Posted on 20 November 202417 January 2025 by Joe

The Power of Micronutrients in Cannabis Cultivation

Last week, we explored the essentials of watering cannabis and managing macronutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK). This week, we’re delving deeper into an often-overlooked but equally vital aspect of cannabis nutrition: micronutrients. While required in smaller amounts, micronutrients are crucial for a plant’s metabolic processes, structural development, and cannabinoid production.

In this blog, we’ll highlight the key micronutrients your cannabis plants need, how they function, and practical tips to ensure your plants get the right balance for optimal growth and yields.

What Are Micronutrients, and Why Do They Matter?

Micronutrients are trace elements that cannabis plants require in small quantities but are essential for overall health and development. Unlike macronutrients, which support bulk growth, micronutrients play a regulatory role in processes like enzyme activation, photosynthesis, and stress resistance.

Key Micronutrients for Cannabis:

Iron (Fe): Vital for chlorophyll synthesis and energy transfer.

Zinc (Zn): Essential for hormone production and enzyme activity.

Manganese (Mn): Supports photosynthesis and nitrogen metabolism.

Copper (Cu): Aids in lignin synthesis and overall structural integrity.

Boron (B): Critical for cell wall formation and reproductive growth.

Molybdenum (Mo): Helps convert nitrogen into usable forms.

While deficiencies in these elements can lead to stunted growth, yellowing leaves, or poor bud formation, proper management ensures your plants thrive.

Signs of Micronutrient Deficiency in Cannabis

Micronutrient deficiencies can be subtle at first but quickly impact plant health if left unaddressed. Here’s how to identify common deficiencies:

Iron Deficiency: Yellowing between leaf veins (chlorosis), especially in new growth.

Zinc Deficiency: Stunted growth, smaller leaves, and distorted bud development.

Manganese Deficiency: Yellow or brown spots on leaves and slowed photosynthesis.

Copper Deficiency: Dark green leaves with tips turning purple or wilting.

Boron Deficiency: Deformed or brittle leaves and slow stem growth.

Sources of Micronutrients: Organic and Synthetic Options

Ensuring an adequate supply of micronutrients can be achieved through organic amendments, synthetic fertilisers, or foliar feeding. Here are some options to consider:

Organic Sources:

Compost and Worm Castings: Rich in trace elements and beneficial microbes.

Seaweed Extracts: Provide a natural source of micronutrients like zinc and boron.

Rock Dust: Contains iron, manganese, and other minerals.

Fish Emulsion: Includes trace amounts of molybdenum and copper.

Synthetic Micronutrient Supplements:

Chelated micronutrient blends ensure better absorption in varying soil pH conditions.

Use sparingly to avoid over-fertilization, which can lead to toxicity.

Foliar Feeding:

Quick absorption of micronutrients through the leaves is ideal for addressing deficiencies rapidly.

Optimising Micronutrient Absorption

Certain factors can limit their availability even if your soil or fertiliser contains adequate micronutrients. Understanding these conditions is key to optimising absorption.

Factors Influencing Micronutrient Uptake:

Soil pH: Micronutrients are most bioavailable in slightly acidic soils (pH 6.0–6.5). Alkaline soils often lock out iron, zinc, and manganese.

Soil Drainage: Poor drainage leads to waterlogging, reducing oxygen and microbial activity, which are essential for nutrient uptake.

Compaction: Hard, compacted soil restricts root growth and limits access to nutrients.

To maximize micronutrient absorption:

Regularly monitor and adjust pH levels.

Improve soil structure with amendments like perlite or coco coir.

Incorporate humic acid to enhance nutrient availability and root development.

Pro Tips for Flowering Nutrition:

Add micronutrient boosters during the flowering phase for optimal bud production.

Use organic top-dressings like rock dust or bone meal for a slow-release effect.

Ensure your watering routine supports even distribution of nutrients.

Balancing Micronutrients for Cannabis Success

While micronutrients are essential, over-supplying them can lead to toxicity, which harms your plants as much as deficiencies do. For example, excess copper can cause leaf burn, while too much boron can disrupt root development. Striking the right balance is critical.

Tips for Micronutrient Balance:

Start with a soil test to understand your starting nutrient levels.

Use micronutrient-specific fertilizers only when deficiencies are evident.

Rotate between organic amendments and synthetic supplements for a balanced approach.

