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South Side Genetics

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Grow Info

Close-up of a young seedling with water droplets and a seed shell on top.

Germination

There are multiple cannabis germination techniques that can be utilized to successfully germinate cannabis seeds. While germination rates may vary and not all seeds are guaranteed to sprout, it's important to note that our seeds undergo a thorough germination test before they hit the market. Below, I will discuss a few techniques that can lead to a successful outcome, especially for those interested in autoflower growing tips as they relate to the various cannabis growth stages.

Soaking in water

Moisture is key to a successful germination, which is one of the crucial cannabis germination techniques. To start, simply soak your seed in a glass of room temperature water for anywhere between 24 and 48 hours. During this time, the seed should crack open, and a little tail will begin to grow. At that point, gently place the seedling in your grow medium and keep it moist, following these autoflower growing tips to ensure healthy cannabis growth stages.

Paper towel method

Moisten a paper towel and fold it over; you don't want it soaking wet but damp. Place the seed in the paper towel and fold it over again. Then, put the paper towel in a ziplock bag and seal it. Store this setup in a shoebox or a Tupperware container, keeping it in a dark location with a temperature between 70 and 80 degrees. A helpful tip for those following autoflower growing tips is to use a seedling heat mat. You can find various options available, such as this one: https://www.amazon.com/BN-LINK-Durable-Seedling-Heating-Thermostat/dp/B08BWZKTM9/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=WUCH9S1R9S1A&keywords=seedling+heat+mat+with+thermostat+controller&qid=1667226483&qu=eyJxc2MiOiI1LjIxIiwicXNhIjoiNC41NCIsInFzcCI6IjQuMzEifQ%3D%3D&sprefix=seedling+%2Caps%2C462&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1. There are plenty to choose from, and this is just one example. Germination can take anywhere from 12 to 72 hours. Once the tail starts to grow, you can proceed to the cannabis growth stages by placing the seedling in your grow medium of choice.

Directly in grow medium

To start your cannabis germination techniques, simply place the seed directly in your grow medium. Avoid burying it; instead, lightly cover it and ensure it stays moist. Some growers use a solo cup over the seed to create a humid environment. Over the next 72 hours, follow these autoflower growing tips by giving it a gentle spray of room temperature water, perhaps twice a day, to promote healthy cannabis growth stages.

Vegetative Stage

Young cannabis plant growing in a hydroponic setup with clay pellets.

Placing seedling in your grow medium

Once the seed is sprouted, we recommend placing it in its forever home. When following autoflower growing tips, it's important to note that autoflowers are not meant to be transplanted. Although you can transplant, doing so risks stunting the plant, which is crucial to avoid during the cannabis growth stages. Every day counts when working with autoflowers, especially when applying proper cannabis germination techniques.

Environment

When it comes to autoflower growing tips, we recommend using an 18/6 light schedule throughout the entire cycle. Ensure that your lights are positioned at least a foot and a half to two feet above the plants. For feedings, it's best to start at a quarter strength of whatever nutrients you choose, as everyone has their preferred brand. Our go-to is a basic three-part base consisting of micro, grow, and bloom nutrients. During the cannabis growth stages, particularly in the vegetative phase, incorporating a root enhancer of your choice can be very beneficial. Healthy roots lead to a happy, thriving plant. Maintain temperatures in the range of 75 to 82 degrees and keep humidity levels between 60 to 70 percent for optimal conditions. Additionally, mastering cannabis germination techniques can set the foundation for a successful growing experience.

Veg.

A typical veg stage for an autoflower can last 2 to 4 weeks, and it's one of the crucial cannabis growth stages. Usually, you will start to see preflowers around day 21. At that point, you can begin increasing the feeding and the strength of feedings. Autoflower growing tips suggest that these plants do not require much, so be careful not to overdo it. While we believe training is optional, if you feel the need to implement training, some low stress training (LST) may be beneficial.

Flowering Stage

Green cannabis plants with budding flowers growing indoors.

Flowers start to bulk up

Maintaining the same 18/6 light schedule is crucial for effective autoflower growing tips. As your cannabis plants begin to bulk up during the cannabis growth stages, ensure that the lights are positioned about 2 feet above the canopy. At this point, you can increase the strength of the feedings and start incorporating bloom boosters. It's important to keep the pH in the range of 5.5 to 6.5 for hydroponics and 6.5 to 7 for soil. Remember, the plant will continue to stretch during the early flower phase, a key aspect to consider with cannabis germination techniques.

Temps and humidity

For successful autoflower growing tips, keep the temperatures between 70 and 80 degrees, while ensuring humidity decreases to the 50/60% range. It's important to have fans running to maintain air circulation. During the cannabis growth stages, when the lights go off for the night, aim to stay within a ten-degree range of your daytime temperature. This is particularly crucial when employing effective cannabis germination techniques.

Bloom nutrients

We recommend keeping it simple with autoflower growing tips. Autoflowers will do their thing; we just want to give them a little assistance along the way. As with any cannabis growth stages, everyone has their preferred brand. Just use half strength of what's on the bottle and add as needed. At this stage, the plant will be drinking more often, so it's best to stay consistent with feedings, especially when considering cannabis germination techniques.

Final Flower / Harvest

Purple-tinged cannabis plants with vibrant green and yellow leaves.

Finishing up

As you approach the 70 to 80 day range in the cannabis growth stages, you should notice the leaves beginning to fade and change colors. This is also a time when buds will become nice and plump, showcasing excellent trichome coverage. Incorporating effective autoflower growing tips during this period can enhance the overall quality of your harvest, especially if you have utilized proper cannabis germination techniques earlier in the process.

Slowing down feedings

As you approach the end of the cannabis growth stages, it's important to slow down the feedings and begin topping off the reservoir with plain water. You’ll notice that the plant is not drinking as much anymore, allowing it to utilize the nutrients it has stored. Depending on the medium you are using, it’s time to start flushing, which involves feeding the plant with pure, clean water. Make sure to pick off any dying leaves and prepare for harvest, applying these autoflower growing tips to ensure a successful outcome.

Harvesting

Once the plant has been properly flushed, it's time to give her the chop before the lights come back on. Hang the cannabis upside down in a dark, well-ventilated area, as part of your autoflower growing tips. The temperatures should be in the sixties with humidity no higher than 62%. This drying process can take anywhere from 10 to 14 days. When the branches snap easily, cut them down to size and place them in a bucket with a gamma lid, sealing it shut for about 12 hours. After 12 hours, open the bucket and leave the lid off for a few hours, repeating these steps until you are happy with the moisture content. This technique ties in well with understanding cannabis growth stages, ensuring optimal results throughout the process.

Mature cannabis plants with colorful leaves and dense buds.

Cannabis Cultivation Advice: Essential Growing Tips

Find what works for you....

South Side understands there are many ways and different methods to go about growing your own flowers, particularly when it comes to autoflower growing tips. We try to offer the basics because there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Trial and error is your best friend in discovering your preferred cannabis germination techniques. Once you find your sweet spot in the cannabis growth stages, we recommend sticking with it and keeping it simple. We also realize that results will vary depending on the methods individuals choose. What works for us may not work for you, and vice versa. We respect that your time and the real estate in your grow area are very personal and important, so we strive to provide you with quality seeds. To assist you further, we include a freebie pack with every purchase in case mistakes are made. All of our seeds undergo multiple germination testing and are grown out by a trusted circle of experienced growers. We truly appreciate all of our customers who dedicate a spot in their grow area for our autoflowers. Thank you.

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