 209 232 348
DLI of 30 = PPFD of 348 417 463 695
DLI of 40 = PPFD of 463 556 618 927
DLI of 50 = PPFD of 579 695 772 1158

This chart represents the level of PPFD needed to hit optimal growth potential under the different light schedules.

Lighting manufacturers will commonly publish PPFD charts for their lighting online. To find the best lighting schedule for autoflowers under your own light, find the PPFD of your light. The recommended hours will be directly related to the intensity and quality of the light source. Once you know your PPFD, use the chart above to set your autoflower lighting schedule appropriately. Knowing that you can calculate the total light hours for your autoflower seeds.

How far should an autoflower be from the light?

There are many variables to consider, but a constant principle is that the light distance from the canopy will change depending on the age of your autoflower. Lights will be placed furthest away during the seedling stage. Flowering is the stage when growers keep the light closest to the canopy. 

Want to know the optimal lighting conditions for all types of seeds? Check out our cannabis lighting guide!

Lights placed close to the canopy will have a higher PPFD in the center of the canopy, but the PPFD will be far less in the corners. Raising the light will provide a more even distribution of PPFD, but those numbers will be lower. It is important to know that light follows the inverse square law in regard to distance (6).

**Inverse Square Law relates to the intensity of the light on an object at different distances from the light source. 

A light source at a distance of one meter from a floor is lighting one square meter (1×1), which is receiving 100% light. At a distance of two meters from the floor, the light now covers four square meters (2×2), which is receiving 1/4 of the light than it received at one meter away (1 m2 vs 4 m2). At a distance of three meters from the floor, light is now covering nine square meters (3×3), and receiving only a ninth of the light compared to one meter away (1 m2 vs 9 m2). 

As you can see, light intensity rapidly falls off the further from an object the light source is. It doesn’t follow a linear reduction. Instead of decreasing in equal increments, each interval is decreased by a factor of the base.** 

Life stage, intensity, and distance are important things to consider. Many lighting manufacturers will provide recommendations on their websites. The chart below shows common hanging heights for commonly used lighting sources.

Plant growth stage LED (600W+) HID (MH/HPS) (1000W) CFL
Seedling 20-24” 32-36” 10-12”
Vegetative 16-18” 20-24” 8-10”
Flowering 12-14” 14-18” 6-8”
Determining how far your autoflower should be from light sources by growth stage

What are the best lighting options for growing autoflowering cannabis indoors?

LED

Over the past ten years, lighting companies have poured millions of dollars into the research and development of this lighting sector, primarily fueled by demand from indoor gardeners. As the discoveries were made and the implementation refined, LED now stands as the top lighting choice for growing autoflowers. 

LED lights for growing cannabis

The efficiency per watt has surpassed HID/HPS systems. Color spectrums can be precisely tuned and, in some cases, adjustable by the grower. LED lighting converts more energy into usable light. It also does so with less heat signature aimed at the canopy. The lower cost of entry and savings on energy bills are all reasons why growers are switching to LED.

High-intensity discharge lamps (HID lamps) – MH/HPS

HID systems were the powerhouses of indoor gardening. They have been the go-to lighting solution for gardens growing more than a few plants at a time. The cost of entry is low, which makes them more accessible. Autoflowers will grow under both metal-halide (MH) and HPS exclusively, but it is preferred to switch bulbs depending on the stage of growth. 

HID lights for growing autoflowering cannabis

MH is preferred for the vegetative growth stage of autoflowers due to the boost in the blue spectrum. Autoflowers prefer a bump of red spectrum lighting during flowering and the HPS bulb suits that need perfectly. Growers in cold regions can take advantage of the high heat output from HID systems to assist in heating the grow space during winter months.

CFL

This type of lighting has the lowest cost of entry, although you will need several to successfully grow a meaningful harvest. CFL bulbs come in various shapes, colors, and power outputs. Growers can find the right CFL bulb to grow autoflower plants based on their needs. Because CFL bulbs have a lower heat signature than HID or LED systems, CFL lighting can be run closer to the canopy. This is an advantage for growers with low ceiling clearance.

Growing marijuana under CFL lights

Conclusion / Summary

The best lighting schedule for autoflowering plants will be custom to each grower, but the requirements of the plants remain the same. Using the information and charts provided in this article, growers can confidently select the best lighting schedule and hanging height for their autoflowers. 

Lighting, or lack thereof, is one of the largest yield-limiting factors. Use this information to grow the best autoflowers on the block. Be sure to check out more of our insider tips by downloading the ILGM Grow Bible. Please let us know what you are using to illuminate your autoflowers and how it stacks up on the PPFD chart in the comments below.

Additional FAQs

Is It okay to change the lighting cycle during the grow?

Yes, unlike photoperiod plants, the growth cycle of autoflowers is not tied to light hours. The majority of autoflower growers will pick a lighting schedule and stick to it. Some growers will increase the lighting hours during the flowering stage to increase DLI.

How do I know if my autoflower is getting too much light?

The most conclusive way to know if your autoflower is getting too much light or not is to calculate the DLI. There is such a thing as too much light, and this will result in diminishing returns. There is a point where the amount of light can damage the plant.

What are the first signs of stress?

Commonly when autoflowers receive too much light, there is also a heat buildup at the canopy level. Too much heat will result in the leaves folding upwards like a taco. The more severe the taco, the likelier there is a heat issue. Autoflowers also tend to transpire more to deal with extra heat, and this can be manifested by the very edges of the serrated leaf portions curling upwards. 

Some LED lights can put out very intense light without much additional heat. The most obvious sign the light is too intense will be manifested by the bleaching of bud tips and occasionally on the foliage. In most cases, the foliage will show nutrient deficiencies or toxicities first. The extra light and heat create rapid transpiration and root uptake, which can deplete the nutrient reserve in the soil. This reaction can also draw too many nutrients into the tissue as the plant seeks to pull in more water.

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