Final Thoughts: Small Elements, Big Impact

Micronutrients may be needed in small amounts, but their impact on cannabis health and yield is profound. By ensuring your plants receive a balanced diet of iron, zinc, manganese, and other trace elements, you can elevate their growth, potency, and resilience.

As you continue refining your nutrient management practices, remember that attention to detail in these small elements can lead to big rewards—healthier plants, richer harvests, and a thriving garden you can be proud of.

Posted on 13 November 202422 January 2025 by Joe

Watering Cannabis and Managing Nutrients

Over the past weeks, we’ve covered a wide range of foundational topics for cultivating thriving cannabis plants, from composting to plant training. This week, we’re honing in on a crucial part of the cultivation process: watering and nutrient management. Proper watering and a balanced nutrient approach are essential for promoting healthy growth, enhancing cannabinoid yield, and achieving optimal plant health.

Let’s dive into best practices for watering cannabis and managing nutrients, from understanding NPK ratios to maximizing the benefits of organic fertilizers and biostimulants like humic acid.

The Essentials of Cannabis Watering: Striking the Right Balance

Water is the lifeline of your cannabis plants, but too much or too little can hinder their growth. Overwatering is a common mistake, leading to root rot and nutrient lockout, while underwatering stresses the plants, limiting their nutrient uptake and development. I normally will say to guys just starting. To lift their pots and feel the weight. Do this before watering and after watering. This will give you an indication of the amount of water content present in the pot. When you check upthe next day or two on your plants when you lift the pots up you will notice the difference in weight which would translat back to the amount of water the plants absorbed over the period of time.

Watering Best Practices:

Frequency and Amount: The amount of water needed depends on factors like growth stage, plant size, and environment. As a general rule, water deeply but less frequently, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.

Monitor Drainage: Cannabis plants require well-drained soil to prevent waterlogging. Ensure your pots have sufficient drainage and consider using a soil mix that retains moisture without becoming waterlogged.

pH Levels: Maintain a water pH of 6.0–6.5 for soil-grown plants and 5.5–6.0 for hydroponics. Adjusting pH as needed prevents nutrient lockout and ensures your plants can absorb essential minerals efficiently. In the future we will dive into Ph more. I have written on this topic in my ‘ pH doesn’t matter’ blog.

Managing Nutrients: The NPK Foundation

Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), and Potassium (K)—collectively known as NPK—are the primary nutrients cannabis plants need throughout their growth cycle. Each element plays a specific role:

Nitrogen: Crucial for leaf and stem development, especially during the vegetative stage. Adequate nitrogen supports lush, green foliage that maximizes photosynthesis. Most times we are over feeding nitrogen at the incorrect times of the plant’s growth. To ensure you do not over feed. A good rule of thumb is always, Less is more. So, by halving your Nitrogen inputs you can ensure that the plants still receive the crucial Nitrogen they require.

Phosphorus: Supports root development and is vital during the flowering stage for energy transfer and bud formation. Very Airy flowers are often a result of a lack of Phosphorus inputs. During the flowering period, growers need to focus on ensuring that phosphorus is getting to the plant as intended.

Potassium: Enhances overall plant health, helping with water absorption, nutrient transport, and disease resistance.

During the vegetative phase, cannabis requires a higher nitrogen concentration to support rapid leaf and stem growth. When shifting to flowering, reduce nitrogen and increase phosphorus and potassium for optimal bud development and potency. Some growers like to flush nutrients out of their pots to ensure that no excess nitrogen nutrient remains present during the transition period of the plants.

Enhancing Nutrient Uptake with Humic Acids and Biostimulants

Humic acid is a powerful biostimulant that promotes nutrient uptake and enhances soil structure. Studies show that humic acid boosts microbial activity in the soil, making nutrients more available to plant roots and also improving nutrient absorption efficiency, allowing plants to make the most of each feeding.

Biostimulants can be added as part of a regular nutrient regimen or mixed into the soil before planting. For cannabis, humic acid supplements encourage stronger roots, faster growth, and greater tolerance to environmental stressors.

Organic Fertilisers: Sustainable Choices for Healthier Plants

Organic fertilisers provide essential nutrients slowly, enhancing soil health over time and supporting beneficial microbial activity. A recent study found that organic fertilizers improve overall nutrient balance, especially during the flowering stage, where they enhance cannabinoid production and bud density organic fertiliser Options for Cannabis:

Compost and Manure: These are high in organic matter and beneficial microbes, gradually releasing nutrients. Please make sure to read last weeks Composting blog to learn more about how to handle raw manure and more.

