SUNLIGHT AND ITS IMPORTANCE FOR THE GROWTH OF OUTDOOR CANNABIS

Cannabis, a plant dating back to ancient times, is, like most plants, dependent on sunlight. Light is not only a source of energy for the plant, but also controls its life cycle. Outdoor cultivation of cannabis comes with a number of unique challenges and problems, especially when it comes to ensuring optimal exposure to sunlight. How many hours of light does cannabis need during the growing and flowering phase? What problems can occur due to lack of light? And what effect do the different seasons have on growth? In this article, we delve into the world of photosynthesis, the growth stages of cannabis and the effect that light has on the quality and yield of cannabis plants grown outdoors.

Photosynthesis: why is sunlight so important for cannabis?

Photosynthesis is the basic biological process by which plants, algae and some micro-organisms convert the energy of sunlight into chemical energy stored in carbohydrates, especially glucose. The process takes place mainly in chloroplasts, which contain a green dye called chlorophyll.

When sunlight hits the leaves of a plant, chlorophyll and other pigments absorb the light energy and convert it into chemical energy. This energy is then used to split water molecules into oxygen, which is released into the atmosphere, and hydrogen. The hydrogen then combines with carbon dioxide from the air to form glucose and other carbohydrates, which the plant uses as a source of energy and building blocks for further growth.

The importance of sunlight for energy production for plants:

Sunlight is the main source of energy needed for the process of photosynthesis. Without sufficient light, photosynthesis could not take place efficiently, resulting in slower plant growth and reduced biomass production .

Sunlight also controls some key regulatory processes in plants, including flowering time and regulation of the dormancy cycle. Therefore, for outdoor cultivation of cannabis, as for all plants grown in the sun, it is essential to know and optimise sunlight exposure to increase photosynthetic activity and promote healthy plant growth.

Cannabis growth stages and light requirements

Cannabis, like many other plants, has specific light requirements depending on the stage of growth. Cannabis growers need to be aware of and adhere to these requirements to ensure optimum growth and yield.

The vegetative phase.

During the vegetative phase, when cannabis is growing and expanding, it needs a lot of light. Growers who grow cannabis outdoors rely on natural sunlight during the summer months. This is ideal for optimal growth in the vegetative phase:

• 14-18 hours oflight per day. Most growers try to provide at least 16 hours of light per day.

• Intensity: strong direct sunlight is best, but cannabis can tolerate moderate shade.

Flowering stage: How light requirements change

During the flowering phase, the cannabis plant starts to produce buds and seeds. Light requirements change during this phase:

• Length of light: Cannabis plants need shorter daylight and a longer dark phase to move into the flowering phase. The ideal is 12 hours of light and 12 hours of darkness.

• Intensity: Strong sunlight is still needed, but it is important to ensure that the plants get the darkness needed for proper flowering.

Sensitivity of cannabis to light interruption and effect on flowering

Cannabis is very sensitive to the interruption of the dark phase during the flowering phase. Any unexpected lighting, whether from artificial or other sources, can:

• Slow or interrupt flowering: confusion may occur, which may delay or slow flowering.

• Risk of hermaphroditism: if cannabis plants are subjected to stress, e.g. irregular lighting during the dark phase, this may lead to hermaphroditic plants, which may impair yield quality.

The effect of season and geographical location on the growth of hemp

Cannabis, like many other plants, is greatly influenced by the environment. The seasons and geographical location play a key role in how the plant responds to light and temperature conditions, which has a direct effect on growth and flowering.

How day length affects the growth and flowering of cannabis:

• Growth (vegetative phase): cannabis prefers longer daylight hours, typically 14-18 hours per day. In spring and early summer, when the days are longest, plants usually go through a vegetative phase and grow rapidly.

• Flowering: as the days get shorter and the nights longer, usually in late summer and autumn, cannabis enters the flowering phase. To flower, the plant needs a shorter day phase and a longer dark phase, usually 12 hours of light and 12 hours of darkness.

Importance of geographical location and climatic conditions:

• Geographical location: in places closer to the equator, the length of day and night is relatively stable throughout the year. In these areas, cannabis can flower at different times of the year. Conversely, in areas further from the equator, such as central and northern Europe, seasonal variations in day length are more pronounced, affecting when cannabis grows and flowers.

• Climatic conditions: temperature, humidity, rainfall and soil quality can affect the growth of hemp. In colder climates, the growing season may be shorter and it may be necessary to select varieties of cannabis that are more resistant to cold.

• Altitude: plants grown at higher altitudes may be exposed to lower temperatures, shorter growing cycles and more intense sunlight.

Problems with growing cannabis in less sunny areas

Growing cannabis in areas with limited sunlight can present a number of problems. Shorter days and less intense sunlight can affect plant growth and flowering. However, with the right practices and adaptations it is possible to achieve a successful harvest even in these conditions.

Cannabis varieties adapted to specific climatic conditions:

• Selecting hardy varieties: there are varieties of cannabis that have been bred for growing in cooler and less sunny areas. These varieties are often more resistant to cold temperatures and can flower on shorter days.

• Autoflowering varieties: these varieties of cannabis are not dependent on daylight, making them ideal for areas with limited sunlight. They flower automatically after a certain period of time, allowing harvesting even in less than ideal conditions.

A few words in conclusion

Sunlight gives strength to all plants, including cannabis. Its importance cannot be overlooked as it is a key factor in the process of photosynthesis, whereby plants obtain their energy. Cannabis plants exposed to optimal amounts of sunlight grow better and produce more buds. Although in some areas it can be a challenge to ensure the right light exposure, choosing the right habitat and adapting to local conditions can significantly improve growing results. It is therefore essential for cannabis growers to understand the importance of sunlight and be able to use it effectively.

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