The process of growing cannabis includes multiple crucial stages. Each stage requires special care and attention from the cultivator for optimal development of the cannabis plants. It is important to recognise that the cannabis growth at every stage has a vital implication on the final product’s quality and yield. At each stage, the requirements of nutrients, light, and water can vary. An experienced cannabis cultivator knows how to grow marijuana by replicating the right environmental conditions at each stage of the plant’s growth.
This blog discusses the essential different stages of growing cannabis.
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What Are the Growth Stages for a Cultivator to Know?
It is normal for cultivators to wonder how to grow marijuana. Here are 5 growth stages of a cannabis plant that is crucial for a cultivator to have knowledge of:
Stage #1: Germination
The germination stage is the first stage in the life cycle of the cannabis plant. In this stage, the cannabis seeds are soaked in distilled water for 12-24 hours. Once the seeds crack open and the roots appear, cultivators plant them in soil. It is crucial to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
While germinating, the seeds require a warm, damp, and dark environment, with temperatures balanced between 70-85°F (21-29°C). Typically, this stage lasts 2 to 10 days, after which small plants grow from the soil. However, the germination times and temperatures can differ among different types of cannabis.
Here is a table that shows the ideal environmental requirements for germination of different cannabis types.
| Type of Cannabis | Germination Time | Ideal Temperature | Attributes |
| Indica | 2 to 5 days | 21–26°C | Slower start, sturdy seedlings |
| Sativa | 3 to 7 days | 22–27°C | May take longer, needs light support |
| Hybrid | 2 to 6 days | 22–26°C | Balanced traits, moderate growth |
Table 1: Germination Requirements by Cannabis Type
Stage #2: Seedling
In this phase, the first leaves start to appear. During this phase, the cannabis plants establish their root system and start to develop their leaves.
Seedlings require a lot of light in this phase of growth (ideally 18 to 24 hours of light). Cultivators need to arrange for CFL or LED lights to maintain a regular supply of light. Furthermore, the soil should be mildly watered. In case of different types of cannabis, a mild fertiliser of NPK (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium) can be used balanced ratio.
In this phase, the main objective of the plant is to develop its roots and initiate the growth of the first set of leaves. Proper care in this phase leaves a stronger foundation for the development of the plant. The seedling stage lasts about 2 to 3 weeks.
Stage #3: Vegetative Growth
In the vegetative growth stage, the cannabis plant starts to grow rapidly. This phase typically lasts from 3 to 16 weeks, depending on the strain and growing factors. The main focus during this phase is rapid leaf and stem growth, expansion of root and branches, which support the future bud development.
The growers need to keep the light source high, just like in the seedling phase. Watering should be increased, but proper drainage should also be planned to avoid rotting of the roots. It is also optimal to use a nutrient solution with a higher nitrogen content.
Since the plant will grow in height and volume, it is crucial to use training techniques topping and low-stress training (LST). These training and pruning techniques help to maintain the plant shape and promote more productive growth.
Stage #4: Pre-Flowering
This is a brief transitional phase between the vegetation stage and the flowering stage. This stage lasts from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the type of cannabis strains. This phase shows signs of sex differentiation among the cannabis plants. Growers need to be cautious in this phase to avoid the case of pollination and seed production.
In the pre-flowering stage, the cannabis plants reveal their gender. Female plants develop small pistils that look like hair at the nodes. On the other hand, male plants develop small pollen sacs. To avoid the risk of mass pollination, growers often seclude the male plants from the female ones.
Nutritional adjustment is critical in this phase. It is ideal to transition from a high nitrogen to a high phosphorus and potassium solution to prepare plants for bud production. Keep the light schedule to 12 hours of light and 12 hours of darkness.
Stage #5: Flowering
For cannabis growers, this is the most critical stage of the plant’s growth. Depending on the strain and growth factors, this phase can last from 6 to 12 weeks. During this time, the buds grow and become mature.
Growers need to ensure the same lighting schedule as before. Plus, they can also use a high-phosphorus and potassium nutrient. Since this is the phase of bud’s development, watering needs can be increased. However, cultivators should be careful of overwater.
Bud Development
The buds start to grow at the nodes, and the plant starts to use its energy to develop the buds. After some weeks, the bud becomes denser and more resinous. Understanding THC vs CBD can help you optimize the effects of your harvest. During this time, pest control is crucial as well as maintaining the optimal temperature (65-80°F) and 40-50% humidity.
Additional Stage: Harvesting
When the buds are completely grown and mature, it is time to harvest. Growers can harvest the plant when the pistils turn from white to a reddish-brown colour. It is the right time to harvest when around 70-80% of the pistils have changed colour. It is recommended to use sterilised scissors to cut the branches and remove the fan leaves before drying and curing the cannabis.
Wrapping Up
For a successful harvest, knowing all these stages is crucial. From germination to harvesting, each phase of cannabis growth has crucial significance in delivering optimal growth. Therefore, mastering these stages is essential for anyone learning how to grow marijuana. With proper care and dedication, you growers can develop high-quality cannabis.
Choose the Right Seeds to Grow Standard Quality Cannabis!
Looking to grow standard cannabis? Choose authentic vendors to buy seeds and take proper care in every growth stage to see tangible results.