Fish Emulsion: Rich in nitrogen, it is especially beneficial during the vegetative stage.

Seaweed: Another amazing source of Nitrogen for plants as well as hormones to stimulate growth.

Bone Meal: A source of phosphorus for root development and flowering.

Combining organic fertilisers with humic acid creates an environment that supports robust, resilient plants. Organic amendments also provide a long-lasting nutrient reservoir, reducing the need for frequent feedings.

Many of these including the Natural Farming techniques we have previously discussed are all valid inputs to achieve healthy organic flowers.

Watering and Feeding Schedule: Tips for Consistency

Creating a consistent schedule helps you avoid over- or under-watering and ensures your plants receive balanced nutrients throughout their life cycle.

Many growers rely on an automatic watering system, some have drip lines and others have flood and drain systems. Even thought this will take the work out of watering plants. It still requires growers to be attentive and aware of drip rates, nutrient mixtures and potential leaks that can cause damage. Just looking at the agricultural industry as a whole will unlock any and all types of irrigation for you. So if you wish to go this route, you need to just take some time. Plan everything correctly and go for it. Irrigation systems are often very simple. Opening and closing of valves can easily be implemented to manually control the flow of fertigation.

Suggested Schedule:

Vegetative Stage: Feed plants every 1–2 weeks with a balanced NPK formula, keeping nitrogen levels high. Water deeply, allowing the soil to dry between sessions. Monitor the soil moisture, during this period plants tend to take up the water a little bit faster, generally, there is also more intense sun during this stage.

Flowering Stage: Shift to a lower nitrogen mix with increased phosphorus and potassium. Add organic fertilisers to enhance soil health and cannabinoid production, supplementing with humic acid biweekly for nutrient uptake. Along with Humic acids are many other biostimulants that can add great benefit to your flowering cycle. It is important to note, however, that taking things too far at this point in time will drastically change your plant’s flowers. Be mindful of the extras you add during this time.

Final Thoughts: Optimize Watering and Nutrients for Vibrant Cannabis Growth

Watering cannabis and managing nutrients effectively is an art that takes practice. By understanding NPK ratios, incorporating organic fertilisers, and leveraging biostimulants like humic acid, you can create an environment where your cannabis plants thrive. Consistent attention to watering and nutrient balance will lead to healthier plants, higher cannabinoid yields, and ultimately, a successful harvest.

Posted on 6 November 202415 January 2025 by Joe

Composting, How it works

In the past weeks, we’ve delved into everything from propagation techniques to plant training strategies. This week, as your cannabis plants continue to grow, it’s time to focus on one of the foundational practices that can significantly enhance their health and yield: composting. Composting is a simple, natural way to enrich your soil, and it’s an investment that pays off over time. With methods like hot composting, Hugelkultur, and bokashi, you have several options to suit your needs, each bringing unique benefits to your cannabis cultivation.

While creating compost may seem straightforward, it can become time-consuming on a larger scale without efficient tools. Let’s explore how to get started with composting, the different techniques available, and the best ways to manage raw materials for a successful composting process that supports your cannabis garden.

The Basics of Composting: Transforming Waste into Vital Nutrients

Composting is a natural process where organic materials decompose to form a nutrient-rich substance that resembles humus. Through aerobic decomposition, microorganisms break down green (nitrogen-rich) and brown (carbon-rich) materials, turning waste into compost. This final product, packed with microbes and essential nutrients, enhances soil structure, aids water retention, and stimulates root growth—perfect for cannabis cultivation.

Hot composting is a highly efficient way to create compost. This method relies on maintaining a high temperature within the compost pile to speed up decomposition. Hot composting, as described in your resources, can yield garden-ready compost in as little as three months if managed well. This quick turnaround makes it ideal for cannabis growers who need a steady supply of compost.

Hot Composting: Quick, Effective, and Full of Nutrients

Though labour-intensive, hot composting is one of the fastest and most effective methods. Here’s how to get started:

Layer materials: Begin with a foundation of brown materials (like straw or dried leaves), alternating layers of greens (like vegetable scraps or fresh grass clippings) with browns to maintain a balanced carbon-to-nitrogen ratio. Make sure to keep the Browns material to a small size. Having large wood pieces will slow the quick composting down. So do your best to have twigs and sticks as small as possible.

