Connect with us

Growing

Flushing Cannabis Plants: Guide for Optimal Yield and Aromas

Published

on


To eliminate excess salts and enhance the smoking experience, it is recommended to flush cannabis plants with plain water. We explain flushing for different growing mediums, how to optimise your watering practices, and more. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced grower, this guide provides essential information about flushing your cannabis plants.

What does flushing mean?

Flushing cannabis has become a common practice during the final stages of a cannabis plant’s life cycle. When plants grow in soil, coco, or a hydroponic growing medium, providing water without nutrients during the last 7 to 14 days has many benefits. Flushing is essential to the growing process from legally licensed cultivation facilities to hobby growers!

Watering a cannabis plant with plastic watering bucket

Many believe that flushing your plants will not only wash away any undissolved salts that have accumulated inside the growing medium around the root zone but also cause weed plants to enter a catabolic state. In other words, they begin to feed on themselves, which gives the impression that the plants are using any internal reserve nutrition before being harvested.

When is the right time to flush weed plants?

A metal sprinkler flushing a cannabis plant growing outdoors

The optimal length of the flushing period is a subject of debate among many growers. While most prefer a 14-day period before harvest, some find that a seven-day period of plain water is sufficient. Notably, the flushing period should coincide with the strain’s flowering time. For instance, if a grower is flowering a strain with an expected flowering time of 8 weeks, the flush will occur between weeks 6 and 8 of the flowering stage to ensure optimal results.

After flushing, growers can enjoy a smoother smoke and improved flavour and aroma in their final product.

The benefits of flushing

Close-up of cannabis leaf with droplets of water on it

There are many benefits associated with flushing cannabis plants. The flavour of weed will taste much smoother and more refined, and the ember of a joint will burn slowly without side burning. The ash from a joint will also be soft white and fall at the lightest tap. As far as practicality goes, substrates such as coco and soil can be reused once well flushed, and medicinal users prefer the peace of mind of a product free of chemicals and salts.

What are the salts that need flushing out?

As you may be aware, cannabis plants need a balance of primary and secondary nutrients, as well as trace mineral elements, to grow strong and healthy. These essential nutrients come in salts, which dissolve in contact with water. However, over time, these salts can build up around the roots and sit within the growing medium, potentially causing harm to your plants. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the risks of nutrient buildup and take appropriate measures to flush your plants correctly.

An orange watering bucked flushing a cannabis plant growing in a pot

Primary nutrients

Primary nutrients, or micronutrients, are essential elements that plants require in relatively large quantities for their growth and development. There are three primary nutrients:

1. Nitrogen (N)

Nitrogen is a key component for chlorophyll production, allowing weed plants to photosynthesise and store energy. Cannabis plants will use nitrogen during the seedling, vegetative and flowering stages.

2. Phosphorus (P)

Phosphorus is a nutrient that helps boost root growth and is responsible for flower production. This nutrient is essential during the early growth stages of weed plants and clones.

3. Potassium (K)

Potassium combined with phosphorus will promote a heavy set of flowers and buds. It is also responsible for the stomata function of the leaf tissue, which allows plants to absorb CO2 and perform photosynthesis.

Secondary nutrients

The plants use these nutrients less than the primary nutrients mentioned above; however, they are just as important in their own unique way. There are three secondary nutrients weed plants require during their lifecycle.

1. Calcium (Ca)

Calcium is an essential nutrient which helps plants fight off disease and pests. A key component for building cell walls, often sold together with magnesium as Cal-Mag.

2. Magnesium (Mg)

Magnesium has many roles and functions as a secondary plant nutrient, ranging from chlorophyll synthesis to enzyme activation.

3. Sulphur (S)

Sulphur is responsible for enzyme activity and nitrogen, oil and protein synthesis metabolism.

Trace elements

As the title suggests, these elements are present in trace amounts. Trace elements are responsible for photosynthesis, hormone production, cell development, flower and seed production. So, let us check out the six most important elements.

1. Manganese (Mn)

Manganese is essential for plant growth, production, metabolism, and interaction with plant cells.

2. Copper (Cu)

Copper is responsible for enzyme production, chlorophyll development and germination.

3. Zinc (Zn)

Zinc has a role which aids enzyme production and plant metabolism and is a key player with general plant health.

4. Iron (Fe)

Iron aids with chlorophyll production and photosynthesis, fruit and flower production. Too much iron can cause plants to become stunted.

5. Boron (B)

The role of boron is to help with root elongation and tissue production, cell membranes and pollen production.

6. Molybdenum (Mo) 

Molybdenum is responsible for the synthesis and activity of enzymes and is vital for the process of nitrogen. It will then convert nitrogen to amino acids and fix nitrogen in the soil.

Step-by-step guide to flushing

A person watering a cannabis plant growing in a pot with watering bucket

As a responsible grower, it is crucial to understand the importance of flushing your cannabis plants to remove excess nutrients and salts that can build up in your medium. This process helps to ensure that your plants reach their full potential in terms of flavour, aroma, and overall quality. Luckily, we have a comprehensive step-by-step guide that will help you flush your cannabis plants correctly and effectively.

