As a beginner indoor cannabis grower, you want to make sure your plants are growing healthy and producing top-notch buds. One key factor to consider is the VPD, or vapor pressure deficit. But don’t worry, with a little bit of know-how, you can control VPD inside your grow tent like a pro.
Think of VPD as the balance between the amount of moisture in the air and the amount of moisture the plants are transpiring (or releasing). If the VPD is too high, it can cause your plants to become stressed, leading to stunted growth and low yields. On the other hand, if the VPD is too low, your plants may become too humid, leading to mold and other unwanted issues.
So how can you control VPD? Here are some simple tips that even a busy parent like you can handle:
Use a hygrometer to monitor VPD levels: A hygrometer is a simple device that measures the humidity in the air. By monitoring the VPD levels, you can adjust the humidity in your grow tent to keep it at the optimal level for your plants.
Adjust the temperature: The temperature of the grow tent can impact the VPD. By keeping the temperature between 70-80°F, you can keep the VPD in check and prevent your plants from becoming stressed.
Use fans: By circulating the air in your grow tent, you can control the VPD. You can use fans to create a gentle breeze, which will encourage the plants to transpire and release moisture into the air. Just make sure the fans are not blowing directly on the plants, as this can cause damage.
Keep the grow tent well-ventilated: Good ventilation is essential for controlling VPD. By opening vents or using an exhaust fan, you can remove excess moisture from the grow tent and prevent the VPD from getting too low.
Use a dehumidifier: If you live in a humid area, a dehumidifier can be a lifesaver. By removing excess moisture from the air, a dehumidifier can keep the VPD in check and prevent mold from growing in your grow tent.
Water your plants correctly: Overwatering your plants can lead to high humidity and low VPD, which can cause mold and other issues. Make sure to water your plants only when the top inch of soil is dry, and never water directly onto the foliage.
Use an air conditioner: If you have a large grow tent and need to control the temperature and humidity, an air conditioner can be a great investment. By controlling the temperature and humidity, an air conditioner can help you keep the VPD in check and ensure your plants are growing healthy and strong.
Now that you know the various ways to control VPD, you can feel confident that your plants will grow healthy and produce top-notch buds. As a beginner indoor cannabis grower and busy parent, controlling VPD inside your grow tent may seem like a daunting task, but with a little bit of know-how and the right tools, you can do it like a pro. So, get ready to enjoy the fruits of your labor and remember your efforts will be reflected in your harvest.
]]>One of the most important factors in determining the quality of cannabis genetics is the presence of specific cannabinoid and terpene profiles. Cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD, are the compounds responsible for the plant's medicinal and recreational effects. Terpenes, on the other hand, are responsible for the plant's aroma and flavor. Different strains of cannabis
can have widely varying levels of these compounds, and it is essential to select strains with the desired profiles for the desired effects.
Another important aspect of cannabis genetics is the plant's structure and growth habits. Different strains can have vastly different growth patterns and yields, and it is essential to select strains that will thrive in the specific growing conditions. For example, some strains are more resistant to pests and diseases, while others are better suited for indoor or outdoor cultivation.
Genetics also play a role in determining the plant's overall hardiness and resilience. Strong genetics can mean that the plant is more resistant to stress, such as changes in temperature or light conditions. This can lead to a higher yield and better quality buds.
In addition to these factors, cannabis genetics also play a role in determining the plant's overall hardiness and resilience. Strong genetics can mean that the plant is more resistant to stress, such as changes in temperature or light conditions. This can lead to a higher yield and better quality buds.
In conclusion, when it comes to growing cannabis, genetics play a crucial role in determining the quality and yield of the final product. It is essential for growers to select strains with the desired cannabinoid and terpene profiles, growth habits, and resistance to pests, diseases, mold and mildew. By selecting strains with strong genetics, growers can ensure a more successful harvest and high-quality buds. It is also important for growers to do proper research and invest in quality seed or clones to ensure they have the best genetics possible. It is a key element in any successful cannabis cultivation.
It is also important to note that genetics are not everything when it comes to a successful harvest, growers still need to provide the right conditions, fertilizers, and care for the plants to flourish. But, having quality genetics is a great foundation for a successful crop.
can have widely varying levels of these compounds, and it is essential to select strains with the desired profiles for the desired effects.
