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Living Soil and Cannabis: Stimulate Plant Resilience

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Living soil is the most natural soil you can get for your plants because it thrives with beneficial microorganisms and is rich in nutrients. If you decide to work with living soil in cannabis cultivation, you can expect resilient plants with a great terpene profile – but there are also some challenges.

Soil is the foundation of life — especially plant life. Rich in nutrients, it gives plants the essential elements for healthy growth and bolsters their resilience against pests and diseases. In nature, the earth is brimming with tiny microscopic lifeforms, which are an integral part of the ecosystem. 

When cultivating plants like cannabis, growers can use a variety of different potting soil, often comprised of plant materials, including peat, coir, bark, or minerals like vermiculite. Living organisms are relatively rare in these ready-made potting soils, and nutrients must be constantly added as fertilizers to keep the plants healthy throughout their growing cycle.

An alternative to this is living soil, which is richer in living organisms and closer to nature. Growing cannabis with living soil can be very fruitful, and many growers swear by it. 

What is living soil?

Living soil is rich in microorganisms. These microscopic life forms live together in a soil food web, which is a complex and intricate food chain. This self-sustaining life cycle leads to a greater variety of nutrients in the earth. The plants that grow here are not only beneficiaries of the earth; they live in symbiosis with the other inhabitants. 

Plants release carbon and sugars into the soil, which the microorganisms can feed on. In exchange, the organisms produce essential nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus, which the plant can take up through its roots and grow. Everybody wins!

The organisms in living soil 

The seven principal inhabitants of living soil are:

1. Bacteria

These microscopic one-celled organisms break down organic matter, release and recycle nutrients into the soil. Their secretions help to bind together soil particles promoting the formation of so-called micro aggregates in the soil, improving its structure. You could find between 100 million and 1 billion bacteria in one teaspoon of living soil. Soil with a diverse composition of bacteria leads to a more robust and resilient ecosystem and improved plant growth.

2. Fungi 

Mycorrhizal fungi are critical symbiotic partners of plants and essential for an active soil community. Their hyphae – thin, rootlike structures – grow in the earth and serve practically as extensions to the plant’s roots. They enhance the uptake of water and nutrients like phosphorus. Fungi also help with the decomposing of organic matter. In exchange, plants provide the fungi with carbohydrates, making a perfect trade-off.

3. Protozoa 

Protozoa are single-celled life forms and belong to the domain of eukaryotes. They feed on organic matter like bacteria and organic tissues in the soil, which makes them microbial grazers. Their consumption helps to keep the population of microorganisms in balance. At the same time, protozoa release essential nutrients, especially nitrogen, into the soil.

4. Nematodes

Nematodes are microscopic roundworms, about one millimetre in length. While some have a bad rep for being pests for cannabis plants, other kinds are the exact opposite. Beneficial nematodes deal with some of the worst pests of the cannabis plants, like fungus gnats, fleas and other unwanted bugs, by preying on their larvae.

5. Arthropods

These are all kinds of bugs, insects, and other many-legged creatures, such as springtails, mites and millipedes. They break down organic matter and serve as a food source for each other and larger inhabitants. While moving through the soil, they create channels that improve aeration and water infiltration.

6. Algae

Algae do not only live in water, and they are also ubiquitous in the ground. These terrestrial algae perform photosynthesis, produce oxygen, and contribute to nutrient cycling, nourishing the soil food web. Some algae species fix atmospheric nitrogen, making it accessible to plants. Additionally, algae can bind soil particles, improving soil structure and stability. They are, therefore, a tremendous environmental help for cannabis plant growth.

7. Earthworms

Earthworms are often called tunnel workers of the soil or even ecosystem engineers. They burrow through the soil, move it around and create tunnels through which air and water can flow. Earthworms decompose organic matter, eat unwanted pests and turn them into nutrient-rich castings. Every living soil profits from these helpful friends.

The importance of soil structure

The soil structure is defined by how loose or tight the soil particles combine into larger clusters. Keeping an eye on the soil structure is crucial for optimal water-holding capacity, efficient gas exchange, and enough space for root penetration. Conditions such as insufficient oxygen, excessive moisture, and inaccessible nutrients can occur without proper soil structure.

The major components of living soil

The four main components of living soil are:

1. Organic matter

The organic parts of living soil include the aforementioned microorganisms, as well as living and dead plant matter. This can be fallen leaves, moss, ancient peat or turf, humus, compost, and animal dung. Organic matter comprises the majority of nutrients for the food soil web, holds water and is vital for the structure. Organic matter can make up 10-20% of the soil mass.

2. Minerals

Minerals come from the bedrocks out of which the soil was originally formed. They can be classified as carbonates, phosphates, oxides, and silicates and contain macro-nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, as well as trace elements such as iron and zinc. Minerals contribute to soil structure, influencing water-holding capacity, aeration, and soil health.

3. Water

Water is a crucial component of living soil – as it is for all life. It dissolves nutrients, making them accessible to plant roots, and enables the physiological and chemical processes needed for plant growth. Of course, it also supports the microorganisms. Without water, the soil is not much more than dead dust. 

4. Air

The loose surface structure of living soil allows air to enter it and enables the lower parts of plants to breathe. The air within the soil is more humid than the air we breathe and has a higher carbon dioxide (CO2) content, which is the plant’s primary carbon source. Oxygen (O2) is especially vital for the growth of plant roots.

Where to buy living soil

You can purchase living soils from various vendors online or in grow centres. When choosing the right product, here is what to look for:

  • A reputable and trusted seller
  • The ingredients; see if there are any added microorganisms and fungi
  • A suitable pH; around six is optimal for cannabis
  • Certifications for organic, eco-friendly manufacture

How to make living soil

You can also make living soil by getting your hands dirty, experimenting with different mixtures, and discovering the perfect mix for your garden. 

