The vegetative state of the cannabis plant is a crucial one. For commercial growers, this stage can truly make or break a crop. Unfortunately, with how deeply complex this plant is, many don’t realize how important this specific state is for the composition and growth of the cannabis plant itself. That’s why we’re here to explain.
You can find everything you need to know about the vegetative state of cannabis down below. From its importance to how to navigate it and things to look out for, this stage in the cannabis growth cycle is explained in depth.
Another Stage in the Growing Cycle
The vegetative state of cannabis may be a crucial one, but it’s not the only step in the cannabis growing cycle. In fact, the growth cycle of a cannabis plant from seed to harvest is quite a lengthy one, with each stage requiring care, attention, and dedication.
In general, we can conclude that there are about four main stages of a cannabis plant’s life, depending on how you grow it. For a less lengthy process, commercial growers can always turn to cannabis clones to skip a few of the beginning steps.
Nonetheless, it’s crucial to establish that no stage of the cannabis growing cycle is more “important” than another. That being said, some may require more attention and hands-on care than others, but they’re all vital to the production of cannabis life. These plants are more delicate and complicated than you could imagine, but with some time, care, and effort, they can thrive.
The Importance of the Vegetative State
When we talk about the vegetative state of cannabis, we’re referring to the second-to-last step in the cannabis growth cycle. Being so close to harvest, growers must understand the responsibilities behind this phase. After all, it is during this step that growers are likely to see most of their plant’s growth and their potential yield.
In general, this stage can take anywhere between three and sixteen weeks depending on one’s growing method, climate, and other factors. As marijuana plants begin to grow and sprout their signature leaves, it is up to the grower to ensure that the plants have enough space to breathe and flourish. If plants are neglected during this phase, they will not just grow nicely on their own, especially if too crowded.
Without proper care during this stage, plants simply will not grow into the potent flowers they’re meant to be. This specific phase can truly make or break the result of your cannabis plant, so act wisely and attentively. These next few weeks are not the time to get lackadaisical with your cannabis plant growth.
Navigating the Vegetative State
To properly navigate cannabis growth throughout the vegetative state, there are various things to keep in mind.
First, consider where you’re growing. Commercial growers that choose to grow indoors are going to be able to control environmental factors a bit easier than those commercial growers who grow outdoors. While one method is not better than the other, outdoor growers must keep weather, moisture, temperature, lighting, and pests closely in mind during this stage of growth. Any and all of these factors can hinder the growth of your plant, so ensure you or your growers can provide around the clock care and attention during the vegetative state especially.
While you’re paying attention to the world around your plants, be sure to provide proper watering and nutrients during this stage as well. Without water or vitamins and nutrients, just like you, your plant will not survive. On the flip side, ensure not to water your plants too much during their vegetative state; only give them water when their topsoils are completely dry. Over-watered roots and under-nourished plants can easily ruin your crop, and quite quickly, too.
Things to be Careful of
Finally, there are a few things you should be careful of during the vegetative stage of your cannabis growth.
As we hinted at earlier, during this stage, you need to closely monitor your plants’ growth. This is when they will be sprouting and growing most, and they must be properly trimmed or “topped” for this to occur. Topping your cannabis refers to the action of cutting off the top portions of your plant to help allow for more growth outwards, instead of up. Trimming excess leaves and twigs also make room for better, healthier stems to grow in their place.
With this new growth comes the need for bigger pots. Understanding whether your plant is an Indica or Sativa strain will help you be prepared for how large of a container you’ll need for your flowers, as both grow differently. While indica flowers tend to be shorter and denser, Sativa plants can grow tall and lanky.
Purchase pots that can properly handle plants these sizes, and carefully transfer them during this stage. If you forget to transfer them into larger containers, they will not have space or breathing room to grow whatsoever. This can ultimately kill your plant if you’re not cautious enough.
Along with being careful of your cannabis plants’ growth, you must be wary of potential mold or bacteria growth. If your plants are exposed to too much moisture, there’s a chance that they could develop mold during the vegetative phase. Mold and other bacteria will destroy the chances of a healthy cannabis plant and production, so keep your nose peeled for any unnatural scents or any unwanted pests.
Preserving Your Plants
From the beginning of germination to the moment you’re finally harvesting your crop, preserving your cannabis plants from start to finish is vital. Every step of the growing cycle is important for your cannabis’ life, but being extra attentive during their state of vegetative will be the key to your plants’ success.
For commercial growers, the vegetative state is truly where you’ll discover just how prosperous your cannabis grow is going to be.