1. The water source

To ensure proper flushing of cannabis, it is imperative to utilise a fresh water source. This can be attained from various sources, such as bottled water, tap water, or rainwater. It is, however, crucial to avoid using stagnant water, as it can harm plants. It is worth noting that soft water, which has lower levels of calcium and magnesium, is preferable for flushing cannabis compared to hard water.

Reverse osmosis water is also an excellent choice for flushing. This purified water is produced by filtering regular tap water through a specialised membrane filter that functions as a super-fine sieve. It allows only water molecules to pass through while blocking impurities and contaminants. If you have access to reverse osmosis water, it can be a valuable asset in achieving optimal plant growth.

2. Check the pH level

Depending on which growing medium is being used will determine the pH level of the water the plants will receive from seed until harvest. The best way to check the pH of your water source is by using a digital pen. Below is more detailed information about the recommended Ph levels for soil, coco and rock wool.

3. Water temperature

The ideal water temperature for cannabis plants is between 18 and 22°C (64 to 71°F). Avoid providing weed plants with cold water, as this will cause the temperature of the root zone to drop significantly and can potentially hinder the plant’s development.

4. The flush

During the flushing process, it is recommended to water your plant pot using three to five times the volume of water typically used. Pour water around the base of the stem and wait for the water to permeate through the soil. This process will help to ensure that the growing medium becomes thoroughly soaked, with excess water draining from the bottom.

5. Disposing of run-off water

Disposing the run-off water is crucial, as it contains all the unwanted residues removed from your growing medium. Always remember that proper flush measures can prevent nutrient buildup and help your plants reach their full potential.

Flushing plants in coco

Coco coir is made from the hairs of coconut husks. Once treated with salts and buffered, coco becomes an excellent growing medium thanks to its high water content and air capacity. It is best to use reverse osmosis water at pH 6.0 when flushing weed plants grown with coco. Adding enzymes to used coco will also break down old root matter, allowing it to be recycled and used for a second crop.

How to flush plants in soil

Flushing cannabis plants grown in living soil will probably cause the most considerable debate among growers regarding flushing. Organic nutrients will buffer over 72 hours, digested by the beneficial microbes and bacteria in the soil. Some soil growers may only feed plain water throughout the entire life cycle and may not even need to wash away salt buildup. The pH of the water should be between 5.5 and 6.5 for an organic soil substrate.

How to flush plants in rock wool

Rock wool is a hydroponic growing medium containing no nutrients, making it an inert growing medium perfect for hydroponic applications. With the ability to hold up to 18 times its weight in water, rock wool is used for commercial-scale vegetable and fruit production. It is the most popular among indoor hydroponic growers. The pH of the water should be between 5.5 and 6.5 when flushing weed plants in rock wool. Unlike coco, rock wool cannot be recycled and should be discarded after every harvest.

How to flush cannabis autoflowering varieties

Autoflower cannabis plants can be treated the same way as photoperiod plants. Fourteen days will be the ideal time to feed autoflowering plants in plain water. So if you are new to growing autoflowering plants, follow our guide and give your plants the best possible chance to thrive! This will help you avoid common mistakes and ensure your plants receive the proper care they need throughout their growth cycle.

Nutrient lockout in cannabis plants

A top-view of a cannabis plant with yellow and burned leaf showing the nutrient lockout

Nutrient lockout occurs when cannabis plants can’t absorb nutrients from their growing medium, often due to a pH imbalance or excessive nutrient buildup, especially salts from fertilisers.

  1. Causes: Imbalanced pH and overfertilisation leading to nutrient and salt accumulation.
  2. Symptoms: Stunted growth, leaf discolouration, and poor bud development, resembling nutrient deficiencies.
  3. Management: Prevent and address lockout by regularly flushing the growing medium with pH-balanced water to remove excess salts and minerals. Monitoring pH and electrical conductivity (EC) levels helps in early detection and maintaining a balanced feeding schedule is crucial to avoid overfertilisation.

Flushing not only prevents nutrient lockout but also can resolve it if symptoms appear, maintaining the health of cannabis plants.

Constant vs active flushing

Constant flushing is a technique used in cannabis cultivation where plants are watered exclusively with plain water throughout the flowering stage. While this approach assumes that the nutrients in the growing medium are enough to support the plant’s growth, it may result in nutrient deficiencies if essential nutrients are absent.

On the other hand, active flushing is a targeted approach that involves supplementing cannabis plants with only water during the final weeks of flowering. This method helps to optimise the removal of residual nutrients and reduce the risk of nutrient deficiencies during the bulk of the flowering stage. However, it does require careful monitoring and may involve more labour-intensive management than constant flushing.

Tips to consider for flushing weed

Flushing weed not only improves the smoking experience it also gives you an indication of how far your plants are ready for harvest day. Below are three top tips to consider to help you get the most out of the flushing period.

1. Using enzymes to flush cannabis plants

Enzymes are not only protein building blocks for weed plants, but they also accelerate the decomposition of undissolved salts. An excellent tip is to try at least two different enzyme products. The more enzymes a grower can provide for the substrate and roots, the more your plants will thank them.

Enzymes are building blocks for proteins and actively break down organic matter. There are many benefits for growers who use enzymes not only during the flushing period but also throughout the seedling, vegetative, and flowering periods. Roots love a good enzyme wash and will produce a bright, healthy glow.

