We have more in common with plants than you might think.
We go through different stages of growth—infant, child, adolescent, and adult—and so do our cannabis plants.
And they have different needs during each of the cannabis growing stages.
If you want your marijuana plants to grow strong and deliver fat buds, you need to understand those needs.
Keep reading for a complete rundown of the marijuana plant growth stages and what to expect from each one. We will also cover the unique needs of your plants during each stage.
Contents
Cannabis Growing Stages
From the delicate germination and seedling stages, through the bulk-gaining vegetative stage, to the all-important and eagerly anticipated flowering stage, you and your cannabis plants are about to embark on a journey together, and here’s what you can expect at each stage of the way.
Germination Stage
The germination stage is the very beginning of a cannabis plant’s journey. It refers to the process of a seed transitioning into a seedling, where it starts to sprout and develop its first set of leaves. Understanding this stage is crucial for successful cannabis cultivation.
During germination, the seed absorbs water, which triggers the activation of enzymes and the growth of the embryonic plant inside. The purpose of germination is to kickstart the growth process and allow the seedling to emerge from its protective shell, ready to develop into a mature plant.
Several factors can influence the success of germination. These include:
- Moisture: Seeds need adequate moisture to germinate, but excessive moisture can lead to rot.
- Temperature: Optimal temperatures for germination usually range between 70° and 85° F (21° to 29° C).
- Light: While cannabis seeds don’t require light to germinate, providing a low-intensity light source can help guide the emerging seedling towards the surface.
How To Germinate Cannabis Seeds
Begin by choosing high-quality cannabis seeds from reputable seed banks. Then, before planting, soak the seeds in a glass of distilled water or between moist paper towels for 24 to 48 hours.
Next, gently place the germinated seeds in your preferred growing medium, such as a seedling tray or small pots, ensuring they are buried at a depth of about 1/2 inch (1.3 cm).
Place the planted seeds in a warm and humid environment with temperatures around 75° F (24° C) and humidity levels between 70% and 90%, and wait. Your new seedlings should begin to poke their heads above the soil line within a few days, but it may take a little longer too.
Seedling Stage
The seedling stage of marijuana plants is a little more exciting. Your plants begin to establish themselves and become recognizable as cannabis plants.
During this stage, the seedlings develop their first true leaves and start to grow in size. Understanding the characteristics and requirements of seedlings is crucial for their healthy development.
Seedlings typically emerge from the soil with a pair of cotyledon leaves, which are embryonic leaves. As they grow, the first set of true leaves will appear. The seedling stage usually lasts for about two to three weeks, depending on the strain and environmental conditions.
Provide seedlings with a light source that emits a spectrum suitable for vegetative growth. Keep the lights at a distance of about 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 cm) to prevent heat stress. Aim for a temperature range of 70° to 75° F (21° to 24° C) during the day and slightly cooler temperatures at night.
During the seedling stage, seedlings primarily rely on the nutrients stored in the seed. Therefore, it’s crucial to avoid overfeeding.
Start with a light nutrient solution, diluted to about 25% of the recommended strength, and gradually increase as the seedlings mature and gain height. Apply the nutrient solution every other watering or as needed, ensuring the soil is not saturated.
Common Seedling Problems
To give your new crop its best start in life, keep an eye on your seedlings and in particular watch for these two common issues.
Stretching
If seedlings become tall and spindly – sometimes called ‘leggy’ – it is a sign of insufficient light. Adjust the light source to provide more intensity or lower the lights closer to the plants.
Nutrient Burn
Overfeeding seedlings can lead to nutrient burn, which manifests as yellowing or browning tips on the leaves. Flush with water and then adjust the nutrient strength and monitor the seedlings’ response.
Vegetative Stage
The vegetative stage is a critical period in cannabis cultivation. It is when plants focus on developing sturdy stems, lush foliage, and a strong root system that can support healthy bud development.
Understanding your plants’ requirements during this stage is essential for promoting healthy growth and maximizing your final yield.
During the vegetative stage, cannabis plants experience their most rapid growth. They focus on building a strong foundation before transitioning to the all-important flowering stage.
This stage is crucial for establishing a healthy plant structure, increasing leaf mass, and developing a robust root system, all of which contribute to higher yields during the flowering stage.
