During the flowering stage of growth, your cannabis plants will start to produce the buds that are prized by growers and consumers alike. This stage typically lasts for 6-12 weeks, depending on the strain and growing conditions. In this section, we'll cover the key aspects of the flowering stage, including lighting, nutrients, and harvesting.
Lighting
During the flowering stage, your cannabis plants will require 12 hours of uninterrupted darkness per day to trigger the flowering process. This can be achieved by either adjusting your grow lights or covering your plants with a light-proof material during the dark period. Be sure to keep your lights at the proper distance from your plants to avoid burning or bleaching the buds.
Nutrients
Your cannabis plants will require different nutrients during the flowering stage than they did during the vegetative stage. In particular, phosphorus and potassium are essential for flower development and bud growth. You can use a high-phosphorus, low-nitrogen fertilizer or organic amendments, such as bone meal or bat guano, to provide your plants with the nutrients they need.
Temperature and Humidity
Humidity levels can play a crucial role in the success of your cannabis plants during the flowering stage. High humidity levels can promote mold and mildew growth, while low humidity levels can cause your plants to dry out and stress. Aim to maintain a humidity level of around 40-50% during the flowering stage. You can achieve this by using a dehumidifier or humidifier, depending on the ambient humidity in your grow room.
Maintaining the proper temperature during the flowering stage is important for the health and potency of your buds. Aim for a temperature range of 65-80°F (18-27°C) during the day and 55-70°F (13-21°C) at night. High temperatures can cause your buds to dry out and lose potency, while low temperatures can slow down the growth process and lead to mold and mildew growth.
Tips for success
- Control humidity levels to prevent mold and mildew growth.
- Avoid handling your buds too much, as this can damage the delicate trichomes.
- Flush your plants with plain water for 1-2 weeks before harvest to remove excess nutrients and improve flavor.
- Be patient - some strains may take longer to mature than others.
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