2. Identifying the harvest window

The day a grower decides to harvest their cannabis plants should be based not only on how many days are left to flush but also on trichome maturity, calyx development, trichome coverage, and terpene production. Aligning the flushing stage with the above traits will allow them to achieve the most significant yields possible.

Fourteen days is the most popular choice amongst growers; however, some find seven days of plain water work just fine. The flushing period should coincide with the strain’s flowering time. So, for example, if a grower is growing a strain with an expected flowering time of 8 weeks, the flush will occur after 6 to 8 weeks of flowering.

3. Optimal watering practices for healthy growth

Root rot occurs when the growing medium becomes too wet, and the oxygen levels around the roots become too low. As a result, aerobic bacteria infect the roots, leading to a world of problems. The best way to prevent root rot is to allow the growing medium to dry out again. Dry-back periods are the way to solve overwatered substrates.

The flushing weed myth debunked

A black sprinkler flushing cannabis plants growing in black pots

In 2020, RX Green Technologies conducted an in-house study to determine whether flushing plants affect cannabinoid production, yield, mineral content, and extract quality. Using a Cherry Diesel plant, the study involved flushing samples for zero days, one week, ten days, and 14 days.

The results showed a slight increase in THC levels and terpenes in the flushed samples, with no significant difference in mineral content. Interestingly, the 14-day flushed sample had the highest return on extracts, and the blind taste test resulted in an even score across the board, indicating no significant difference in taste.

At Sensi Seeds, we consider flushing to be a crucial and integral step in the growing process. By flushing the plants with plain water before the harvest, we can effectively remove any excess nutrients and salts from the plant’s system. This process helps to improve the overall quality of the final product, resulting in a smoother smoke and better flavour and aroma. Whenever we grow plants in our facilities for the purpose of creating a grow report, we apply flushing during the final grow stage as well.

Is flushing my weed plants essential?

Growers can debate for hours which flushing technique works best if one week or two is the way forward, and some believe flushing is not even necessary in the first place. However, after reading this article, you should be more than confident in understanding the importance of flushing weed means.

Flushing methods can vary among growers, so remain open-minded and choose what works best based on your skills and experience. Good luck mastering the flush game and growing the best crop possible!

  • Disclaimer:

    Laws and regulations regarding cannabis cultivation differ from country to country. Sensi Seeds therefore strongly advises you to check your local laws and regulations. Do not act in conflict with the law.



Source link

Continue Reading

Growing

Meet the new and improved home of the growers, ILGM

Published

on

By


Everything you need for your growing journey, all in one place.


ILGM, aka I Love Growing Marijuana, are reintroducing themselves. They’ve been one of the leading sources for cannabis seeds and expert growing knowledge for years, but the team at ILGM just isn’t the type to rest on their laurels. They’ve been working hard—and they have a newly refined, streamlined seed shopping experience to show for it. Oh, and did we mention their brand-new, dripped-out look?    

The new ILGM is a veritable treasure trove of expert knowledge that’ll help you find everything you need to help your seeds take root and grow strong.

Don’t get it twisted though, ILGM’s new vibe is way more than just a fresh coat of paint. It’s an entire reconceptualization of what an online home for cannabis growers should look like. The new ILGM is a veritable treasure trove of expert knowledge that’ll help you find everything you need to help your seeds take root and grow strong. Their commitment to helping newcomers embrace the craft of growing has never been more secure, and with their new look, more people than ever before can learn to love growing marijuana.

We were lucky enough to catch up with some of the visionaries guiding ILGM’s transformation, and we’ve got all the details on how they’re making ILGM the definitive home of the growers.

More than a seed bank

ILGM seeds
Image courtesy of ILGM.

2025 is set to be the year of the home grower, if ILGM’s new CEO Ernst Rustenhoven has anything to say about it. When he took the reigns of ILGM early last year, he came up with a plan to transform ILGM into a sleek, dynamic operation that better serves consumer needs.

“The cannabis industry is maturing, and so is the home-growing community. ILGM has been a pioneer in the online cannabis seed market for over a decade,” said Rustenhoven. “However, we realized we were not meeting changing consumer expectations and were stuck in the past.”

Holistic home-growing support for today’s grower

Rustenhoven and his expert team began to modernize ILGM by exploring what customers love about ILGM, and how they can do it even better. The home-growing community is larger than ever, but more isolated across different websites due to the social media terrain becoming more unfriendly to people looking to share photos, videos, and home-growing knowledge.

Related

Prepare for the outdoor grow season with Dosidos & more hit strains

“We are increasingly focused on being a platform that connects people and parties: Offering premium genetics from top-notch breeders to home-grow connoisseurs, providing content and resources from expert growers to beginners, and fostering connections among home growers both online and offline. We are here to serve our community and grow with it,” said Rustenhoven.

The best of the past, infused into a bright future

If you’re one of ILGM’s many devoted customers and all this talk of change is getting you a little nervous, relax. The new leadership at ILGM knows that one of their greatest resources is the accumulated knowledge of their robust home-growing community.

“Ensuring that ILGM offers access to a vibrant community of people that want to share their cannabis cultivation journey, and connect with fellow home growers, is a significant part of our mission going forward.” said the CEO.

