Cultivation
Growing Guide
From seed to harvest \u2014 a comprehensive guide to cultivating cannabis at home.
Indoor Growing
Advantages
- +Full climate control
- +Year-round growing
- +Higher potency possible
- +Privacy and security
Challenges
- \u2013Higher electricity costs
- \u2013Equipment investment
- \u2013Limited space
- \u2013Requires ventilation
Outdoor Growing
Advantages
- +Free sunlight
- +Larger yields
- +Lower cost
- +Natural ecosystem
Challenges
- \u2013Weather dependent
- \u2013Pest pressure
- \u2013One harvest per year
- \u2013Less control
Growth Stages
Germination
1-7 daysThe seed absorbs water and the taproot emerges. This is the birth of your cannabis plant.
\u2714Soak seeds in water for 12-24 hours
\u2714Use the paper towel method for best results
\u2714Keep temperature at 70-85°F (21-30°C)
\u2714Plant taproot-down when 0.5-1 inch long
Seedling
2-3 weeksFirst leaves appear. The plant is fragile and needs careful attention to light and humidity.
\u271418/6 light cycle (18h on, 6h off)
\u2714Keep humidity at 65-80%
\u2714Don’t overwater — most common mistake
\u2714Use mild nutrients at 25% strength
Vegetative
3-16 weeksRapid growth phase. The plant develops its structure, branches, and fan leaves. This determines final yield.
\u271418/6 or 20/4 light cycle
\u2714Start training (LST, topping, FIM)
\u2714Increase nutrients gradually
\u2714Maintain 40-70% humidity
Flowering
6-12 weeksTriggered by 12/12 light cycle. Buds form and fatten. Trichomes develop with cannabinoids and terpenes.
\u2714Switch to 12/12 light cycle
\u2714Reduce humidity to 40-50%
\u2714Add bloom nutrients (high P-K)
\u2714Watch for hermaphrodites
Harvest
1-3 daysTiming is critical. Trichome color determines potency: clear = early, milky = peak THC, amber = more CBN (sedative).
\u2714Use a jeweler’s loupe to check trichomes
\u2714Flush with plain water 2 weeks before
\u2714Harvest when 70% milky, 30% amber
\u2714Cut in morning before lights turn on