If you are planning to grow cannabis plants outdoors, you need to understand the different stages of growth and the best practices to follow during each stage.
In this article, we will provide you with a complete outdoor grow calendar for cannabis plants that will help you manage your plants throughout the year.
Understanding the Cannabis Plant Growth Cycle
Cannabis plants go through three main stages of growth – the vegetative stage, the flowering stage, and the harvesting stage. Understanding these stages is crucial for successfully growing cannabis plants outdoors.
Vegetative Stage
During the vegetative stage, the plant grows its stems, leaves, and roots. This is when the plant is focused on growing as much as possible, and it requires a lot of light and nutrients. The vegetative stage usually lasts 2-3 months, depending on the strain and growing conditions.
Flowering Stage
The flowering stage is when the plant starts to produce buds. This is when the plant requires a different set of nutrients and light conditions. This is also when you need to start monitoring the plant closely for pests and diseases. The flowering stage usually lasts 6-10 weeks, again depending on the strain and growing conditions.
Harvesting Stage
Finally, the harvesting stage is when you will be able to harvest your buds. This stage requires careful monitoring of the plant’s trichomes and an understanding of the right time to harvest.
The Outdoor Grow Calendar for Cannabis Plants
January – February: Planning Stage
During these months, you should start planning for your outdoor cannabis grow. This includes selecting the right strains, planning your outdoor grow space, and purchasing your seeds.
Selecting the Right Strains
Different strains of cannabis have different requirements and grow at different rates. Some strains are better suited for outdoor growing, while others may be more suitable for indoor growing. Before selecting a strain, you should consider the climate in your area and the amount of sunlight and rain that your plants will receive.
Planning Your Outdoor Grow Space
When planning your outdoor grow space, you should consider factors such as soil quality, drainage, and access to water. You should also make sure that your plants will receive enough sunlight during the day.
Purchasing Your Seeds
When purchasing your seeds, you should look for reputable seed banks that offer high-quality seeds. You should also consider the strain, growing conditions, and expected yield when selecting your seeds.
March – April: Germination Stage
In March and April, you should start germinating your seeds indoors. You can also start preparing your outdoor grow space by clearing the area and adding compost or other organic materials to the soil.
Germinating Your Seeds
To germinate your seeds, you can use a variety of methods such as soaking them in water, planting them in soil, or using a paper towel. Once your seeds have germinated, you can transplant them into small pots and continue to grow them indoors until they are strong enough to be transplanted outside.
May – June: Vegetative Stage
Once your plants have sprouted, you can transplant them into your outdoor grow space. Make sure to plant them in an area with plenty of sunlight and good drainage. You should also start fertilizing your plants during this stage.
Transplanting Your Plants
When transplanting your plants, you should be careful not to damage the roots. Make sure to water your plants regularly and monitor them for signs of stress.
Fertilizing Your Plants
During the vegetative stage, your plants require a lot of nitrogen to grow. You can use a balanced fertilizer or a fertilizer that is high in nitrogen to provide them with the nutrients they need. You should also make sure to water your plants regularly and monitor the soil moisture levels.
July – August: Flowering Stage
During these months, your cannabis plants will be in the flowering stage. Make sure to monitor your plants closely for the right time to harvest. You should also start flushing your plants to remove any excess nutrients.
Providing the Right Nutrients
During the flowering stage, your plants require a different set of nutrients compared to the vegetative stage. You should switch to a nutrient mix that is specifically designed for the flowering stage. This will provide your plants with the necessary nutrients to produce high-quality buds.
Monitoring Your Plants
During the flowering stage, you should monitor your plants closely for pests and diseases. You should also check the trichomes on the buds to determine the best time to harvest.
Flushing Your Plants
Flushing your plants involves watering them with plain water for a few weeks before harvesting. This helps to remove any excess nutrients and chemicals from the plants, resulting in a cleaner, smoother taste.
September – October: Harvesting Stage
During these months, your cannabis plants will be ready for harvesting. Make sure to harvest your plants at the right time, when the trichomes have reached their peak ripeness. You should also dry and cure your buds before consuming them.
Harvesting Your Plants
To harvest your plants, you can either cut down the entire plant or harvest the buds individually. You should make sure to handle the plants carefully and avoid damaging the buds.
Drying and Curing Your Buds
After harvesting your buds, you should dry them slowly in a dark, cool place. Once they are dry, you can then cure them by storing them in airtight containers for a few weeks. This helps to improve the flavor and potency of the buds. When they’re ready to smoke, a cannabis vape pen with a vape case is the way to go.
Conclusion
Growing cannabis plants outdoors can be a challenging but rewarding experience. By following this outdoor grow calendar for cannabis plants, you can ensure that your plants are healthy and thriving throughout the year. Remember to monitor your plants closely, provide them with the right nutrients, and harvest them at the right time for the best results.
FAQs
- Can I grow cannabis plants outdoors in any climate?
Cannabis plants require a warm, sunny climate to grow outdoors. If you live in a cooler or rainy climate, you may need to consider growing your plants indoors or in a greenhouse.
- Do I need special equipment to grow cannabis plants outdoors?
No, you don’t need any special equipment to grow cannabis plants outdoors. However, you will need to provide your plants with the right growing conditions, including soil, water, and nutrients.
- How often do I need to water my cannabis plants?
Cannabis plants require regular watering, especially during the vegetative and flowering stages. You should water your plants when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
- What is the best way to store cannabis buds?
After drying and curing your buds, you can store them in airtight containers such as glass jars or vacuum-sealed bags. Make sure to store them in a cool, dark place to preserve their potency and flavor.
- Can I reuse the soil after harvesting my cannabis plants?
Yes, you can reuse the soil after harvesting your cannabis plants. However, you should add new compost or organic materials to the soil to replenish the nutrients that were used up by the previous crop.