Related

8 essential cannabis strains to grow at home

Rustenhoven and the team have taken incredible pains to keep the things that have earned ILGM their customer loyalty—like their famous germination guarantee, expert knowledge, and incredible deals—while jettisoning anything that wasn’t working. 

Ernst isn’t alone in his efforts, of course. He’s assembled a top-tier team of industry experts including growers, researchers, designers, and writers to overhaul ILGM and make it one of the very best resources for cannabis growers of all experience levels. The entire ILGM team is unified in their desire to revolutionize the ILGM experience and spread the joy of cannabis wider than ever before. 

A seed for every need

ILGM seeds
Image courtesy of ILGM.

ILGM has been one of the foremost sources of cannabis seeds globally for years, and the new ILGM has no plans to change that fact. What they are changing is basically everything else—how easy it is to buy seeds, get the expert knowledge you need to set your seeds up for success, and learn about strain genetics.

Seeds straight from the source

Before, researching a specific seed you had an eye on often sent cultivators to several different sites, but at the new ILGM, growers will have all the information they need to make an informed decision about your grow in one spot.  

Related

The best high-THC strains indoor growers need this year

The word is transparency—ILGM believes in being completely upfront about where your seeds are coming from, their genetic pedigree, and the type of results you can expect from a setup that resembles your own. As the cannabis industry has matured and growers of all stripes have become increasingly discerning, these sorts of details are increasingly demanded by the growing public, and ILGM loves giving the people what they want. Anything you could think of asking about these strains, you’ll find.

Craft cultivars from top breeders

ILGM focuses on supporting the breeders behind the genetics and the cultivators who depend on them.

Randy Hansen

When the team at ILGM says that they are the home of the growers, they mean it. ILGM features a wide range of seeds from stellar American growers in addition to their ever-reliable in-house brand. You’ll be able to find seeds from high-quality growers like Speedrun Seeds and Green Bodhi on the storefront, with offerings from Happy Valley Genetics and Certified Seeds coming soon. ILGM does the vetting to make sure these seeds are up to snuff, ensuring that every seed in their store is worthy of your grow by partnering with brands who meet their rigorous standards.

The man at the head of ILGM’s seed selection operations is Randy Hansen, an industry veteran with a passion for making connections with master cultivators. As the point person for ILGM’s US seed partnerships, his keen eye for quality cannabis ensures that only the finest seeds make it to ILGM’s store.

Related

The best cannabis strains for every type of grower

ILGM focuses on supporting the breeders behind the genetics and the cultivators who depend on them. We’re committed to elevating each breeder’s unique work, ensuring their genetics meet our high standards and that we, in turn, highlight the passion that goes into creating these craft cultivars,” said Hansen.

He and his team work diligently, examining terpene profiles, cannabinoid levels, and genetic stability to make ILGM’s seed selection one of the most robust and reliable in the industry. 

It takes a village

ILGM seeds
Image courtesy of ILGM.

In ILGM’s opinion, growing cannabis should be accessible, easy, and fun for anyone who wants to try their hand. They’re using this rebrand as an opportunity to refocus their content towards making sure that anyone can find what they need to make their home grow successful.

Information for every experience level

ILGM’s new head of content, Robert Nijhout, is crafting an environment where knowledge flows freely and all growers feel supported. Said Nijhout: “We want to make sure that our grow guides are clear and user-friendly for people from all walks of life without leaving any information on the table or simplifying anything in favor of accuracy.” 

No matter if this is your first time trying out your green thumb or your thousandth, ILGM wants you to feel at home. With Nijhout at the helm of the content department, ILGM will publish expert, high-level content for home growers with experience, but they will also take special care to expand the home-growing community by welcoming in first-time growers.

Related

Four essential autoflowering strains for beginner growers

“Starting out as a grower means facing a ton of questions—which strain to grow, where to set up, what soil or gear to use—it can feel overwhelming,” said Nijhout. “We get that because we’ve been there. That’s why we create content that answers those questions early, helping customers make informed choices from day one.”

One-on-one support

In addition to the incredible articles, grow guides, and videos outlining the art and science of cannabis cultivation that ILGM publishes now, they are almost ready to roll out a feature that will totally transform the online cannabis community.

Soon, ILGM customers will be able to set up direct one-on-one consultations with its in-house team of home grow success consultants,who can help diagnose and remedy ailments in even the most difficult of grows. These experts will be able to analyze your unique growing setup, taking into account things like climate and light conditions to troubleshoot your grow and get your plants back on track. This sort of personalized care just isn’t widely available to most growers, who will find ILGM to be an indispensable resource to increase yields and have more fun with their grow. 

The road ahead 

ILGM seeds
Image courtesy of ILGM.

While the new and improved ILGM is certainly very impressive, the team behind the reimagining isn’t even close to being finished. They have big plans to launch heaps of new features over the coming year in addition to the upcoming personalized consultation feature, making it even less stressful and more enjoyable to grow cannabis.

“We believe these initiatives, which are just the tip of the iceberg, will not only strengthen our existing community but also attract new members to the home-growing movement,” said Rustenhoven.

AI-powered growing assistant

So, what does the team have in store? One of the first features that ILGM will be launching in the near future is the world’s first custom-built AI-powered growing assistant. This AI was developed in-house by the team at ILGM, who trained the bot on decades of expert growing knowledge accumulated on the ILGM website. This AI will be fully integrated into the ILGM website, providing helpful, easy-to-follow advice 24/7 so you’re never alone in facing a growing emergency. 

