The flowering stage of cannabis is a pivotal period in the plant's growth cycle, where buds begin to form and mature. For home growers, understanding the flowering stage by week is critical for successfully cultivating healthy cannabis plants. Explore the timeline of the flowering stage, from the transition to flowering to the final weeks of maturation, learning insights and tips for each week along the way. Discover the intricacies of cannabis flowering to become a better grower.
Week 1-2: Transition to Flowering
Your plants will undergo some pretty noticeable transformations during the initial flowering phase. You must know what to expect and how to tend to your plants during this critical transition period.
Changes in Plant Appearance
In the first two weeks of the flowering phase, often referred to as the "stretch" phase, plants begin to grow much taller, doubling or even tripling in size. This rapid growth is accompanied by the emergence of white hairs or pistils, at the nodes of the plants. These pistils will eventually become the buds themselves. Understanding this change helps you identify and confirm that your cannabis plants have indeed entered the flowering stage and are on the right track.
Nutrient and Water Needs
This phase is also a time of increasing nutrient and water needs. As plants grow and buds begin to develop, the demand for water and critical nutrients like phosphorus and potassium rises. Ensure your plants remain properly hydrated but avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root problems. Balancing these nutritional needs is key to supporting the health and development of your plants during this pivotal stage. As you navigate these initial weeks, remember that attentiveness and flexibility are necessary.
Week 3-4: Early Flowering
Now that your plants have successfully transitioned into the flowering stage, the focus during these weeks shifts to bud development. This critical period can be a bit delicate, and it's your job as the cultivator to provide the right environment, light, and care for your cannabis plants to thrive.
Bud Development and Growth
During the early flowering stage, you'll notice the bud sites becoming more defined and the white pistils growing thicker and longer. These clusters of white hair-like structures are where the buds will continue to develop over the coming weeks. It's truly an exciting time as you get a sneak peek of the yield to come. However, it's also a pivotal period where it's wise to minimize any plant stress to avoid affecting bud development negatively.
Light and Environmental Considerations
Light and environmental considerations play a significant role during this stage of growth. Generally, cannabis plants in the vegetative stage require more light than in the flowering stage. A schedule of 12 hours of light and 12 hours of total darkness is recommended for flowering. The reason for this is that it mimics the natural cycle of longer nights that typically triggers cannabis plants to flower in nature.
Indoor growers should also begin to lower the humidity levels in the grow room to around 40-50% to prevent mold growth, which can be a potential threat to the developing buds. Temperature is another factor to consider, as maintaining a comfortable range between 70-80°F (21-27°C) can promote better flowering.
Week 5-6: Mid-Flowering Stage
At the mid-flowering stage, bud formation and trichome development become paramount. Observing the plant's overall health and managing any pests or diseases also remain significant at this point.
Bud Formation and Trichome Development
Around weeks 5-6, you'll notice denser bud formation. The previously thin and wispy pistils begin to thicken and cluster together, signifying healthy bud development. These buds start forming thick and sticky resinous trichomes, responsible for producing cannabinoids like THC and CBD. The appearance of trichomes is also an excellent indicator that your cannabis plants are getting closer to harvest time.
Pest and Disease Management
Identifying signs of pests or diseases during the mid-flowering stage is critical. The increased density of buds can attract pests and diseases like bud rot may emerge due to high humidity. Regular inspection should help you detect and treat these issues promptly. Remember, prevention is key to avoiding larger issues down the line.
Week 7-8: Late Flowering Stage
The late flowering stage is an exciting time when the buds ripen and mature, indicating that the harvest is near.
Ripening and Maturation of Buds
At this stage, your plant's buds will start to ripen. Trichomes will get milky, and the pistils will turn from white to a reddish-brown color. The scent of your plants will likely become much more potent as terpene production increases. This signals the start of bud maturation.
Harvest Preparation and Timing
Preparation for harvest begins at this stage. You'll need to start considering the right timing for harvest, which is usually determined by observing trichome and pistil color. Also, get your harvest tools and drying area ready.
Week 9-10: Final Weeks of Flowering
The final weeks of flowering require careful attention to flushing and nutrient management, as well as diligent monitoring and troubleshooting.
Flushing and Nutrient Management
Flushing is the process of running pure water through the soil or the grow medium to 'cleanse' the plants of any leftover nutrients. This is done to improve the taste and quality of the crop. You should also stop all nutrient feeds and focus on keeping the plants well-watered.
Monitoring and Troubleshooting
Continuous monitoring during these last weeks is vital. Troubleshoot any problems promptly to avoid impacting the final yield. Pay attention to trichomes and pistils to determine the optimal harvest time.
Patience is a Virtue for the Cannabis Flowering Stage
Understanding the flowering stage of cannabis by week is integral to cultivating a successful crop. It's a rewarding process that requires patience, attentiveness, and the right knowledge. Armed with this information, you're well on your way to becoming a better grower. Happy harvesting!
