Cannabis cultivation Growth 3/9: Growing, nutrients, lighting & care
Cannabis cultivation Cultivation and growth phase: The foundation for healthy plants – After your seeds have successfully germinated, the next important phase in cannabis cultivation begins: cultivation and vegetative growth. This phase is crucial, as the root system, stems and leaves of your plants develop during this time (tip: cut stems with lollipopping for more yield), which later form the basis for strong and high-yielding flowers. In this phase, the plants need sufficient light, water, nutrients and a stable environment to grow healthily. Here you will learn how to guide your plants through this critical phase to achieve optimal results. Click here to return to the overview: Growing cannabis at home.
The transition from germination to cultivation
After the seeds have successfully germinated and the first small roots have become visible, they must be planted in the soil or a growing medium.
The transition from germination to the cultivation phase is a delicate moment, as the seedlings are still very sensitive. The small plants need a lot of attention now in order to develop well. It is important that you use a well-aerated substrate and water the young plants carefully to avoid waterlogging.
Important! A lot can go wrong during cultivation. Learn more about typical problems such as pests, nutrient deficiencies and diseases here.
Steps for cultivation:
Carefully place the germinated seeds in small pots or seed trays.
Use a light, well-aerated substrate.
Place the seedlings in a bright place, but avoid direct sunlight.
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The growth phase: the foundation for strong plants
The growth phase, also known as the vegetative phase, begins as soon as the young plants have formed their first leaves. During this phase, the roots, stems and leaves of the plant develop. The growth phase is crucial as it lays the foundation for the flowering phase. The stronger and healthier the plants grow in this phase, the more yield you will have later when you harvest. In the growth phase, the plants need at least 18 hours of light per day and a good supply of nutrients to grow optimally.
Important factors for healthy growth:
Light: At least 18 hours of light daily, ideally 24 hours for indoor cultivation.
Temperature: Keep the temperature at around 20-28°C during the day and around 18-22°C at night.
Humidity: During the growth phase, the humidity should be between 40-70%.
Light is the most important factor for the growth of your plants in the vegetative phase. Cannabis needs a lot of light during this phase to develop strong stems and leaves. Indoor growers often use LED lamps or HPS lamps to ensure that the plants get enough light. It is important that you position the lamps at the right distance from the plants. Light that is too close can burn the plants, while light that is too far away can slow down growth.
Tips on lighting:
Use LED or HPS lamps to provide the plants with sufficient light.
Make sure that the plants get at least 18 hours of light a day.
Keep the lamps at a distance of about 30-60 cm from the plants, depending on the wattage of the lamps.
During the growth phase, cannabis plants require a balanced supply of nutrients in order to develop healthily. The three main nutrients that are most important for growth are nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K). Nitrogen is particularly important in this phase as it supports leaf growth. It is also important that the plants have sufficient micronutrients such as calcium, magnesium and iron to prevent deficiency symptoms.
Which fertilizer to use?
The most important nutrients:
Nitrogen (N): Promotes the growth of leaves and stems.
Phosphorus (P): Supports the development of roots and flowers.
Potassium (K): Strengthens the root system and increases the plants’ resistance.
In addition to light and nutrients, correct watering is also a decisive factor for success during the growth phase. Cannabis plants need an even supply of water, but must not get too much water as this can lead to waterlogging and root rot. Make sure that the substrate remains slightly moist, but not completely soaked. It is best to use filtered water to avoid harmful chemicals and check the pH of the water regularly to ensure it is in the optimum range.
Irrigation tips:
Water the plants regularly, but avoid waterlogging.
The pH value of the water should be between 6.0 and 7.0.
Use filtered or dechlorinated water to avoid harmful substances.
During the growth phase, you also have the option of using various training techniques to optimize the growth of your plants. Methods such as LST (low-stress training) or pruning the plants help to promote growth in width and increase yield. This also works with SCROG methods (net cultivation). These techniques are particularly useful for illuminating the plants evenly and controlling growth, which is especially beneficial when growing indoors.
Important training techniques:
Low-stress training (LST): Promotes horizontal plant growth and maximizes light yield.
Pruning: Remove weak or superfluous leaves to optimize growth.
Supercropping: A method in which the stems are slightly bent to make the plant more robust and increase the yield.
The growth phase usually lasts 4 to 6 weeks, depending on the variety and conditions. Once your plants have reached a certain size and have developed strong roots and stems, you can switch the light cycle to 12 hours of light and 12 hours of darkness to initiate the flowering phase. This step marks the transition from the vegetative phase to the flowering phase, in which your plants begin to produce the coveted flowers.
Indicators for the end of the growth phase:
The plants have developed strong stems and leaves.
The root system is well developed and stable.
The plants are large enough to initiate the flowering phase.
The cultivation and growth phase is one of the most important phases in growing cannabis, as it lays the foundation for a successful harvest. Ensure a sufficient supply of light, a stable supply of nutrients and the right watering to keep your plants healthy and strong.
With the right techniques and a little patience, you will be rewarded with vigorous plants that will provide an abundant yield later in the flowering phase.
Prepare your plants well for the flowering phase to realize their full potential!
Continue with part 4: Flowering phase
The flowering phase is the highlight of cannabis cultivation and probably the most exciting time for any grower. During this phase, the plants begin to produce the coveted flowers that will eventually be harvested. After weeks of care in the growth phase, the success of your cultivation is determined in the flowering phase.
Part 4: Light, time & temperature
Growing cannabis at home? Instructions + videos
Growing cannabis can be an incredibly rewarding experience if you follow the right steps. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced grower, there’s always something new to learn, and with patience and care, you’ll be rewarded in the end. Make sure to take good care of your plants and enjoy the fruits of your labor!
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The transition from germination to the cultivation phase is a delicate moment, as the seedlings are still very sensitive. The small plants need a lot of attention now in order to develop well. It is important that you use a well-aerated substrate and water the young plants carefully to avoid waterlogging.