Culture-driven content

ILGM will also be delivering even more quality content in the year ahead. “In the coming period, we’re excited to create content that sets up our home growers for success,” said Nijhout. They’ll be producing community-driven stories to get the pulse of the culture, in-depth cultivation podcasts that get granular on how to maximize your yields, and Q&As with master growers seeking to share their knowledge.

Home Grow Tour

To top it all off, they’re taking the show on the road and going on tour. Leading up to 4/20, weed’s biggest day, ILGM will be launching their nationwide Home Grow Tour, a massive jamboree to celebrate the love and care that the home-growing community brings to their hobby.

The tour will feature events designed to bring growers together with product launches, influencer meetups, grow classes, and much, much more. The itinerary featuring the specifics will launch soon, so keep an eye out on social media to see if one of the biggest tours cannabis has ever seen will make it to your neck of the woods.

With all of these exciting changes, ILGM is poised to completely revolutionize the seed-buying experience for home growers all over America. But don’t just take our word for it—head to the new ILGM website today and experience the transformation for yourself. With a renewed focus on community engagement and some incredible seeds from vetted partners on the shelves, ILGM is proud to be the Home of the Growers

ILGM seeds
Image courtesy of ILGM.

To keep updated on new features, strains, and events, you can head to ILGM’s website or follow them on Facebook and Instagram. You can also head to their YouTube channel for high-quality home-growing videos. Happy growing!


Availability subject to law.





Source link

Continue Reading

Growing

Best Cannabis Nutrients for Soil

Published

on

By


Cannabis is a versatile plant that can grow in a variety of conditions, but it does have specific nutrient requirements that vary depending on the strain and the stage of growth.

Here, we’ll help you choose the right nutrient mix for your plants and experience level.

Nutrient Requirements for Cannabis

When it comes to growing cannabis in soil, it’s important to understand the difference between macronutrients and micronutrients.

Cannabis requires both macronutrients (i.e. nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium) and micronutrients (i.e., calcium, sulfur, magnesium, copper, iron, manganese, molybdenum, and zinc) for successful growth.

Macronutrients are responsible for important functions such as photosynthesis, energy storage and transfer, and the development of strong roots and healthy foliage.

Micronutrients are responsible for functions such as enzyme production, chlorophyll formation, and overall plant metabolism.

Most commercially available soils have fertilizers and nutrients in them and will not usually require additional fertilizers and nutrients during the first month or two of growth.

Macro and Micronutrients

Marijuana plants depend on a set of essential elements in varying amounts. Nutrients needed in large amounts are called macronutrients, while micronutrients are needed in small amounts.

Feeding your plant the right amount of nutrients at the right time can prevent deficiencies.

cannabis nutreints for soil

Nitrogen (N)

Nitrogen is a critical macronutrient during the growing stage, especially the vegetative stage. Nitrogen enables chlorophyll to convert sunlight into energy, build proteins, and produce nucleic acid used by plant cells to replicate.

Phosphorus (P)

Phosphorus is another essential macronutrient that can help during the root formation to absorb all the necessary nutrients. Healthy roots are the foundation of strong cannabis stems, bud formation, and yield.

Potassium (K)

Potassium is known to aid in a plant’s water absorption. Potassium regulates the opening of the stomata, which are responsible for taking in CO2 and expelling water and oxygen. Potassium also helps produce ATP to make energy in the form of glucose for your plant.

NPK Ratio

If you’re shopping for cannabis nutrient products, you’ll notice every bottle features three numbered signs such as 2-1-6, 5-0-1, 0-5-4, and so on. These numbers are the ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, in that order.

It’s important to buy the right NPK ratio for different stages of plant growth. During the vegetative stage, cannabis plants require a higher level of nitrogen. During the flowering phase, marijuana plants will require an increase in phosphorus.

nutrient ratio for cannabis 1
marijuana nutrients nitrogen potassiu and phosphorus 2
cannabis nutrients for late flowering

Micronutrients for Cannabis

Magnesium

Magnesium is a vital micronutrient needed to help in the absorption of sunlight and the production of glucose needed for energy. Magnesium deficiencies can lead to yellow leaves, stem discoloration, and more.

Calcium

Calcium is another important micronutrient needed to support a plant’s cell walls. Calcium also aids in photosynthesis and the absorption of other nutrients.

Other Micronutrients

  • Cobalt
  • Sulfur
  • Zinc
  • Copper
  • Silicon
  • Boron
  • Chlorine
  • Manganese
  • Iron
  • Molybdenum

Cannabis Nutrients Deficiencies

Watch the plants closely for any changes or signs of nutrient deficiencies and disorders. Nutrient deficiencies in cannabis plants can offer when the plant is not receiving the necessary nutrients to grow and thrive.

