Fertilizing cannabis - the key to growing success

Fertilizing cannabis - the key to growing success

Fertilizing cannabis is a key factor in achieving healthy growth, abundant flowering and excellent quality of the final product. Tailoring fertilisation to the specific needs of the cannabis plant, monitoring nutrient status and regular diagnostics are key to maintaining a healthy and balanced growing environment.

An overview of the nutrients necessary for healthy cannabis growth

Nitrogen:

    • Nitrogen is essential for the formation of proteins and amino acids that are the basis of plant growth.
    • It promotes green leaf formation and ensures vital nitrogen metabolism.
    • Nitrogen deficiency can lead to yellowing of leaves, poor growth and poor plant development.

Phosphorus:

    • Phosphorus is crucial for energy processes in plants such as photosynthesis and energy transfer.
    • It promotes root development, flowering and fruit formation.
    • Phosphorus deficiency can lead to delayed flowering, weak root systems and poor plant development.

Potassium:

    • Potassium regulates the plant's water balance and aids in nutrient transport and sugar production.
    • It strengthens the plant's immune system and increases its resistance to stress and disease.
    • It promotes the formation of strong stems, abundant flowering and fertility.
    • Potassium deficiency can lead to rapid growth, poor flowering and susceptibility to infection.

Calcium:

    • Calcium is essential for the formation of cell walls and ensures plant stability.
    • Itregulates the pH of the soil and aids in the transmission of other life.
    • Calcium deficiency can lead to leaf deformation, stem brittleness and impaired water transport.

Magnesium:

Sulphur:

    • Sulfur is a component of amino acids, proteins and enzymes that are essential for plant growth.
    • It promotes chlorophyll formation and improves nitrogen utilization.
    • Sulphur deficiency can lead to yellowing of leaves, poor growth and reduced resistance to pests.

Micronutrients:

    • Important micronutrients for cannabis include iron, copper, manganese, zinc, boron and molybdenum.
    • These micronutrients are essential for proper enzyme function, photosynthesis, chlorophyll formation and other metabolic processes.
    • Micronutrient deficiencies can lead to various defects and disorders in plant growth and development.

A correct and balanced supply of all these nutrients is crucial for achieving healthy and robust cannabis growth. When fertilizing, it is important to monitor the needs of the plant and select the appropriate fertilizer containing macro and micronutrients.

Organic vs. inorganic fertilizer

Organic fertiliser

Organic fertilizers are made from natural materials such as compost, manure and guano. They have several advantages for growing cannabis.

  • Longevity of nutrient life: Organic fertilizers gradually release nutrients into the soil, ensuring a steady supply of nutrients over a longer period of time. This helps prevent over-fertilization and loss of life.

  • Improving soil structure: Organic fertilisers improve soil structure and retain moisture. They help to create well-drained soil, which promotes healthy growth of cannabis roots.

  • Environmental sustainability: Organic fertilisers are environmentally friendly because they are produced from renewable resources and minimise the use of chemicals. This is in line with ecological principles and compliance to sustainable agriculture.

Inorganic fertilizers

Inorganic fertilizers are chemically produced and contain concentrated forms of nutrients. They are readily available.

  • Fast acting: Inorganic fertilisers dissolve in water and are immediately available to the plant. This allows for a rapid response and plant growth.

  • Precise control: With inorganic fertilizers, we always know the exact composition. This is advantageous if you need specific nutrients in a specific amount for a specific stage of plant growth.

  • Higher nutrient content: Inorganic fertilisers are usually rich in nutrients and have a high efficiency. This means that a small amount of fertiliser can provide enough nutrients for cannabis growth.

When choosing between organic and inorganic fertilizers, it is important to consider the needs of your plants, the availability of nutrients in the soil, and your personal preferences.

Correct fertiliser dosage

Proper fertiliser dosage is crucial for the healthy growth and development of cannabis plants. The exact dosage depends on several factors such as growth stage, soil type, variety genetics and plant requirements. Here is an overview of the basic principles of correct fertiliser dosage for cannabis:

  • Choose the right fertiliser: There is a wide range of fertilisers available for growing cannabis. It is important to choose a fertiliser that matches the needs of your plants and the type of soil you are growing.

  • Growth stages and specific needs. In the vegetative phase, when the plant is producing more leaves and branches, it is important to provide enough nitrogen. In the next phase, when the plant is transitioning to flower and fruit production, it is important to increase the supply of phosphorus and potassium.

  • Recommended dosage: Each fertiliser manufacturer puts recommended dosages on their products. When using fertilisers, follow the manufacturer's recommendations and follow the exact dosage. Recommendations usually include the amount of fertilizer per volume of water or area covered. Be careful not to exceed the recommended rate as this can lead to plant damage.

  • Observe the reaction of the plants: It is important to observe the reaction of the plants to the fertiliser received. Healthy plants should have green and vigorous leaves, strong stems and well-developed roots. If you observe increased fertilizer use, such as burned leaves, yellowing or wilting, reduce the fertilizer rate. Conversely, if the plant is showing nutrient deficiencies such as yellowing leaves, poor growth or wilting, increase the fertilizer rate.

  • Fertilisation frequency: Even and regular fertilisation is important to maintain a normal nutrient supply. The frequency offertilization depends on the type of fertilizer and the needs of the plant. Some fertilizers are applied once a week, others are applied every two weeks.

Outdoor vs. indoor fertilization

Fertilizing cannabis can vary depending on whether you are growing plants outdoors or indoors. Both have their own specific pitfalls and methods of adapting fertilization to the environment in which the cannabis is growing.

Outdoor cultivation

  • Natural nutrients: cannabis grown outdoors has access to natural nutrient sources such as sunlight and soil. This means it may require lower doses of fertiliser.
  • Adaptation to the environment: Outdoor cultivation can be affected by seasonal changes such as changes in temperature, humidity and rainfall. It is important to adapt fertiliser to these changes and to monitor the needs of the plants during the different growth stages.

Indoor cultivation

  • Artificial lighting: In indoor cultivation, natural sunlight needs to be replaced by artificial lighting. Plants require a specific fertiliser with a higher nitrogen and phosphorus content.
  • Controlled environment: Indoor growing allows better control over the environment such as temperature, humidity and air circulation. It is necessary to provide optimal conditions for plant growth and adaptation to these specific conditions.

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