TUTORIAL SERIES: UNIQUE METHODS AND BEST PRACTICES

By: Uriel Advance Grows

• Description: Grows many small plants close together, optimizing space and achieving faster harvest cycles.
• Best Practices: Start with clones or seedlings and switch to the flowering stage when plants reach 6-12 inches. Maintain a high plant density for rapid canopy formation.
• Pros: Shorter veg time, faster harvests, and efficient use of space.
• Cons: Requires more plants, which might not be feasible in all legal environments

• Description: Avoids disturbing the soil to preserve its structure and microbial life.
• Best Practices: Use cover crops and mulch to protect the soil. Rotate crops and add compost regularly to maintain fertility.
• Pros: Enhances soil health, reduces labor, and promotes sustainability.
• Cons: Takes time to build up healthy soil and may require more initial setup.

• Description: Focuses on simplicity by using minimal inputs and relying on natural processes.
• Best Practices: Use organic soil and compost. Water with plain, pH-balanced water. Avoid overcomplicating with excessive nutrients and additives.
• Pros: Lower costs, reduced risk of nutrient burn, and easier for beginners.
• Cons: May not achieve the highest possible yields without fine-tuning.

• Description: Uses soil rich in organic matter and beneficial microbes to create a self-sustaining ecosystem.
• Best Practices: Incorporate compost, worm castings, and beneficial fungi and bacteria. Avoid synthetic fertilizers that can harm soil life.
• Pros: Improved plant health, flavor, and potency; reduced need for fertilizers.
• Cons: Requires careful management of soil conditions and can be more complex initially.

• Description: Grows plants in a nutrient-rich water solution without soil.
• Best Practices: Use a high-quality hydroponic nutrient solution. Maintain optimal pH (5.5-6.5) and monitor EC levels. Ensure good oxygenation of the root zone.
• Pros: Faster growth, higher yields, and precise control over nutrients.
• Cons: Higher initial setup costs and requires more monitoring and maintenance.

• Description: Combines hydroponics with aquaculture, using fish waste to fertilize plants.
• Best Practices: Maintain a balanced ecosystem with proper fish stocking density. Regularly test water quality and ensure good aeration.
• Pros: Sustainable and self-sufficient, produces both fish and plants.
• Cons: Complex to set up and maintain, requires knowledge of both plant and fish care.

• Description: Gently bends and ties down branches to create a flat canopy and improve light exposure.
• Best Practices: Start training early in the vegetative stage. Use soft ties and adjust as plants grow. Avoid breaking branches by bending them slowly.
• Pros: Increases yield, improves light penetration, and reduces plant height.
• Cons: Time-consuming and requires regular adjustments.

• Description: Intentionally damages stems to encourage thicker, stronger branches and increased bud production.
• Best Practices: Pinch and bend stems until they slightly break but don’t snap. Support plants as they heal and grow stronger.
• Pros: Boosts yields and resilience, improves light exposure.
• Cons: Can be risky if not done correctly and may stress plants.

• Description: Grows beneficial plants alongside cannabis to deter pests and improve soil health.
• Best Practices: Plant herbs like basil and mint to repel insects. Use nitrogen-fixing plants like clover to enrich soil.
• Pros: Reduces pest issues, enhances soil fertility, and promotes biodiversity.
• Cons: Requires planning and knowledge of compatible plants.

These methods and practices offer diverse approaches to cannabis cultivation, catering to different growing environments, preferences, and goals. Implementing them effectively can lead to healthier plants, higher yields, and a more enjoyable growing experience.