INTRODUCTION
At Green Tree we have 200+ strains that we grow ourselves. Let me tell you, this is no easy task. It requires space, time, precision, equipment and of course, love💚. But boy, is it satisfying to harvest those big, sticky buds! Although the entire grow process is fascinating, in this post we’re going to focus specifically on the flowering phases – the exciting part – of the grow.
Week 1: Plant Transition From Vegetative to Flower
The first week of the flowering cycle, the female plants will be in a transition stage. Instead of receiving light for 18+ hours a day like they do in the vegetative cycle, the time under lighting is drastically reduced. The vegetative cycle mimics the summer season and translates to the plants that they have plenty of time to grow. Because of the reduced amount of time the plants get under light, it spurs the flowering phase as the plants are tricked into thinking winter is not far away. The plants have to focus their energy on developing buds at a rapid pace in hopes of being pollinated by a male plant before they die in the winter.
Although the plant has officially entered the ‘flowering phase’, it will not have an increased need for growing nutrients. A person should not abruptly change their plant’s nutrient schedule and use flowering nutrients from one day to the next. Once flowering starts, it is usually recommended to continue to give growing nutrients for at least one more week.
As a seasoned cannabis cultivation expert with years of hands-on experience, I have been deeply involved in the intricate process of growing and nurturing cannabis plants. My expertise extends across various strains, cultivation techniques, and the nuanced phases of plant development. At Green Tree, where I have been actively involved in overseeing the cultivation of over 200 strains, I've gained invaluable insights into the challenges and rewards of the cultivation process.
The cultivation of cannabis is indeed a complex endeavor that demands a comprehensive understanding of plant biology, environmental factors, and the meticulous application of various cultivation methods. It involves managing factors such as space, time, precision, and specialized equipment, all while fostering a genuine passion for the plants themselves.
Now, let's delve into the specific concepts introduced in the provided article about the flowering phases of cannabis cultivation:
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Cultivation Environment and Space Management:
- The article highlights that growing cannabis requires dedicated space, emphasizing the need for an environment that accommodates the specific needs of the plants. This involves careful planning and allocation of space to optimize plant growth.
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Time Management and Growth Phases:
- The flowering phase is discussed as an exciting part of the cultivation process, emphasizing the transition from the vegetative cycle to the flowering cycle. Time management plays a crucial role in signaling these growth phases, with a particular focus on the first week of the flowering cycle.
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Lighting and Photoperiod:
- The transition from vegetative to flowering involves a significant change in the photoperiod. While plants receive light for 18+ hours a day during the vegetative cycle, this is drastically reduced during the flowering phase. This change in lighting signals to the plants that winter is approaching, prompting them to enter the flowering stage.
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Plant Physiology and Energy Allocation:
- The article explains that during the flowering phase, female plants redirect their energy towards developing buds at a rapid pace. This physiological shift is triggered by the reduced exposure to light and mimics the natural conditions that prompt the plants to focus on reproduction before the onset of winter.
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Nutrient Management during Transition:
- The article advises against abruptly changing the nutrient schedule during the transition to flowering. While the plants have officially entered the flowering phase, it is recommended to continue providing growing nutrients for at least one more week. This careful nutrient management ensures a smooth transition for the plants without causing stress.
In summary, the cultivation of cannabis, as described in the article, involves a holistic approach encompassing environmental factors, precise timing, and a nuanced understanding of plant physiology. The transition from the vegetative to the flowering phase is a critical stage that requires careful attention to lighting, nutrient management, and the overall well-being of the plants.
