There have been many different methods explored to find the optimal setup for vibrant indoor cannabis production, and it is easy for a beginner to be bombarded with conflicting information. I've cultivated for years now and weeded (no pun intended) through all of the information/misinformation, and there is a bunch out there. Since there isn't too much talk on this topic on Stemmit, I thought I'd expand on cannabis cultivation a little more.
With the cannabis prohibition easing with cultural/generation, more communities are looking to ease laws and regulations. So, right now is the perfect time to make a space indoors and get planting!
First, you'll need seeds. There are many different sites which sell quality seeds, and even some suppliers on social media such as Instagram, then decide if you want photoperiod or autoflowering seeds. If you're a newcomer to growing and want to see some quick instant stable results, then totally go for autoflowers. If you live in the UK then you can easily source "souvenir seeds" legally.
Next is the soil. For a first time grow, I would strongly recommend going for a premixed soil from a quality supplier (Roots Organics, Fox Farms, etc.) and add in a little bit of minor amendments such as worm castings and mycorrhiza for fungal support. Nitrogen depletion is key in the later stages of vegetation, especially in photoperiods, so having a little more N in the mix won't hurt. This way you won't have huge fluctuations in the PH as in a hydro/coco setup and end up with deficiencies.
For the pots in an organic setup, I recommend at least 5 gallon pots; 3 gallon minimum for synthetic nutrient feedings. Airpots or SmartPot styles are my favorites. If you want to speed up the germination time, buy some rapid rooters, make a little hole, and stick it right into the soil. Then you don't have to mess with paper towels and broken tap roots.
Now, for the lighting. Lighting is key, but you want to find a light that will suit your needs. HPS, Metal Halite, LEP, and LED/COB are different types of lights. I would recommend a quality LED or COB light setup with at least 200w of power usage. MARS lights are cheap and relatively good to get you off the ground for around $100/light.
The best option for growing indoors is a tent. The walls will reflect the light, easier to regulate the temps/humidity, and will be very concealed . There are a wide range of tents out there, and you don't need to go crazy on a high quality Gorilla tent. Grab a quality inline exhaust fan, and air circulation fan for in the tent/room.
Last few tips:
» Always water till at least 20% of it runs out the pot into a tray or catch; once established water till soaked, but with less frequency; 3-5 days once established.
» Keep the temperature at 75-80 Fahrenheit /24-27 Celsius.
» Keep the humidity around 65-70% in veg-50-60% in flower.
» Buy a loupe or a magnifying glass to check the trichromes once nearing the end of flower to know when to finish the plant. Different people have different opinions, but wait at least until the bulbs are cloudy and 70% amber colored for optimal potency and yield. There is a 1-2 week window to get this just right.
There you go, in a nutshell! If you have anything else to add, or have any questions, message me or post below.