Another important aspect of cannabis genetics is the plant's structure and growth habits. Different strains can have vastly different growth patterns and yields, and it is essential to select strains that will thrive in the specific growing conditions. For example, some strains are more resistant to pests and diseases, while others are better suited for indoor or outdoor cultivation.
Genetics also play a role in determining the plant's overall hardiness and resilience. Strong genetics can mean that the plant is more resistant to stress, such as changes in temperature or light conditions. This can lead to a higher yield and better quality buds.
In addition to these factors, cannabis genetics also play a role in determining the plant's overall hardiness and resilience. Strong genetics can mean that the plant is more resistant to stress, such as changes in temperature or light conditions. This can lead to a higher yield and better quality buds.
In conclusion, when it comes to growing cannabis, genetics play a crucial role in determining the quality and yield of the final product. It is essential for growers to select strains with the desired cannabinoid and terpene profiles, growth habits, and resistance to pests, diseases, mold and mildew. By selecting strains with strong genetics, growers can ensure a more successful harvest and high-quality buds. It is also important for growers to do proper research and invest in quality seed or clones to ensure they have the best genetics possible. Genetics are not everything when it comes to a successful harvest, growers still need to provide the right conditions, fertilizers, and care for the plants to flourish. But, having quality genetics is a great foundation for a successful crop.
]]>First of all, let's talk about what living soil is and then we’ll talk about what it isn’t. Essentially, it's soil that is full of life. It's teeming with beneficial microorganisms, like bacteria and fungi, that help to nourish and protect your plants. When you grow cannabis in living soil, you're giving it the best work together to create a perfect environment for your plants to grow. They help to break down organic matter, release nutrients, and keep pests and diseases at bay.
On the other hand, topsoil you can find in gardening stores is often sterile and lacking in life. It's just plain dirt that has been stripped of all the good stuff. Sure, it might look pretty, but it's not going to do your cannabis plants any favors. They're going to have to work harder to get the nutrients they need, and they'll be more susceptible to pests and diseases.
So why is living soil so important for cannabis? Well, for starters, it means that you don't have to worry as much about fertilizing your plants. The microorganisms in the soil will take care of that for you. Plus, cannabis plants that are grown in living soil tend to have a better flavor and aroma. They're also more resilient and can handle stress better.
One of the key factors of living soil is that it is balanced. When you grow cannabis in living soil, you're giving it the best chance to thrive. The microorganisms in the soil work together to create a perfect environment for your plants to grow. They help to break down organic matter, release nutrients, and keep pests and diseases at bay.
Another thing to keep in mind is that living soil takes some time to develop. You can't just go out and buy a bag of it and expect to start growing cannabis right away. It takes time for the microorganisms to establish themselves, so you'll need to be patient. But trust me, it's worth the wait.
So, what's the bottom line? If you're serious about growing the best cannabis possible, you need to invest in living soil. It might take a little more work and patience, but in the end, you'll be rewarded with the most flavorful, aromatic, and healthy cannabis plants around. So, as Jerry Seinfeld would say, "I'm telling you, it's worth the effort."
Now, if you're looking to start growing cannabis, you might be thinking, "But wait, where can I find living soil?” Well, my dear, you can find living soil at our store GasOrganics.com We offer pre-mixed bags of living soil. Just be careful handling it since there is literally millions of bacteria inside each bag of soil. We recommend wearing a mask and gloves when handling living soil and dry amendments. Have the room that you’re in well-ventilated is another good idea. It’s also possible to make your own living soil by mixing together different types of soil, compost, and other organic materials. But, just like growing cannabis, it takes some time and effort to make your own living soil. Read our article about re-amending your soil after each harvest so you rarely if ever need to change your soil!
In conclusion, when it comes to growing cannabis, living soil is the way to go. It's teeming with beneficial microorganisms that help to nourish and protect your plants, and the result is the best-tasting, most aromatic cannabis you’ll ever experience.
]]>To Germinate Cannabis Seeds, You Will Need:
Germinating cannabis seeds may seem like a daunting task, but it's actually quite simple. Just remember to keep the seeds in a warm, dark place and make sure they have enough water. If you are a parent, you may be wondering if growing cannabis at home is safe for your family. The short answer is yes! Growing cannabis at home is completely legal in many states, and as long as you follow all local laws and regulations, it's a safe and fun way to bring a bit of nature into your home. Plus, who doesn't love the satisfaction of growing their own herbs and vegetables?