Maintain moisture: The pile should be moist but not soaking; aim for the feel of a wrung-out sponge. I always say, to start by adding water to the piles as you build them. Not too much but wet everything as you build your brown layers.

Incorporate some dirt or Soil: Adding in a small amount of dirt with your brown layers will help with moisture but also beef up your compost pile. Make sure that the dirt does not exceed 10% of the total browns.

Monitor temperature: Use a compost thermometer to ensure the pile reaches around 55–60°C. When it hits this range, turn the pile to aerate it and regulate heat.

Turn regularly: Flip the pile each time it hits the ideal temperature range, usually every few days.

By following these steps, you’ll have nutrient-rich compost in 2–3 weeks, perfect for the soil. Or even as a top dress for your growing plants. More advanced growers will use this compost in their compost teas, ensuring the bioavailability of the nutrients.

Hugelkultur: Long-Lasting Nutrients and Moisture Retention

Hugelkultur is a unique form of composting that’s perfect for cannabis gardens requiring long-lasting, slow-releasing nutrients. Originating from German permaculture, Hugelkultur involves burying large logs or branches at the base of a planting bed, which slowly decomposes over time. This decomposition provides a continuous source of nutrients and helps retain moisture, reducing the need for frequent watering.

Over the years, the sophistication of Hugelkultur’s have gotten better. Consider not only adding large wood pieces at the bottom but also some stones too. Over time this will also provide minerals to the soil as it breaks down slowly over time. The higher up the Hugelkultur is built the smaller the materials are that make up each layer. In the end, it will be a little mound that will be able to sustain life perpetually over time with very minimal inputs.

This method is ideal for outdoor cannabis growers who want a sustainable, low-maintenance approach to soil enrichment. As the wood breaks down, it becomes a natural sponge, holding water and releasing nutrients slowly—making it an excellent foundation for cannabis plants that require consistent moisture and nutrient availability.

Bokashi: A Fermentation-Based Approach

Bokashi composting is an anaerobic (oxygen-free) fermentation process, perfect for indoor composting or small spaces. By adding a microbial inoculant, typically a mixture of lactic acid bacteria, yeast, and other beneficial microbes, bokashi breaks down organic material without odour. This method is ideal for home growers who need a compact solution for composting kitchen scraps.

The fermented material from bokashi can be added to your compost pile or buried directly in the soil. It speeds up the composting process and enriches the soil, especially beneficial for cannabis roots that thrive in a microbe-rich environment. Bokashi’s compact process also makes it accessible for those with limited space. You can find various types of Bokashi compost bins for home use online. Building one can be simple too. The main thing is to use an effective microbial solution to break down your scraps. Also, make sure that you can drain liquid strain from the Bin. this will be gold for Compost teas too.

Fish Hydrolysate: A Nutrient-Rich Boost for Your Cannabis

Fish hydrolysate, a liquid fertilizer made from whole fish or fish waste, is another excellent compost addition. It’s rich in nitrogen, amino acids, and minerals that support robust growth and flowering in cannabis plants. Unlike traditional fish emulsion, fish hydrolysate is cold-processed, retaining more nutrients.

However, making this is not really ideal for your neighbours and the smell can be overwhelming. So please be mindful if you are going to attempt this. Whole fish with a little bit of water crushed, mixed with unsulphured molasses. Good luck.

For cannabis growers, adding fish hydrolysate to compost or directly to soil can enhance microbial activity and enrich nutrient levels. Just remember that fish products can attract pests, so take care when applying them outdoors. You can also look at buying quality fish hydrolysate from reputable brands already established in our country.

Handling Raw Manure: High in Nutrients, But Use with Care

Raw manure is a powerful nitrogen source but requires careful handling due to potential pathogens and its tendency to burn plants if applied fresh. When composted properly, manure can be transformed into a safe, effective fertilizer that’s perfect for cannabis.

If this is the route you are going. Ensure that you pile up all the manure together in a big enough pile for it to generate heat. At least a cubic meter in height. Make sure, just like with the quick hot compost that the manure is not too wet, if it is add some dirty, straw or dry leaves to it. Monitoring the pile will be important so having the tools to measure the temperature. Unlike with the Hot compost pile, you need to kill pathogens so avoid touching it with your hands and have a thermometer at hand. Once the pile reaches the ideal temperature, start turning it. Once the entire pile has been turned and left to reach the temperature, has no odor and is blackish in colour it will be ready to use in your gardens.

