Growing cannabis requires a professional approach to get the best yield. Plants need a balanced mix of nutrients for successful flowering and ultimately a quality end product. One of the most important factors is using a suitable fertilizer and the correct dosage. But the right 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 are well informed about the expected legalization in 2024!
Cannabis cultivation – these are the most important factors
In summary, successful cannabis cultivation requires careful strain selection, the right growing system, optimal soil conditions, proper nutrient supply, and proper watering. Considering all factors is important if you want to harvest 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 referred to as macronutrients: nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K).
Nitrogen is essential for plant growth as it is responsible for the formation of chlorophyll. Phosphorus promotes root system development, 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, sulphur, iron, zinc, manganese and boron. These micronutrients play an important role in various physiological processes in the plant, including photosynthesis, the uptake of water and the regulation of the pH value.
Macronutrients and micronutrients for cannabis plants
In order to ensure that the cannabis plants are supplied with 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 is the nutrient requirement of plants?
The nutrient requirements of a cannabis plant can vary depending on the growth stage and individual conditions. Exact nutrient requirements depend on factors such as plant variety, plant size, growing system (indoor or outdoor), soil pH, and environmental conditions. It is important to observe the needs of the plant and adjust the amounts of fertilizer accordingly to avoid deficiencies 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 mainly growing and producing leaves, it requires a higher percentage of nitrogen to fuel growth. In the flowering phase, when the plant forms buds, it needs more phosphorus and potassium to support bud formation and resin production.
When should you fertilize cannabis?
Basically, it is 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 a nutrient deficiency appear, such as light green leaves or yellowing, it is time to start fertilizing.
Fertilize organically or minerally?
Choosing between organic and mineral fertilizer is an individual decision based on personal preferences, environmental awareness and specific growing conditions. It's important to weigh the pros and cons of each method and choose the best option for growing your own cannabis.
Organic fertilizers are natural and deliver nutrients in a slow and controlled manner, promoting soil fertility. They offer a sustainable option and can improve the taste and quality of the harvest.
Mineral fertilizing, also known as synthetic or inorganic fertilizing, involves the use of chemically manufactured fertilizers. The nutrients are readily available, but over-fertilization can occur more easily.
Buying 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 quality bud. It is advisable to bet on high-quality fertilizers, specially designed for cannabis cultivation and that best meet the needs of the plants.The quality of the fertilizers can also have an impact on the development of aromas and terpenes responsible for the taste and aroma of the Cannabis flowers are responsible.
It is important to regularly monitor the plants and their response to fertilization. One sign of over-fertilization is burnt and discolored leaf tips. These should be recognized and causes such as over-accumulation of salts in the substrate should be treated and avoided.
Our FARBIO® organic fertilizer supports you in the care of your hemp plants! Fertilizing with the NPK main nutrients and micronutrients promotes rapid growth and supports the development of leaves and magnificent flowers.
How often and how much to fertilize for your plants to thrive?
During the vegetative phase, when the plant is mainly growing and producing leaves, it usually needs 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, a little more careful fertilization is required. You can continue to fertilize every week or two for the first few weeks of flowering. In the last few weeks of the flowering phase, when the buds are developing, fertilization should be gradually reduced to ensure the plant achieves good aroma formation and maturation.