It is important to note that while cannabis is legal in many states, it may still be illegal to grow cannabis. You should always check your local laws and regulations before starting any kind of cannabis cultivation. Also, it is important to take safety precautions when growing cannabis. Keep your plants out of reach of children and pets, and make sure to store any harvested cannabis in a secure, child-proof container. Growing your own cannabis can be a fun, rewarding experience. Not only do you get to enjoy the fruits of your labor, but you also have the added benefit of knowing exactly what goes into your cannabis.
YOU REAP WHAT YOU SOW
Now that you have learned the basics of germinating cannabis seeds using the paper towel method, it's time to explore another popular method: germinating cannabis seeds directly in soil. This method is great for those who don't have access to paper towels or seedling trays, or for those who prefer a more hands-off approach to germination.
Here's What You Need To Have:
Here's What You'll Need To Do:
First, fill your pots or containers with soil, making sure to pack the soil down firmly.
Next, place your cannabis seeds in the soil, about 1/2 inch deep. You can plant multiple seeds in the same pot or container, just make sure to space them out evenly.
Water your cannabis seeds thoroughly, making sure to wet the soil thoroughly.
Place your pots or containers in a warm, dark place, just like you would with the paper towel method. The ideal temperature for germinating cannabis seeds is around 70-80 degrees Fahrenheit.
Keep the soil moist, but not soaking wet, by watering your cannabis seeds as needed.
You should start to see your cannabis seeds sprout and develop roots within a few days, just like with the paper towel method.
Once the cannabis seeds have sprouted and have developed roots, they are ready to be transplanted into larger pots or into your final growing location.
Germinating cannabis seeds directly in soil is a great option for those who want a more hands-off approach to germination. With this method, you don't have to worry about keeping paper towels moist or monitoring the seeds as closely. Just make sure to keep the soil moist and in a warm, dark place, and your cannabis seeds should sprout and develop roots just fine.
One benefit of germinating cannabis seeds directly in soil is that you can avoid the transplant shock that can sometimes occur when moving seeds from paper towels to soil. When you germinate directly in soil, your seeds are already in their final growing location and won't have to be moved, which can help reduce stress on the seeds and increase their chances of survival.
Another benefit of germinating cannabis seeds directly in soil is that you can see the progress of your seeds right in front of you. With the paper towel method, you can't see the roots developing, but with the soil method, you can watch as your seeds sprout and the roots begin to grow down into the soil. This can be a fun and educational experience for cannabis enthusiasts of all levels.
So, whether you choose to germinate your cannabis seeds using the paper towel method or directly in soil, just remember to keep your seeds warm, dark, and moist, and you should have a successful cannabis growth in no time!
]]>I love using the app called Leafly. It's a convenient way to learn about cannabis on various ways. From a grower perspective, it's a great way to find cultivars with more of a commercial appeal as most of the reviews are from areas where cannabis is available at a recreational dispensary. For me, that means the strain is well known enough for a professional master grower to decide to grow it. Also, it gives me insight of what to expect from the effects of the strain. I love learning what to expect regarding the terpenes. What are terpenes? They are the smell and taste that make high quality buds so enjoyable. They are one of the compounds found in cannabis that provide various therapeutic effects. Leafly has created a system of colors and shapes to represent the various terpenes, THC, and CBD levels. This article is their guide to understanding their system so you can use the app to help you find the best cultivars for the best results tailored to your individual needs.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"Secreted in the same glands that produce cannabinoids like THC and CBD, terpenes are aromatic oils that color cannabis varieties with distinctive flavors like citrus, berry, mint, and pine.
Terpenes may play a key role in differentiating the effects of various cannabis strains. Some terpenes might promote relaxation and stress-relief, while others potentially promote focus and acuity.
Not unlike other strong-smelling plants and flowers, the development of terpenes in cannabis began for adaptive purposes: to repel predators and lure pollinators. There are many factors that influence a plant’s development of terpenes, including climate, weather, age and maturation, fertilizers, soil type, and even the time of day.
Over 100 different terpenes have been identified in the cannabis plant, and every strain tends toward a unique terpene type and composition. In other words, a strain like Cheese and its descendants will likely have a discernible cheese-like smell, and Blueberry offspring often inherit the smell of berries.
