Photo by Potcahontas
Are you interested in growing your own cannabis plants? Whether you want to grow for personal use or for medicinal purposes, this guide will show you everything you need to know about growing your own cannabis plants. It’s important to note that growing cannabis is still illegal in many parts of the world, so make sure you check your local laws before getting started. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.
1. Seeds
The first thing you’ll need is some quality cannabis seeds. You can find these for sale online or at your local dispensary. Make sure to get a variety of different seeds so you can experiment with different strains. Additionally, you’ll want to get feminized seeds if you’re only growing for personal use, as they will be less likely to produce male plants (which are generally considered useless for smoking). You will need to find a reputable seller for ordering seeds online, as there are many scams out there. If you’re unsure, ask for recommendations from people you trust. It’s also a good idea to read online reviews before making your purchase.
2. Grow Lights
Unless you’re lucky enough to live in a place with year-round sunlight, you’re going to need some grow lights to help your plants thrive. There are a variety of different types of grow lights available, so do some research to figure out which ones will work best for your space and budget. Additionally, you’ll need to make sure your grow lights are on a timer so they’re only on for the appropriate amount of time each day. If you don’t have to grow lights, you can also try growing your plants outdoors; however, you’ll need to make sure they’re in a location that gets at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.
3. Pots and Soil
Once you have your seeds and grow lights, you’ll need to get some pots and soil. The type of pot you use is up to you, but it’s important to make sure they have drainage holes in the bottom. As for soil, you can either buy pre-made cannabis soil or make your own. If you’re making your own, you’ll need to mix together perlite, vermiculite, coco coir, and compost. Once you have your soil ready, you can start planting your seeds. This guide will assume you’re planting feminized seeds, as they are easier to grow for beginners. It’s important to note that you should only plant one seed per pot.
4. Water and Nutrients
Once your seeds have been planted, you’ll need to water them regularly. The amount of water they need will depend on the type of soil you’re using, as well as the size and type of pot. It’s a good idea to start with smaller amounts of water and then increase as needed. You can also add nutrients to your plants if you want, but this is not necessary. Some growers like to use a hydroponic system, which doesn’t require any soil at all. However, this is generally only recommended for experienced growers. It’s also worth mentioning that you’ll need to be careful not to overwater your plants, as this can lead to problems.
5. Ventilation
Good ventilation is important for keeping your grow room air circulated and preventing mold or mildew from forming. There are a variety of different ways to ventilate your space, so again, do some research to figure out what will work best for you. One option is to use an exhaust fan, which will pull hot air out of your grow room and replace it with cooler air from outside. Another option is to use oscillating fans, which will circulate the air inside your grow room without pulling in any outside air.
6. Temperature and Humidity
You’ll also need to pay attention to the temperature and humidity levels in your grow room. Cannabis plants prefer a temperature between 70-85 degrees Fahrenheit and relative humidity of 40-60%. If the temperature or humidity gets too high, it can lead to problems like mold or bud rot. You can use a thermostat and hygrometer to monitor these levels, or there are also a variety of different grow room controllers available that will do this for you. It’s also a good idea to have a backup plan in case your power goes out, as this can cause the temperature and humidity to fluctuate.
Growing your own cannabis plants can be a fun and rewarding experience. However, it’s important to do your research and be prepared before you get started. This guide should give you a good starting point, but there is still a lot to learn. The best way to become a successful grower is to read as much as you can and talk to other growers. There are also a variety of different online forums and websites that can be helpful. With some time and effort, you should be able to grow your own healthy and productive cannabis plants.