The 420 Gardener
1. Understanding Autoflowering Genetics: Autoflowering cannabis strains are hybrids of Cannabis sativa or indica and Cannabis ruderalis. The ruderalis genetics grant the plant its autoflowering capabilities, meaning it will flower based on age, not light exposure. This is key for new growers to understand as it simplifies the growing process significantly.
2. Selecting the Right Strain: Choosing the right autoflowering strain is essential. As a beginner, look for strains that are known for their resilience and ease of growth. Some popular beginner-friendly autoflower strains include Northern Lights Auto, Blue Dream Auto, and Gorilla Glue Auto. These strains are not only forgiving but also offer robust yields and high resistance to common pests and diseases.
3. Soil and Container Setup: Autoflowers thrive in light, airy soil that allows for good drainage. A common recommendation for beginners is to use a pre-mixed potting soil designed for cannabis cultivation, enriched with perlite for enhanced drainage. Containers should provide ample space for root growth; however, unlike regular strains, autoflowers do better in slightly smaller pots (5-10 gallons) which can help avoid overwatering.
4. Watering Wisely: Overwatering is a common mistake among new growers. Autoflowers require less water than their photoperiod counterparts, primarily due to their smaller size and the rapid pace of their life cycle. It’s crucial to water them only when the top inch of the soil feels dry. Ensuring proper drainage is also vital to prevent root rot.
5. Nutrient Needs: Autoflowers have a shorter vegetative stage and generally do not require as heavy feeding as regular cannabis plants. Using a balanced, light nutrient solution specifically designed for cannabis can help avoid nutrient burn. Start with half the recommended dose and adjust based on the plant’s response.
6. Light Schedule Simplicity: One of the significant advantages of autoflowers is their flexibility in light schedules. They can thrive under almost any light regimen but generally perform best under a 20/4 schedule (20 hours of light and 4 hours of darkness). This constant exposure maximizes growth without the need for adjustment, making lighting one of the easiest aspects of growing autoflowers.
7. Timely Harvest: Since autoflowers complete their life cycle quickly, timing your harvest right is crucial. Most autoflowers are ready to harvest 10 weeks from seed. Pay attention to the trichomes; when most of the clear trichomes have turned milky white, and some have turned amber, it’s usually the optimal time to harvest.
8. Gentle Training Techniques: If you choose to train your plants, opt for low-stress techniques such as Low Stress Training (LST). High-stress methods like topping or supercropping can be too harsh for the fast-growing autoflowers and might stunt their growth rather than promote it.
Understanding these key elements can drastically increase the likelihood of a successful first grow. Autoflowers are an excellent introduction to cannabis cultivation due to their forgiving nature and straightforward care requirements, making them a perfect choice for those new to the field.