Making Compost Work for Your Cannabis Garden

From hot composting to the innovative Hugelkultur and bokashi methods, composting offers cannabis growers a sustainable, effective way to boost soil health. Creating your own compost is simple, but as your scale increases, it can become time-consuming without efficient tools or systems. However, the results— richer soil, healthier roots, and more robust plants—are well worth the investment.

Taking the time to understand and implement these composting methods is a gift to your cannabis garden. Not only will it enhance the growth of your plants, but it also brings a deep sense of connection to the natural processes that sustain them.

Posted on 30 October 202422 January 2025 by Joe

Cannabis Sativa L: The People’s Plant

As the season progresses, I believe I’ve shared some valuable insights and concepts for cultivating a thriving cannabis garden. Over the past two months, we’ve explored a range of topics, from propagation to transplanting and plant training, all crafted to help you maximise your growing efforts. This week, however, I want to pause and focus on Cannabis sativa L. itself—the “people’s plant.”

After weeks of “how-to” guides, it’s essential to let the plants breathe, to implement the practices we’ve discussed, and to give your cannabis the time it needs to flourish. Today, we’re celebrating the many dimensions of this remarkable plant and the impact it continues to have on both our lives and our environment.

The Rich Spectrum of Cannabis: More Than Just a Plant

Cannabis is often hailed as the “plant of a thousand molecules.” This remarkable diversity of compounds is what gives it such a broad spectrum of uses. From therapeutic cannabinoids to aromatic terpenes and protective phenolics, cannabis is a natural pharmacy, encapsulating compounds that support wellness, relieve pain, and foster mental clarity. The plant’s fibrous qualities even extend beyond health, as it provides strong, sustainable fibres suitable for textiles, bioplastics, and even construction materials like hempcrete.

Today, Cannabis is recognised in two parts. Cannabis as Medicine and Hemp as an Industrial plant, with its applications. There are over 700 different cannabis varieties and each one has its own unique application in the field. Making Cannabis one of the most versatile plants in the world.

Each compound found within Cannabis sativa has a unique role, whether in enhancing health or in contributing to the resilience of the plant itself. For example, cannabinoids, which include THC and CBD, interact with the human endocannabinoid system to help manage pain, anxiety, and inflammation. Meanwhile, terpenes lend cannabis its signature aroma and provide additional therapeutic effects, enhancing the efficacy of cannabinoids in what is known as the “entourage effect.” We have written some blogs on both of these topics in the past. There are so many more things to learn about cannabis as a whole. We are still discovering new cannabinoids, like the new THCP (tetrahydrocannabiphorol) sai to be 30x stronger than the staple THC compound.

Sustainability and Innovation in Cannabis Cultivation

In the current age of environmental awareness, cannabis stands out as a crop that aligns beautifully with sustainable farming principles. This fast-growing plant has a minimal environmental footprint and a range of applications that promote eco-friendly industries. For instance, cannabis fibres, both cellulosic and woody, are strong yet biodegradable, offering a renewable alternative to traditional synthetic materials in industries such as automotive, fashion, and packaging.

Companies like The Greater Value Industrial Project, GVIP are using hemp to make South Africa’s Net-Zero Carbon initiative a reality by providing a real solution to a coal alternative, community integration and a sustainable model to ensure The Just Energy Transition Implementation plan of South Africa is met. Moving us from a Scope-2 Emissions country to a Green economy.

The plant’s deep-rooting system helps prevent soil erosion, and its low water requirements make it more sustainable compared to other fibre crops like cotton. The result is a crop that’s not only beneficial for those who use it but also for the environment it grows in.

The Phytochemicals of Cannabis: Natural Molecules with Power

Cannabis isn’t just a source of cannabinoids. It also contains terpenes and phenolic compounds that contribute to its medicinal properties. Terpenes like limonene, pinene, and myrcene offer their own therapeutic benefits, such as reducing inflammation, anxiety, and pain. These compounds, along with cannabinoids, work synergistically to amplify cannabis’s effectiveness—a phenomenon well-known to cannabis enthusiasts as the “entourage effect.”

In addition to cannabinoids and terpenes, cannabis contains unique phenolic compounds, including flavonoids like cannflavin A and B. These compounds have potent anti-inflammatory effects, with the potential to contribute to pain relief and healing in new and innovative ways.

