What is DLI and why is it important for autoflowers?

Daily Light Integral (DLI) measures the total amount of usable light (photons) a plant receives in a 24-hour period. For autoflowering cannabis, DLI is critical because these plants grow on a fixed genetic timeline. Optimizing DLI ensures they maximize photosynthesis during their short lifespan, leading to faster vegetative growth, improved bud density, and higher overall yields.

How do I calculate the DLI for my autoflowers?

To calculate DLI, you need to know your light's intensity (PPFD) at the canopy level and the number of hours your lights are on. You can use the following formula: DLI = PPFD * light hours * 0.0036

What are the recommended DLI targets for each growth stage?

Autoflowers require increasing amounts of light as they mature: Seedling Stage: 10–15 mol/m²/day to support root and stem formation. Vegetative Stage: 20–30 mol/m²/day for branching and leaf expansion. Flowering Stage: 30–40 mol/m²/day to fuel bud density, terpenes, and potency.

Can too much light (excessive DLI) damage autoflowers?

Yes. Providing a DLI that is too high can lead to leaf burn, light stress, or bleached buds. If you notice the tips of your leaves turning brown or curling upward, your light intensity may be too high for the duration of your light cycle. To fix this, you can either dim your LED lights, move them further away from the canopy, or slightly reduce the number of light hours in your daily schedule.