The Importance of Darkness in Cannabis Cultivation: a Key Factor for Proper Growth and High Yields

17. 11. 2023

One of the most frequently mentioned topics regarding cannabis cultivation is the importance of darkness. Many people focus primarily on lighting and sunshine, but the truth is that darkness is absolutely crucial. The dark cycle is the key to proper growth and high yields. This time of rest is crucial for the cannabis plant because key metabolic processes occur during this time. At which stage of growth does cannabis need the most darkness? And when does it need the least? Can a properly adjusted light cycle lead to higher yields? In this article, we'll take a closer look at how darkness affects cannabis cultivation and how to use it correctly for best results.

How important is darkness for cannabis?

Darkness has a significant effect on the growth and development of cannabis and is an important factor in its cultivation. Below are the main points that highlight the importance of darkness for cannabis:

Thedark cycle and photosynthesis: darkness plays a key role in the process of photosynthesis. Although photosynthesis takes place mainly in the light, darkness allows plants to complete the second phase of the process, known as the 'dark phase' or Calvin cycle. During this phase, organic compounds are formed that are necessary for the growth and development of the plant.
Metabolic processes: darkness allows the plant to carry out various metabolic processes, including carbohydrate production, protein synthesis and regeneration of damaged cells. This period of rest is essential for the proper growth and development of the cannabis plant.
Regulating growth and flowering: darkness also plays a key role in regulating the growth and flowering of cannabis. The length of darkness and light can influence when the plant moves from the growth phase to the flowering phase. Proper regulation of this cycle is essential for optimum yields and bud quality.

Stress protection: darkness also provides the plant with a period of rest and regeneration, which protects it from stresses such as excessive sunlight, overheating or pest infestation. The dark cycle can be a key element in maintaining the health and vitality of the cannabis plant.

The dark cycle in cannabis

The dark cycle, often referred to as the "dark phase" of photosynthesis, is a key element of the cannabis life cycle. It is the phase of photosynthesis that takes place in the absence of light. While the first phase of photosynthesis requires light energy to activate chlorophyll and produce energy, the dark cycle uses these substances to produce glucose and other organic compounds.

The dark cycle takes place in chloroplasts, special organs in plant cells, and involves several important enzymatic reactions. During this process, carbon is oxidized and reduced, allowing the conversion of carbon dioxide (CO2) into organic compounds, especially glucose. This process is essential for the formation of energy reserves and building blocks for plant growth and development.

The dark cycle has several key functions in the life cycle of cannabis :

Glucose formation: the main function of the dark cycle is glucose synthesis. Glucose serves as an energy store for the plant and is a key element for the formation of various organic compounds such as carbohydrates, proteins and lipids.
Energy storage: during the dark cycle, ATP and NADH are produced. These energy stores are important for many cellular processes and serve as an energy reservoir for the plant.
Building blocks: the organic compounds formed in the dark cycle are the building blocks for plant growth and development. They form cell walls, enzymes and other important molecules.
Regulating growth and flowering: the dark cycle also plays a role in regulating the growth and flowering of cannabis by influencing the production of phytohormones that control growth and flowering time.

How much darkness does cannabis need?

The amount of darkness that cannabis plants need at different stages of their life cycle depends on several factors, including variety, cultivation (indoors or outdoors), grower preference and desired results. Below is a general overview of how darkness can be important at different stages:

Growth and vegetative phase: at this stage, plants usually require light and darkness for 18-24 hours per day. Long light cycles promote leaf, stem and root growth. Shorter periods of darkness may be introduced to stabilise phytohormones and promote healthy development.
Before the flowering phase begins: before the flowering phase begins, it is advisable to gradually reduce the length of the light cycle and increase the length of darkness to encourage flowering. This may involve shortening the light cycle to 12 hours of daylight and 12 hours of darkness.
Flowering phase: during flowering, cannabis plants often maintain a 12/12 cycle, which means 12 hours of light and 12 hours of darkness per day. This constant dark phase is key to stimulating flowering and bud formation.
Late flowering and ripening: in the ripening phase, the light cycle can be adjusted as needed. Some growers may extend the length of darkness to 16 hours per day, which can encourage the formation of more prominent and better quality buds.

Managing darkness in cannabis cultivation

Dark cycle for indoor and outdoor cultivation

Indoor growing: indoors you have full control over the light cycle. For optimal darkness control, you can use digital timers to adjust the light cycle according to the requirements of the plant's growth phase. This allows you to mimic natural conditions and achieve maximum yields.

Growing outdoors: darkness control is more difficult when growing outdoors. However, you can choose varieties that are adapted to the climate and photoperiod in your location. Many cannabis varieties are bred for specific geographical areas, which makes them easier to grow.

Choosing suitable cannabis varieties with regard to darkness

It is important to choose suitable cannabis varieties that match the light conditions in your location. There are two main types of cannabis varieties that relate to photoperiod:

Autoflowering varieties: these varieties are less sensitive to the light cycle and start flowering according to the age of the plant, not the length of darkness. They are suitable for growing in a variety of conditions and are less demanding in terms of light cycle control.
Photoperiodic varieties: these varieties require a specific light cycle for the transition to flowering. Remember that if you are growing a photoperiodic variety outdoors, you may need to take into account changes in day length and darkness throughout the year.

How does darkness affect cannabis harvest results?

The key to achieving high yields when growing cannabis is proper darkness control. Find out how darkness affects the harvest results below:

Optimal growth and flowering: a properly regulated light cycle, which includes adequate darkness during the flowering phase, allows cannabis plants to achieve optimal growth and bud formation. This leads to an increase in the number and size of buds, resulting in higher yields.
Shorter growing time: a shorter light cycle during the flowering phase can lead to a faster completion of the growth cycle and thus an earlier harvest. This is particularly important for growers who want to harvest more than once a year.
Stick quality: proper control of darkness can also increase the quality of the sticks. A longer phase of darkness during flowering can increase the concentration of active ingredients such as CBD, leading to a higher medicinal potential of the buds.
Preventing hermaphroditism: controlling darkness can help prevent the emergence of hermaphroditic plants, which can reduce yields by producing unwanted male flowers.

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Flowering type	photoperiod
Genotype	indica
Placement	indoor, outdoor