Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
Preparing a cannabis grow
The Cannabis Growth Cycle
Before starting to grow cannabis it is important to fully understand the life cycle of the can-
nabis plant. Cannabis whether cultivated indoors or outdoors has the same requirements for
growth; it requires light, air, heat, water, nutrients and a growing medium.
Germination
A cannabis seed germinates as a result of a series of reactions within the seed. Initially mois-
ture, heat and air activate hormones within the outer coating of the seed demanding an in-
crease in cell size. With the help of stored energy within the seed, the embryo expands for-
cing the outer coating to crack creating two reactions: a sprout pushes upwards in search of
light, and a single root grows downward in search of water and nutrients.
Seedling growth
The single root grows downward and branches out creating a small system of roots. The
small rootlets draw in water and nutrients while at the same time functioning as an anchor
for the cannabis plant. Similar to the root, the sprout continues to grow upwards branching
out with leaves instead of roots.
Vegetative growth
It is during the vegetative stage that the cannabis plant will grow to its potential height and
width by providing it with a light cycle optimized for growth. During the vegetative stage
the cannabis plant's root system takes on specialized functions. The main roots convert into
a water transport system while new roots continue to push farther into the soil in search of
more water and nutrients. During the vegetative stage the cannabis plants need 16-24 hours
of light daily.
Flowering