Ingredients of living soil: 

The first step is to make a base mix from dry materials like peat moss, coco coir, ready-made base mix, and compost. Add a soil amendment that will help aerate the mix. For this, perlite or pumice is excellent. Start with potting soil as a base mix, and add water to create the desired density.

Next, add more biological organisms through amendments, inoculations, and organisms. 

An essential ingredient is earthworm castings, but there are many kinds of nutrient-rich meals, including plants like alfalfa, and animal-based supplements, like fish and bone. There is also the possibility to brew a rich compost tea with nutritious ingredients and add this to the mix.

Creating living soil is not a one-day job. After you have made your mix, you should let it rest for a week or two, so the organisms can develop. When cultivating cannabis in living soil, regularly check the pH and make sure your plants get the right amount of macronutrients nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K), as well as calcium, magnesium, and boron. 

Due to the wide variety of microorganisms in living soil, it does not need as much water as other growing mediums, so be careful, as it is easy to overwater. After harvesting, your living soil can be kept alive and reused numerous times.

Using living soil for indoor and outdoor cannabis growing 

So should you use living soil to grow cannabis? 

If you are growing outdoors, the answer is straightforward. Your cannabis plants become a part of the ecosystem, and of course, the soil should be as alive as possible. If you want outstanding harvests, it might be advisable, depending on the conditions of your soil, to enhance it first with some external living soil or add nutrient solutions. 

For this, you should do a soil test first to learn about the pH level, composition and nutrient content. Then you can add amendments, organic matter and microbes. You can add mulch as straw, wood chips, or leaves to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Watch your soil over time and add amendments to maintain its health. 

Regarding indoor cultivation, living soil is one option you might want to consider. Growing with living soil is closer to nature and, if rightly cared for, will create an environment that is more nutritious, self-sufficient and resilient. If you will, living soil is more organic and holistic than the more technical and systematic approach, where you measure the composition of your soil and the nutrient supply.

The benefits of using living soil for cannabis plants

1. Enhanced nutrient availability

The diverse microbial population in the living soil helps to maintain a natural supply of nutrients, promotes optimal plant growth and reduces the need for synthetic fertilizers.

2. Improved plant health and resilience

Plants and microorganisms work together in symbiosis. Ideally, this relationship forms a small ecosystem, meaning it has better defences against pests, diseases and environmental stress. The nutrient and water uptake is improved, which enhances root growth and leads to healthier plants. 

3. Better terpene and cannabinoid profiles

Cannabis plants grown in nutritious living soil tend to produce high levels of terpenes, cannabinoids, and flavonoids. This means your plant product can get more aromatic, flavourful and potent. 

4. Less watering

 Water retention is better than less enriched soils because the living soil is rich in organic matter, minerals, and beneficial microorganisms. This means less need for watering.

5. Investment

The initial cost for ready-made living soil is higher than standard potting soil, but it can be worth the investment over time. Living soil can be used over and over again, and at the same time, you need fewer synthetic nutrients, fertilizers, and pest control measures.

6. Environmental sustainability

Growing with living soil is closer to an organic and natural process. The more self-sustaining the system is, the fewer bottled fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides you need for optimal health. Furthermore, the more often the soil is used correctly, the better it gets.

Challenges of growing cannabis with living soil

One of the first downsides you might encounter when shopping for living soils for cannabis growing is the initial price. Living soils tend to be more on the pricey side compared to regular soils. However, you should be aware that when you stick with the living soil method, you might get more than your money’s worth since it can be reused multiple times.

You will have to adjust your methods when you are used to growing your plants with regular soil or hydroponic methods. Growing with living soil is more of an organic practice, which means that you, as a gardener, do not have many options to adjust the flow of nutrients, like adding liquid fertilizers. 

For beginners, there is a pretty steep learning curve. Growing cannabis with living soil means learning about creating or finding the optimal soil mix for your specific needs. You should care for and maintain the growing ecosystem during your cultivation. Like with other methods, you must closely monitor what is happening in your soil, including the pH and water concentration. 

Unwanted visitors are, unfortunately, a problem you might have to deal with, mainly if you use living soil that is self-made from compost. You might bring a population of aphids or other pests in with the mix. Also, seeds from other plants might be inside the mix and germinate. One solution here is to heat up and cook compost before mixing it in, although this also kills a lot of the beneficial life. A more natural method for dealing with pests in living soil is to promote the growth of predatory organisms, like mites.

There are some downsides when it comes to living soil, especially for indoor growing. However, many growers who have taken up the challenge successfully say that the pros, like the excellent terpene profile and the environmental benefits, vastly outweigh the initial difficulties.

Using living soil in cannabis cultivation: nature-oriented, challenging, and rewarding

Living soil is a nutrient-rich growing medium filled with diverse microorganisms, all contributing to the soil’s health and fertility. It creates a symbiotic relationship with plants, enhancing their resilience and nutrient uptake.

Growing with living soil offers a nature-oriented approach to cannabis cultivation, reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers and artificial pesticides. It enhances the resilience of plants, improves nutrient availability, and can lead to fantastic terpene and cannabinoid profiles. 

Have you tried growing with living soil before, or do you have advice for those looking to try living soil? Let us know in the comments below, and until next time, happy growing!

  • 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.



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Meet the new and improved home of the growers, ILGM

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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.





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Best Cannabis Nutrients for Soil

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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.





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Best Temperatures For Growing Cannabis Indoors

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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.



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