Growing cannabis requires a professional approach to get the best yield. Plants require a balanced mix of nutrients for successful flowering and ultimately a high-quality end product. One of the most important factors is the use of a suitable fertilizer and the correct dosage. But correct application is also crucial: an insufficient dose or an overdose of fertilizer can harm your plant. For this reason, it is important to understand how plants properly absorb nutrients. This article deals with important information about growing and fertilizing cannabis - so you will be well informed when legalization comes in 2024!
Cannabis cultivation – these are the most important factors
In summary, successful cannabis cultivation requires careful strain selection, the right cultivation system, optimal soil conditions, proper nutrient supply and adequate irrigation. Considering all factors is important if you want to harvest high-quality marijuana.
Nutrients for the cannabis plant: nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium
A cannabis plant requires a range of nutrients to grow optimally and ensure healthy development. The three main nutrients are called macronutrients: nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K).
Nitrogen is crucial for the growth of the plant as it is responsible for the formation of chlorophyll. Phosphorus promotes the development of the root system, flower formation and seed production. Potassium helps the plant use water efficiently, strengthens cell structure and supports metabolism.
In addition, the cannabis plant also requires other essential micronutrients such as calcium, magnesium, sulfur, iron, zinc, manganese and boron. These micronutrients play an important role in various physiological processes in the plant, including photosynthesis, the absorption of water and the regulation of the pH value.
Macronutrients and micronutrients for cannabis plants
To ensure that the cannabis plants receive sufficient nutrients, special fertilizers for cannabis cultivation can be used. These contain a balanced mix of macro and micronutrients that meet the specific needs of the plant.
What are the nutrient requirements of plants?
The nutrient requirements of a cannabis plant can vary depending on the growth stage and individual conditions. The exact nutrient requirements depend on factors such as the plant variety, the size of the plant, the growing system (indoor or outdoor), the pH of the soil and environmental conditions. It is important to observe the plant's needs and adjust fertilizer amounts accordingly to avoid deficiency symptoms or over-fertilization.
Fertilizers for the different stages - pay attention to the growth phase and flowering phase when fertilizing
The main nutrients a cannabis plant needs are nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K). During the vegetative phase, when the plant is primarily growing and producing leaves, it requires a higher level of nitrogen to promote growth. In the flowering phase, when the plant forms buds, it requires more phosphorus and potassium to support flower formation and resin production.
When should you start fertilizing cannabis?
It is generally advisable to start fertilizing when the young plants develop their first real leaves. In the first few weeks after germination, the soil usually contains enough nutrients to support the plants. However, as soon as the first signs of nutrient deficiency appear, such as bright green leaves or yellowing, it is time to start fertilizing.
Fertilize organically or minerally?
The choice between organic and mineral fertilizer is an individual decision that depends on personal preferences, environmental awareness and the specific growing conditions. It's important to weigh the pros and cons of each method and choose the best option for growing cannabis yourself.
Organic fertilizers are natural and deliver nutrients in a slow and controlled manner and promote soil fertility. They offer a sustainable option and can improve the taste and quality of the crop.
Mineral fertilizing, also known as synthetic or inorganic fertilizing, involves the use of chemically produced fertilizers. The nutrients are available quickly, but over-fertilization can occur more easily.
Buy cannabis fertilizer – everything you need to know
Overall, the quality of fertilizers plays a crucial role in maximizing the potential of cannabis plants and producing high quality buds. It is advisable to rely on high-quality fertilizers that are specifically designed for cannabis cultivation and that best meet the needs of the plants. The quality of fertilizers can also have an impact on the development of flavors and terpenes, which are responsible for the taste and aroma of cannabis flowers.
It is important to regularly monitor the plants and their response to fertilization. A sign of over-fertilization is, for example, burnt and discolored leaf tips. These should be recognized and causes such as overaccumulation of salts in the substrate should be treated and avoided.
Our FARBIO® organic fertilizers support you in caring for your hemp plants! Very important: With natural ingredients and without any chemicals for safe enjoyment of your yield.
Fertilizing with the NPK main nutrients promotes rapid growth and supports the development of leaves and magnificent flowers.
For enough available nitrogen in the vegetative phase, when the plant mainly produces leaves, the Nitrogen Bio-Boost is the best choice. Because it is a foliar fertilizer that is simply sprayed onto the leaves.
Use the organic microcomplex to ensure sufficient trace elements and thus the healthy development of your cannabis plants.
Should cultivation be even easier? Discover the starter set for the complete care of your cannabis plants.
You can also find all FARBIO products on Amazon ( click here ).
How often and how much should you fertilize so that your plants thrive?
During the vegetative phase, when the plant is primarily growing and producing leaves, it typically requires more frequent fertilization. It is recommended to fertilize every one to two weeks, depending on the fertilizers used.
During the flowering phase, when the plant forms buds, slightly more careful fertilization is required. In the first few weeks of the flowering phase you can continue to fertilize every one to two weeks. In the last weeks of the flowering phase, when the buds are developing, fertilization should be gradually reduced to ensure that the plant achieves good aroma production and maturation.