Cannabis Trichomes: Nature’s Tiny Factories

Cannabis trichomes, the tiny, crystal-like structures covering the plant’s surface, are where the magic happens. These trichomes house the plant’s primary chemical compounds—cannabinoids, terpenes, and phenolics—making them critical to the plant’s potency and therapeutic value. Not only do trichomes protect the plant from predators and environmental stress, but they also serve as tiny chemical factories, producing compounds that enhance the plant’s resilience and our own well-being.

Trichomes are an essential focus for growers and researchers alike, as their density and health directly affect the quality and potency of cannabis. With advancements in cultivation and extraction techniques, we’re now able to harness these compounds more effectively than ever, making cannabis an even more valuable resource for health and wellness.

The Promise of Cannabis Biotechnology

In recent years, biotechnological advancements have unlocked even more possibilities for Cannabis sativa. Genetic engineering, tissue culture, and metabolomics are just some of the tools researchers are using to enhance the plant’s natural abilities. For example, scientists are developing cannabis strains with specific cannabinoid profiles tailored to treat different conditions, from chronic pain to neurological disorders. There is also ongoing work to increase the yield and resilience of cannabis crops, making them more efficient to grow in diverse climates and conditions.

Through biotechnology, we are poised to make cannabis more accessible and beneficial for a broader range of applications, reinforcing its place as “the people’s plant.” Some might argue that doing this is taking away from the natural beauty and power of the plant, and that is ok too. We should all have our opinion on how industries as a whole should work around the plant. But we cannot take away from the great benefit that biotechonogical advancements have made for us in the cannabis industry.

Cannabis: A Symbol of Cultural Resilience

Throughout history, Cannabis sativa has been a plant of the people, cherished across cultures and continents. From traditional uses in textiles and medicine to its revival as a source of wellness, cannabis holds a unique place in human history. It represents resilience, adaptation, and the powerful connection between humans and nature.

As we continue to explore and expand its potential, cannabis remains a symbol of sustainable growth, cultural significance, and boundless opportunity. For those who cherish cannabis, it is more than a plant—it is a source of healing, innovation, and inspiration.

Posted on 23 October 202422 January 2025 by Joe

Maximise Your Yields With Cannabis Training

Last week, we explored the crucial steps for transplanting cannabis plants and how ensuring proper root space can boost growth and yields. This week, we’ll build on that by diving into cannabis plant training—a set of techniques that allow you to shape your plants and maximise their potential. Whether you’re growing in smaller spaces or aiming for bigger harvests, plant training is key to optimising your grow. Some of these techniques also tie back to topics we’ve covered before, such as cannabis propagation and root health, both of which are essential to achieving the best results.

Today we are looking at the concepts and in weeks to come we will break down the various techniques what we really think and how you should approach things with each one. For now, we will look at the overall concept.

Why Train Your Cannabis Plants?

Cannabis plants, if left to grow naturally, will focus their energy on a single, dominant cola at the top. While this produces a single, large bud, it leaves much of the plant’s potential untapped. Through plant training techniques, you can encourage your cannabis plants to spread their energy across multiple bud sites, leading to more colas, fuller canopies, and ultimately larger yields.

Plant training is also crucial for those growing in smaller spaces. Techniques like low-stress training (LST) and high-stress training (HST) allow you to manipulate the shape and structure of the plant, controlling vertical growth and optimising light exposure for all bud sites.

Low-Stress Training (LST): Gentle Yet Effective

Low-stress training (LST) is one of the most popular methods for home growers, particularly those with space constraints. This gentle technique involves bending and tying down branches to encourage horizontal growth. By doing so, you can create a fuller canopy that maximises light penetration to all parts of the plant, increasing bud production.

How to Perform LST:

Bend the branches: Use soft ties to gently bend the branches away from the main stem, spreading them out horizontally.

Tie them down: Secure the bent branches in place using string or plant ties, allowing the plant to maintain this new shape.

Adjust as needed: Continue to adjust and tie new growth throughout the vegetative stage.

The beauty of LST is that it minimises stress on the plant, allowing for continuous growth with little recovery time. As we’ve previously mentioned in our blog on transplanting, maintaining the right conditions—especially after any form of stress—helps ensure your plants bounce back quickly and develop strong root systems to support larger yields.

High-Stress Training (HST): Pushing for Bigger Yields

For those seeking even larger yields, high-stress training (HST) involves more aggressive manipulation of the plant. HST techniques like topping, super cropping, and mainlining involve deliberately stressing the plant by cutting or crushing parts of it to force new growth.

