Growing cannabis indoors has become a popular option due to legal restrictions, climate, or privacy. Although growing indoors presents its own challenges, if done correctly, it can result in high-quality harvests. In this post, we will discover how to grow and care for cannabis plants indoors.
What does the cannabis plant need to grow?
Cannabis , like any other plant, has basic needs that must be met to achieve healthy growth:
Light
Cannabis plants require a lot of light to carry out photosynthesis. When growing indoors, LED, HPS (High Pressure Sodium) or CFL (Compact Fluorescent Light) lights can be used. The advantage of LED lights is that they consume less energy and emit less heat.
Water
The frequency of watering will depend on the size of the plant, the type of substrate and the ambient humidity. It is essential not to overwater, as excess moisture can cause fungus and diseases.
Substratum
Cannabis can be grown in soil or hydroponic systems. If you choose soil, an aerated, well-draining mix is recommended. Hydroponic systems allow for more precise control of nutrients but can be more complex for beginners.
Nutrients
Cannabis plants need essential nutrients to grow. In vegetative stages, they require more nitrogen, while in the flowering stage they will need more phosphorus and potassium.
Temperature and Humidity
Cannabis prefers temperatures between 20° C and 28°C. Relative humidity should be between 40-60%. During the flowering stage, reducing humidity can help prevent mold problems.
How to get the most production indoors?
Maximizing production requires constant attention and adjustments:
Plant Training
Techniques such as «LST» (Low Stress Training) or «topping» can help the plant develop more main colas and improve light distribution.
CO2
Increasing the level of CO2 in the environment can enhance growth, but it is essential to ensure that there is sufficient ventilation.
Control pests and diseases
It is vital to regularly inspect plants for signs of pests such as spider mites or diseases such as mildew. Early prevention can save a harvest.
Choosing productive strains
Some cannabis strains have a higher yield potential than others. Doing research and choosing strains known for their high yields can be beneficial.
How to get it to flower indoors?
Cannabis is a photoperiodic plant, meaning that its flowering cycle is influenced by light. Indoors, the grower has complete control over this aspect.
Change of photoperiod
To induce flowering, you need to adjust the lights so that the plant receives 12 hours of uninterrupted light and 12 hours of darkness. This change simulates the conditions of autumn, when the days are getting shorter.
Control temperature and humidity
As mentioned above, it is beneficial to reduce humidity during flowering.
Proper nutrition
At this stage, the plant needs more phosphorus and potassium. It is essential to adjust the feeding to meet these needs.
Avoid stress
Any form of stress, such as sudden changes in temperature or interruptions in the dark cycle, can affect the quality and quantity of flowering.
Growing cannabis indoors requires a combination of knowledge, patience, and attention to detail. By providing the right conditions and being attentive to the plant’s needs, you can achieve high-quality harvests in the comfort of your own home. Good luck and happy growing!