Importance

Proper nutrition is critical for plant health, potency, yield size, and overall quality.

Types of Cannabis Nutrients

• Macronutrients: Nitrogen (N) for vegetative growth, Phosphorus (P) for root and flower development, and Potassium (K) for overall health.
• Micronutrients: Includes Calcium, Magnesium, Iron, and Zinc, which are required in smaller quantities but are essential for plant health.

Nutrient Solutions

• Pre-Mixed Solutions: Commercially available mixes for different stages of growth.
• Organic Options: Natural options like fish emulsion, worm castings, and bat guano for an organic approach.

Understanding Nutrient Ratios

• Vegetative Stage: Higher Nitrogen levels for leaf and stem growth.
• Flowering Stage: Increased Phosphorus and Potassium for bud development.

How to Feed Cannabis Plants

Steps for Nutrient Feeding

• Diluting Nutrients: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for dilution.
• pH Balance: Adjust the pH of the solution to around 6.0-7.0 for soil, and 5.5-6.5 for hydroponics.
• Feeding Schedule: Apply nutrients based on the plant's growth stage and monitor for deficiencies or excesses.

Common Nutrient Issues

• Deficiencies: Symptoms like yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or poor bud development may indicate a lack of certain nutrients.
• Nutrient Burn: Over-fertilization can lead to brown, burnt leaf tips, indicating nutrient burn.

Organic vs. Synthetic Nutrients

• Organic Nutrients: Derived from natural sources, often preferred for flavor and sustainability.
• Synthetic Nutrients: Man-made, designed for quick absorption but riskier due to the potential for overfeeding.

Soil and Hydroponics

Nutrient needs may vary depending on whether you're growing in soil or using a hydroponic system.