These deficiencies can manifest in various ways, including stunted growth, discoloration of leaves, and overall poor health. Some of the most common nutrient deficiencies in cannabis plants include the following:

  • Nitrogen deficiency: Nitrogen is an essential macronutrient that is necessary for the production of chlorophyll and the growth of leaves and stems. A nitrogen deficiency can result in the yellowing of the lower leaves and slow growth.
  • Phosphorus deficiency: Phosphorus is essential for developing strong roots and healthy buds. A deficiency can result in slow growth, purple or reddish discoloration of the leaves, and small, poorly developed buds.
  • Potassium deficiency: Potassium is necessary for regulating water balance and overall plant health. A deficiency can cause yellowing around the leaf edges, wilting, and a lack of resistance to pests and diseases.
  • Iron deficiency: Magnesium is necessary to produce chlorophyll and overall plant metabolism. A deficiency can cause yellowing of the leaves, curled leaves, and lead to stunted growth.

It’s important to note that the symptoms of nutrient deficiencies can be similar to those caused by other issues, such as pests or diseases, so it’s important to properly diagnose the problem before attempting to treat it.

In addition, sometimes over-fertilization can lead to nutrient burn, which can cause similar symptoms as deficiency.

Soil-Based Products and Cannabis Nutrients

cannabis plants in soiled pots

Organic fertilizers and additives that can be used in soil-based systems are:

Nitrogen Amendments

Ammonia – (NH3) is a gas containing 82% nitrogen, often used as a foliar feed in its aqueous form. It is a highly concentrated form of nitrogen and can be used to quickly boost the soul’s nitrogen level. Use it with caution, as over application can lead to nutrient burn.

Cottonseed Meal -A byproduct resulting from oil extraction from cottonseed with a nitrogen content of 67%. Generally, it is used as a partial, slow-release nitrogen source in mixed fertilizers. It is also a good source of other nutrients such as potassium and phosphorus.

Blood Meal – Blood meal is a byproduct of the meatpacking industry and has a nitrogen content of 12 to 14%. The nitrogen is available quickly, but it does little for the mechanical properties of the soil.

Urea – Urea is a white crystalline compound containing 46% readily available nitrogen. This affordable form of nitrogen fertilizer is usually made from anhydrous ammonia (NH3) and is easy to handle, store and transport.

Fish Emulsion – Fish emulsion is prepared from non-edible fish and waste from fisheries. It has about 8% nitrogen. It is rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, and it is also a good source of micronutrients like zinc and iron.

Phosphate Amendments

Bone Meal – Two kinds: raw and steamed. Steamed bone meal has less nitrogen than raw, but more phosphoric acid. This material releases its nutrients slowly so it can be used without fear of injuring the crop.

Rock Phosphate – Mineral occurring in deposits throughout the world. Its effectiveness is dependant on its degree of fineness and the reaction of the soil. It’s a slow-release fertilizer and it can take a long time to break down and become available to the plants.

Super Phosphate – A source of phosphoric acid in complete fertilizers and a direct treatment of soils deficient in phosphorous but well supplied with nitrogen and potassium. It’s a fast-acting fertilizer and it’s a good source of phosphorus, but it can cause an increase in soil pH.

Slag – Finely ground byproduct of steel manufacture. Its free lime content makes it of special value in the reclamation of acid soils. It’s a slow-release fertilizer and it can help to improve soil structure.

Potassium Amendments

Wood ashes – Rapidly absorbable form of potassium that will raise pH because it is alkaline. It’s important to be aware that wood ashes also contain high levels of salts that can be harmful if not used in moderation.

Seaweed – Contains a host of macro- and micro-nutrients, helps in water retention and absorption, and aids in weed prevention.

Growth and Flowering Supplements and Additives

There are more cannabis growth supplements, bloom supplements and stimulants, root stimulators and additives available than can be easily described here.

All supplements and additives must be added with caution to prevent any nutrient disorders, over-fertilization or nutrient burns. We will provide an overview of what is commonly available.

Fulvic Acid – used as a growth stimulator. Full acid is a natural acidic organic polymer that is extracted from humus found in soil, sediment, or aquatic environments.

Humic Acid – a principal component of humid substances, which are the major organic constituents of soil, peat, coal, many upland streams, lakes and ocean water. It is produced by biodegradation of dead organic matter. It is not a single acid; rather, it is a complex mixture of many different acids.

Gibberellic Acid – a hormone found in and extracted from plants. It is a naturally occurring plant growth regulator, which may cause a variety of effects including increasing the number and size of buds and the stimulation of seed germination.

Amino Acid – the key elements are carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen. Amino acids are critical to life and have many functions in metabolism. One particularly important function is to serve as the building blocks of proteins.

Enzymes – proteins that increase or decrease the rates of chemical reactions. At this time there are limited products available that claim to promote the use of enzymes for improving and increasing the growth of medical cannabis.

Carbohydrates – plants require sugar and carbohydrates in order to have enough energy for intense flowering periods and rigorous growth. The logical solution would be to just add sugar to the nutrient solution right? Many have tried this and often molasses is used as a simple sugar additive. The problem with this is that the sugar is not as easily taken-in by plants in this form.

It is better to add a carbohydrate additive, which is designed to make these carbohydrate supplements easier for the plant to take in. 

By using these additives, a grower can expect the plants to have sweeter tasting fruits, increase their essential oils, and nourish the plants to prepare them for intense flowering periods. If possible look for a carbohydrate additive that is organic, and combines easily with the rest of the nutrients being used.

