TUTORIAL SERIES: FLOWERING STAGE CARE TUTORIAL

By: Uriel Advance Grows

Objective: To maximize bud development and potency during the flowering stage of cannabis plants by providing optimal care and environmental conditions.

Materials Needed

• Cannabis plants in the vegetative stage
• Flowering nutrient solution
• pH meter
• Grow lights (HPS, LED, or other suitable flowering lights)
• Fans for air circulation
• Thermometer and hygrometer
• Water pH between 5.8 - 6.5 (hydro and coco) or 6.0 - 7.0 (soil)
• Pruning shears

• Change Light Schedule: Switch to a 12/12 light/dark cycle to induce flowering. Ensure complete darkness during the 12-hour dark period to prevent stress and hermaphroditism.
• Autoflowering Plants Light Cycle: Autoflowering plants do not require a change in light cycle and will flower based on age. Continue providing 18-24 hours of light.
• Light Intensity: Use high-intensity lights such as HPS or LED, placing them 12-24 inches above the canopy. Adjust height based on light type and plant growth.

• Flowering Nutrients: Switch to a nutrient solution designed for flowering, high in phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) with lower nitrogen (N). Start with 1/2 strength and gradually increase based on plant response.
• Autoflowering Plants Feeding and Care: Follow similar nutrient and care guidelines as photoperiod plants during flowering.
• pH Levels: Maintain water and nutrient solution pH between 5.8-6.5 for hydro and coco, and 6.0-7.0 for soil.

• Temperature: Maintain day temperatures between 70-80°F (21-27°C) and night temperatures 5-10°F cooler.
• Humidity: Keep humidity levels between 40-50% to prevent mold and bud rot. Lower humidity as flowering progresses.

• Watering Frequency: Water plants when the top inch of the soil is dry (for soil) or when the medium starts to dry out (for coco and hydro). Avoid overwatering.
• Nutrient Solution: Feed plants with the flowering nutrient solution, adjusting based on plant health and stage of flowering.

• Fans: Use oscillating fans to provide good air circulation, prevent mold, and strengthen stems.
• Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation to exchange air and maintain CO2 levels. This is crucial for bud development.

• Defoliation: Remove large fan leaves that block light from reaching lower bud sites. Be cautious not to over-prune.
• Support: Use trellis netting or plant supports to manage heavy buds and prevent branches from breaking.

• Daily Checks: Inspect plants daily for signs of nutrient deficiencies, pests, or disease. Look for yellowing leaves, spots, or unusual growth patterns.
• Adjustments: Make necessary adjustments to nutrient levels, pH, light height, and environmental conditions based on plant health.

• Flushing: In the last 1-2 weeks before harvest, flush the growing medium with plain pH-balanced water to remove excess nutrients and improve taste.
• Ripeness: Monitor trichomes using a magnifying glass or microscope. Harvest when trichomes are milky white with some amber for the desired potency and effects.

• Timing: Harvest plants when the majority of trichomes are at the desired ripeness stage. Cut branches and trim large fan leaves.

• Patience: Allow plants to fully mature during the flowering stage to ensure maximum potency and yield.
• Observation: Regularly monitor and respond to plant needs. Early intervention can prevent major issues.
• Cleanliness: Maintain a clean grow environment to prevent pests and diseases.

Proper care during the flowering stage is crucial for the overall quality and yield of your cannabis buds. By following these steps and tips, you can ensure your plants develop potent, high-quality flowers. Let me know if you need any further details or adjustments!