Provide your plants with a light source that emits a spectrum suitable for vegetative growth, including blue and white light. Aim for a light cycle of 18-24 hours of light per day.
Maintain temperatures between 70° and 80° F (21° and 27° C) during the day and slightly cooler temperatures at night. Humidity levels should be around 50% to 70% to prevent excessive moisture and mold growth.
During the vegetative stage, cannabis plants require higher levels of nitrogen (N) to support vigorous growth. Use a balanced nutrient solution with higher nitrogen content, following the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Feed the plants every 1 to 2 weeks, ensuring the soil is adequately moist but not waterlogged. Monitor the plants for signs of nutrient deficiencies or excesses, such as discoloration of the leaves, and adjust the feeding schedule accordingly.
Also ensure proper airflow within the grow space to prevent the development of mold and pests. Use oscillating fans or an exhaust system to maintain good air circulation, and make it a habit to regularly inspect your plants for pests and signs of disease.
Our guide to vegging cannabis has much more on this stage of growth
Flowering Stage
The flowering stage is the most exciting and important phase in cannabis cultivation, as your plants transition from vegetative growth to the production of flowers and those eagerly-awaited fat buds.
During the flowering stage, cannabis plants shift their focus from vegetative growth to reproductive development. Female plants produce flowers, also known as buds, which contain the cannabinoids and terpenes sought after by cannabis enthusiasts.
This stage is significant, since it determines the size, potency, and overall quality of the harvested buds.
While auto-flowering varieties will enter this stage when they reach a certain size, photo-period plants require 12 hours of darkness to begin flowering. To initiate the flowering stage for photo-period plants, adjust the lighting schedule to 12 hours of uninterrupted darkness and 12 hours of light.
Use a light spectrum rich in red and orange wavelengths to promote flower development. Maintain temperatures around 68° to 78° F (20° to 25° C) during the day and slightly cooler temperatures at night. Reduce humidity levels to around 40% to 50% to prevent mold and bud rot.
During flowering, cannabis plants require a different nutrient balance, with a decreased need for nitrogen (N) and increased demand for phosphorus (P) and potassium (K).
Use a bloom-specific nutrient formula and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for the appropriate feeding schedule. Monitor the plants for signs of nutrient deficiencies or excesses and adjust the nutrient strength accordingly.
As always, especially if growing outdoors, keep an eye out for cannabis pests. Pests and diseases can be particularly damaging during the flowering stage, when the plants are most vulnerable.
Implement preventive measures, such as regular inspection, maintaining a clean growing environment, and using organic pest control methods.
Harvesting And Drying
You’re almost ready to enjoy the fruits of your labor. You just need to harvest, dry, and cure your buds before you can enjoy their effects.
But, determining the right time to harvest your cannabis plants is important for achieving optimal potency and flavor. Look for the following signs to know when to harvest your marijuana buds.
- Trichome color: Check the trichomes (tiny resin glands) on the buds using a magnifying glass. When they turn milky white or amber, it indicates the peak time for harvest.
- Pistil color: Pay attention to the pistils (hairs) on the buds. When they change from white to darker colors like orange or brown, it’s a sign of maturity.
After harvesting your buds and trimming them, drying and curing are the next steps to enhance the flavor, aroma, and overall quality of your cannabis buds. After air drying, cure your buds by placing them in glass jars, filling them about 75% full.
Open the jars daily for the first week to release excess moisture and then gradually reduce the frequency. Store the jars in a cool, dark place with temperatures around 60° to 70° F (15° to 21° C) and humidity levels between 55% and 65% for between one and two months.
If you find your buds don’t smell the way you’d like, there are a number of possible causes. We have an article that discusses what you can do about buds losing smell before harvest.
Growing Stages Of Cannabis Plants: Final Thoughts
The cannabis growing journey encompasses several crucial stages, each demanding specific care and attention to ensure successful cultivation.
From the initial germination stage, where seeds sprout and develop into seedlings, to the subsequent vegetative stage focused on building a strong foundation and lush foliage, and finally the eagerly anticipated flowering stage where the plants transition to reproductive development, every phase requires meticulous nurturing.
Understanding the unique requirements of each cannabis growing stage, such as temperature, light, nutrients, and pest control, is essential for promoting healthy growth and maximizing the final yield.
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