Silica Based Products – promote healthier and stronger plant growth. When the roots take up silica, it is deposited in the cell walls of the plant as a solid, rigid ‘quartz-like’ matrix. This produces a ‘mechanically’ stronger plant, which enables superior leaf orientation and therefore greater rates of photosynthesis and growth.

It increases the weight and shelf life of fruit due to the physical accumulation of silica in plant cells. Silica increases a plant’s tolerance to heat stress or “wilting”.  It also increases resistance to fungal diseases, particularly mildews and botrytis. It resists fungal ingress by accumulating around the points of fungal attack.

Silica improves the healing rate and neatness of pruning wounds. This property is especially beneficial in commercial cropping of plants such as medical cannabis. Regular pruning of these species threatens the plant’s survival due to the risk of disease penetration through the site of the pruning wound.

Finally, silica increases a plant’s tolerance to nuisance chemicals such as sodium and chloride.

Vitamin Supplements – help a plant feel better when stressed and keep a plant healthy.  Vitamins will help with resistance to fungal rots and insect attacks. While plants normally manufacture vitamins for themselves, if they have an external additional supply of them, they can then turn their energy to producing other elements they need, and thereby speed up growth.

Minerals – There are many minerals that are either required by the needs of the plant or are beneficial for improving the growth of the plant.  Below are a few descriptions of minerals available for use.
Calcium-when added to the plants nutrient solution or to the soil it will improve the efficiency of nutrient uptake and encourage superior flowering.

Calcium – when added to the plant’s nutrient solution or to the soil it will improve the efficiency of nutrient uptake and encourage superior flowering.

Citric Acids – can be added as a chelator (binder) for improved availability and plant uptake of nutrients and fertilizers.

Sulfur Based Additives – will activate enzymes, process compost and manure fertilizers, liberate roots systems and help balance soil pH.

Mycorrhiza – this is the relationship between the plant roots and beneficial fungi.  Mycorrhizal products increase plant growth, nutrient and water uptake and improve soil structure.

Mixing Growing Medium (soil)

There are many commercially available soil mixes online or at a local grow supply stores that have been specifically developed for growing cannabis both indoors and outdoors.

For the experienced grower who chooses to mix their own soil, consider using this as a starting point for creating cannabis grow medium (soil):

  • 50% Premium Potting Soil
  • 20% Bat Guano High Phosphate Fertilizer
  • 10% Organic Seafood Fertilizer
  • 10% Perlite
  • 05% Sand (optional)
  • 05% Organic Mix roots, bark, etc.

Add more if a deficiency occurs in flowering.  It is highly doubtful that it will, but if it does, use a diluted foliar feed.

  • 3 lbs. Bone Meal
  • 1 cup Dolomite Lime
  • 2 tbsp. Humic acids are highly recommended.

Apply as recommended per the manufacturer’s instructions.

  • 5 lbs. Bat guano
  • 2 five-gallon scoops of Perlite

It is recommended that all the ingredients be mixed together in a large barrel with a tight fitting lid, so as not to breathe in any dust or particles.

Roll the barrel around to mix the ingredients. If mixing the grow medium without a barrel with a lid and instead mixing the ingredients in an open container, a particle or dust mask must be worn.

Slightly moisten the ingredients to help avoid creating too much airborne dust and particles as the ingredients are mixed.

Start You Garden Today with Online Cannabis Training

Starting an indoor or outdoor cannabis garden can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience, but it is important to have a solid understanding of the plant’s specific nutrient requirements. By enrolling at Cannabis Training University (CTU), you will gain the knowledge and skills needed to successfully grow your own cannabis.

CTU offers a wide range of courses for individuals of all experience levels, from beginner to advanced. Whether you are interested in growing cannabis for personal use or for a commercial operation, CTU’s comprehensive curriculum will provide you with the training and resources you need to be successful.

To learn how to grow robust, healthy cannabis plants from seed to harvest, enroll in Cannabis Training University’s marijuana courses.

Luis Cordova

Luis Cordova

Luis Cordova is a distinguished author, and renowned expert in cannabis cultivation, who possesses a Master’s degree in Plant Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Science. As a valued contributor to highly esteemed publications such as Cannabis Training University and Maximum Yield Magazine, Luis has emerged as a trusted source of guidance and knowledge in the cannabis industry. Having written thousands of informative articles, Luis is widely recognized for his comprehensive expertise on cultivating cannabis, both indoors and outdoors.





Source link

Continue Reading

Growing

Best Temperatures For Growing Cannabis Indoors

Published

on

By


What is the perfect environment for growing plants and producing high-quality cannabis? When growing cannabis, temperature can be manipulated for optimal results.

Optimal indoor temperatures are crucial for a thriving cannabis crop. The best conditions will enhance both potency and yield.

This guide will explain how temperature affects your cannabis and how you can control it.

Optimal Temperatures For Growing Cannabis Indoors

Cannabis plants can thrive in various environments and still yield high-quality yields. However, when growing cannabis indoors, it is crucial to provide optimal conditions to compensate for the absence of natural sunlight, which is essential for the plant’s health.

Although lighting solutions can simulate natural sunlight, indoor cannabis plants often end up being less hardy than their outdoor counterparts.