Terpenes may also play a key role in differentiating the effects of various cannabis strains, but more studies are needed to understand how and to what extent.
Some terpenes might promote relaxation and stress-relief, while others potentially promote focus and acuity. Myrcene, for example, is found in many relaxing cannabis strains like Blue Dream and Granddaddy Purple. Terpinolene is commonly found in uplifting, active strains like Jack Herer and Ghost Train Haze.
The effect profile of any given terpene may change in the presence of other compounds in a phenomenon known as the entourage effect. More research is needed to understand each terpene’s effect when used in harmony with others.
Their differences can be subtle, but terpenes can add great depth to the horticultural art and connoisseurship of cannabis. They may also add therapeutic value to cannabis, based on their unique medicinal properties.
Many cannabis analysis labs now test terpene content, so you may have a better idea of what effects a strain might produce. With their unlimited combinations of potential synergistic effects, terpenes will certainly open up new scientific and medical terrains for cannabis research.
Leafly’s Cannabis Guide provides a visual system for understanding terpenes in the context of each strain. Using data from lab partners, Leafly can help you determine the average terpene profile of many popular cannabis strains—and our list is ever-growing.
Common cannabis terpenes are represented by different colors, which you can explore in this guide. Some terpenes are more common than others, and some tend to appear in higher abundance on average. For example, most commercial cannabis strains are myrcene dominant, meaning the most abundant terpene in their chemical profile is myrcene. You may also find strains that are dominant in caryophyllene, limonene, terpinolene, and—in rare instances—pinene.
When browsing strains on Leafly, pay close attention to the colors of strains you like and don’t like. If you prefer myrcene-dominant strains because they tend to help you relax, look for strains that contain the blue color. And let’s say you’ve had negative experiences with caryophyllene-dominant strains like Original Glue and GSC; you’d want to avoid strains with the color fuchsia."
Leafly color: Blue
Aroma: Cardamom, cloves, musky, earthy, herbal
Vaporizes at: 332ºF (167ºC)
Potential effects: Sedating, relaxing
Potential therapeutic value: Antioxidant; treatment of insomnia, pain, and inflammation
Also found in: Mango, lemongrass, thyme, hops
Leafly color: Yellow
Aroma: Citrus
Vaporizes at: 348ºF (176ºC)
Potential effects: Elevated mood, stress relief
Potential therapeutic value: Treatment of anxiety, depression, inflammation, pain, and cancer
Also found in: Fruit rinds, rosemary, juniper, peppermint
Leafly color: Fuchsia
Aroma: Pepper, spicy, woody, cloves
Vaporizes at: 266ºF (130ºC)
Potential effects: Stress relief
Potential therapeutic value: Treatment of pain, anxiety/depression, ulcers
Also found in: Black pepper, cloves, cinnamon
Leafly color: Orange
Aroma: Piney, floral, and herbal
Vaporizes at: 366ºF (186ºC)
Potential effects: Uplifting
Potential therapeutic value: Antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-fungal, anti-cancer
Also found in: Nutmeg, tea tree, conifers, apples, cumin, and lilacs
Leafly color: Green
Aroma: Pine
Vaporizes at: 311ºF (155ºC)
Potential effects: Alertness, memory retention, counteracts some THC effects
Potential therapeutic value: Treatment of asthma, pain, inflammation, ulcers, anxiety, cancer
Also found in: Pine needles, rosemary, basil, parsley, dill
Leafly color: Light green
Aroma: Hops, woody, earthy
Vaporizes at: 222ºF (106ºC)
Potential therapeutic value: Anti-inflammatory
Also found in: Hops, coriander, cloves, basil
Leafly color: Bright red
Aroma: Sweet, herbal, and woody
Vaporizes at: 122ºF (50ºC)
Potential therapeutic value: Antiviral, anti-fungal, antiseptic, decongestant, antibacterial
Also found in: Mint, parsley, pepper, basil, mangoes, orchids, and kumquats
Leafly color: Purple
Aroma: Floral
Vaporizes at: 388ºF (198ºC)
Potential effects: Mood enhancement, sedation
Potential therapeutic value: Treatment of anxiety, depression, insomnia, pain, inflammation, and neurodegenerative disease
Also found in: Lavender
]]>