HERMAPHRODITE CANNABIS PLANTS: HOW TO PREVENT UNWANTED SURPRISES IN YOUR GARDEN?

HERMAPHRODITE CANNABIS PLANTS: HOW TO PREVENT UNWANTED SURPRISES IN YOUR GARDEN?

Hermaphrodite cannabis plants can be an unpleasant surprise for growers, which can compromise the quality of the harvest. Hermaphroditism means that the plant has developed both male and female sex organs, which can lead to self-pollination and the production of poor quality seeds. In this article we will focus on preventing unwanted hermaphrodites and protecting your cannabis garden. Can excessive fertilization cause hermaphroditism? What are "banana plants" and what other forms of hermaphroditism exist? And can hermaphroditism be prevented by selecting quality seeds? Continue reading this article to grow cannabis successfully and without the occurrence of unwanted hermaphroditism!

What causes hermaphroditism in cannabis?

Hermaphroditism in cannabis can be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. There are several main causes that can cause a plant to transform into a hermaphroditic state:

  1. Genetic factors:
  • Some cannabis varieties are more prone to hermaphroditism due to their genetic makeup.
  • Genetic resistance and heritability vary from one variety to another, which may influence the risk of hermaphroditism.
  1. Environmental factors:
  • Stressful conditions such as excessive fertilization, extreme temperatures, lack of nutrients or light can cause hermaphroditism.
  • External factors such as irregular light cycles (e.g. light during the night) can also affect the development of the plant.

Identification of hermaphroditic cannabis plants

Identification of hermaphrodites is key to successful cannabis cultivation and minimising the risk of unintended hermaphroditism. The following visual signs may indicate the presence of hermaphrodite plants:

  1. Sticks:
  • The stamens of hermaphroditic plants are often made up of both male and female organs.
  • Stamens (female organs) may be present in a single stamen together with pistils (male organs).
  1. Appearance of the stamens:
  • Hermaphrodite stamens may be smaller and less conspicuous than the stamens of male or female plants.

In order to recognize and distinguish hermaphrodites from male and female plants, it is important to regularly observe the plants during their growth cycle. When identifying hermaphrodites, it is advisable to examine the stamens carefully and look for the occurrence of male and female organs in the same stamen. In this way, hermaphrodite plants can be easily detected and appropriate measures taken to minimise their negative impact on cannabis cultivation.

The most common hermaphroditic cannabis plants

  1. 'Bananas': this form of hermaphroditism is characterised by the appearance of female flowers with pistils that are surrounded by male stamens. This combination is reminiscent of the banana plant from which this form of hermaphroditism gets its name.
  1. " Hermia: this form of hermaphroditism is related to the presence of female flowers with pistils and also male organs, which are stamens. This combination suggests that the plant has both male and female sex organs.
  1. 'Late' hermaphrodites: these plants may initially look like purely female plants but later develop male flowers or stamens. This type of hermaphroditism usually appears later during
  1. 'Sporadic' hermaphrodites: these plants tend to form several male flowers or stamens alongside female flowers or pistils. This form of hermaphroditism can be irregular and sporadic.
  1. 'True' hermaphrodites: these plants have both male and female organs in the same flower, at the same time and to the same degree. This form of hermaphroditism is the most pronounced.

How to prevent hermaphrodites in cannabis plants?

Preventing unwanted hermaphrodites in cannabis cultivation is essential to ensure stable sexual development of the plants and a quality harvest. There are several important aspects to consider:

  1. Selection of genetics and quality seeds:
  • Choose cannabis varieties from reputable and trusted sources.
  • Try to get genetics that are known for their genetic stability and low risk of hermaphrodites.
  1. Environmental control:
  • Provide an optimal environment for cannabis growth, including temperature, humidity, light cycle and ventilation.
  • Minimize stress factors such as excessive fertilization, extreme temperatures, lack of water or nutrients.
  1. Plant Control:
  • Inspect plants regularly to detect any signs of hermaphroditism early.
  • If you find hermaphroditic plants, dispose of them as soon as possible to minimise the risk of pollination of other plants.

A few words in conclusion

Finally, it is important to note that preventing hermaphroditic cannabis plants is essential for successful and proper cultivation. Selecting the right genetics, providing a suitable environment and regular control are key. Keep a close eye on your plants and dispose of hermaphrodites in a timely manner. Maintaining a clean and favorable environment for your plants is essential to minimize the risk of pollination and ensure a quality harvest. If you follow these precautions, you will be successful in growing cannabis and will not have to deal with unwanted hermaphrodites.


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