With that in mind, utilizing temperature control to help your indoor plants thrive is imperative for indoor marijuana success.

a chart of the ideal temperatures for growing cannabis indoors

Seedling Stage

Seedlings are delicate and require a stable, warm environment to encourage healthy root development and early growth.

Ideal temperature:

  • Day temperature (lights on): 70-75° (21-24°C)
  • Night temperature (lights off): 60-65° (16-18°C)

Vegetative Stage

The ideal temperature for a cannabis indoor grow during the vegetative stage is 70-85°F. This range is optimal as it promotes efficient photosynthesis and robust plant growth.

Varied temperatures that are too high or low will lower the rate of photosynthesis, and the growth rate of the plant itself.

Cooler night temperatures help mimic natural outdoor conditions.

When the lights are off, it’s best to have a temperature that is around 10° lower than the daytime temperature. So if you keep your grow room at 75° when the lights are on, aim for 65° when they are off.

Ideal Temperature:

  • Day temperature (lights on): 70-85°F (21-29°C)
  • Night temperature (lights off): 60-75°F (16-24°C)

Flowering Stage

In outdoor growing operations, cannabis plants flower in the Autumn when temperatures start to drop.

This ideal flowering temperature is somewhere around 65-80°F. The same 10° differential from light and dark is optimal as well, just as when in a vegetative stage.

This flowering temperature allows terpene and cannabinoid maturation. Too high temperatures can degrade sensitive terpenes, which will affect the flavor, aroma, and high of cannabis.

Manipulating your grow room temperature for flowering can also bring out purple, blue, and pink colors in the buds themselves when the temperature is low enough.

Ideal Temperature:

  • Day temperature (lights on): 65-80°F (18-26°C)
  • Night temperature (lights off): 55-70°F (13-21°C)

Late Flowering Stage

In the final weeks of the flowering stage, maintaining cooler temperatures can enhance color expression in the buds and further boost resin production.

Ideal Temperature:

  • Day temperature (lights on): 65-75°F (18-24°C)
  • Night temperature (lights off): 55-65°F (13-18°C)

Ideal Humidity Levels For Growing Weed Indoors

Discussing temperature without discussing humidity would be incomplete. Temperature and humidity are closely linked.

Variations in either can significantly impact plant health. Both factors must be carefully managed in order to have an optimal grow.

a chart of the ideal humidity levels when growing cannabis indoors

Higher humidity levels during the seedling stage help young plants retain moisture and develop strong roots.

During the vegetative stage plants benefit from moderately high humidity, which supports vigorous growth and healthy leaf development.

Slightly lower humidity during the flowering stage reduces the risk of mold and mildew while still supporting robust bud development.

Lower humidity levels in the final weeks help to prevent mold and promote the production of dense, resinous buds.

Problems From Temperatures Too Low For Indoor Growing

Too low of temperatures in indoor grow rooms can lead to a handful of problems.

Cold temperatures can slow down the metabolic processes in cannabis plants, leading to stunted growth and delayed development.

At too low of temperatures, plants may struggle to absorb nutrients effectively, leading to deficiencies and poor health.

Lower temperatures can slow down the rate of photosynthesis, diminishing the plant’s energy production and overall health.

Cold temperatures can hinder the production of essential oils and resins, affecting the quality and potency of the final product.

Problems From Temperatures Too High For Indoor Growing

Having a grow room temperature too high is much more common for indoor cannabis growers.

A marijuana growing temperature above optimal will increase the risk for pests like spider mites and diseases like powdery mildew.

Cannabis grow lights can put off a lot of heat that can create hot pockets directly below the lights. Proper air circulation and ventilation are crucial when the grow lights are on.

Keeping your cannabis grow room cool enough will be an ongoing job for indoor marijuana producers.

How To Control The Temperature In Your Grow Room

Learning how to control grow room temperature and humidity will make or break your indoor cannabis grow.

You can find the ideal temp for indoor grow room operations with a variety of appliances:

  • Air Conditioner
  • Space Heater
  • Humidifier
  • Evaporative Cooler
  • Dehumidifier
  • Fans

Air conditioners and evaporative coolers lower the temperature. Evaporative coolers also raise humidity levels.

Space heaters heat the room. Combination units that control humidity can raise or lower humidity based on the relative humidity of the cannabis grow room.

Fans don’t change the temperature. Instead, they keep air circulating and help you avoid hot and cold spots.

You may need some or all of these for optimal indoor marijuana growing conditions.

Get Your Cannabis Temperature Right!

Achieving the best temperature for marijuana is ideal for growing the best possible bud indoors. Managing your grow temperature with a variety of appliances is your best bet to ensure ideal indoor marijuana growing conditions.

If you want to learn about growing weed indoors and how to optimize the process, keep learning with us here at Cannabis Training University!


Luis Cordova

Luis Cordova

Luis Cordova is a distinguished author, and renowned expert in cannabis cultivation, who possesses a Master’s degree in Plant Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Science. As a valued contributor to highly esteemed publications such as Cannabis Training University and Maximum Yield Magazine, Luis has emerged as a trusted source of guidance and knowledge in the cannabis industry. Having written thousands of informative articles, Luis is widely recognized for his comprehensive expertise on cultivating cannabis, both indoors and outdoors.



Source link

Continue Reading
Advertisement

Trending

Copyright © 2021 The Art of MaryJane Media