Topping:

Topping is the process of removing the main growing tip of the plant, which encourages the plant to develop multiple colas rather than focusing on one dominant bud. This technique is perfect for controlling vertical growth and spreading the plant’s energy across several bud sites.

How to Top Cannabis Plants:

Use sterilised pruning shears to cut off the main growing tip after the plant has developed at least 4–5 nodes.

The plant will respond by growing two new shoots from where the cut was made, doubling the number of potential colas.

What is F’imming

F’Im standings for “F – I missed” Which is a technique that has now been incorporated in some growers plant yielding toolkit. Instead of topping, he first notice of this was when growers cut the main grow point in half or just above half. Instead of removing the main node itself. This slows the main growing process like with topping but also lets it continue to grow from that main point once that side branches grow out. F’imming promotes more lateral growth.

Super Cropping:

Super cropping involves crushing the stems of your cannabis plant to increase hormone production and redirect energy to other parts of the plant. This technique not only increases resilience but also promotes larger yields by exposing more bud sites to light.

How to Super Crop:

Identify the branch you want to manipulate.

Gently crush the stem between your thumb and fingers until it becomes pliable, then bend it over and tie it down.

Both HST and LST are great for maximising yields, but keep in mind that high-stress techniques require a longer recovery time. As mentioned in last week’s blog, cannabis plants are highly resilient, but ensuring the right care post-training is essential for preventing unwanted stress or damage.

Techniques for Small Grow Spaces: SOG and ScrOG

For growers working with limited space, techniques like Sea of Green (SOG) and Screen of Green (ScrOG) are highly effective. These methods focus on optimising canopy development, ensuring that even in tight quarters, your plants receive the right amount of light and airflow.

Sea of Green (SOG):

SOG involves growing many small plants close together and flipping them into the flowering stage earlier than usual. This method encourages faster harvests with smaller, but more frequent yields. Since the plants stay compact, it’s ideal for growers with height restrictions.

Screen of Green (ScrOG):

In ScrOG, a trellis net is used to spread the plant’s canopy horizontally. As the branches grow through the net, they are tied down to maximise light exposure across all bud sites. This technique requires more maintenance but delivers larger yields per plant, making it perfect for maximising space.

Choosing the Right Training Method

Choosing between low-stress training and high-stress training depends on your grow space, experience, and goals. If you’re new to cannabis cultivation, starting with LST may be the best option. It’s a simple way to control plant growth without risking damage. On the other hand, if you’re an experienced grower looking to push your plants to their limits, high-stress techniques like topping and super cropping can lead to impressive yields when done correctly.

No matter which method you choose, remember that the health of your roots plays a crucial role in how well your plants respond to training. As we discussed in previous posts about plant health and root development, healthy roots lead to stronger plants and, ultimately, better yields.

Train for Success

By using plant training techniques, you can control the shape and size of your cannabis plants, maximise light exposure, and boost your overall yields. Whether you’re working with limited space or just looking to get the most out of your grow, methods like LST, HST, SOG, and ScrOG provide you with the flexibility to tailor your grow setup to your needs.

As always, make sure you’re working with healthy plants and the right tools for the job. Proper plant training is an investment in time a

Posted on 16 October 202417 January 2025 by Joe

Why Transplanting Matters for Cannabis Plants

In last week’s blog, we explored the importance of male cannabis plants and their role in breeding and genetic preservation. This week, we’re shifting our focus to a critical practice that can make or break your harvest—transplanting. Knowing when and how to transplant your cannabis plants can significantly affect their overall size and yield. After all, the saying goes, “The size of the roots equals the size of the fruits.”

Healthy roots lead to stronger plants, bigger flowers, and, ultimately, a more successful harvest. Whether you’re growing cannabis in soil, coco, or even a single-size rockwool cube, understanding the transplanting process can help you maximize the potential of your crop.

Why Is Transplanting Cannabis Plants So Important?

Transplanting is essential for giving your plants the room they need to develop healthy and expansive root systems. In solid mediums like soil or coco, cannabis roots can become root-bound—when roots have grown to the point of encircling the inside of the pot, limiting further growth. Root-bound plants will slow down in vegetative growth, which in turn limits their ability to produce large, resinous buds.

By transplanting your cannabis plants into larger containers at key points in their growth, you allow the roots to spread out, absorb more nutrients, and support bigger plants with more abundant yields.

How Often Should You Transplant Cannabis Plants?

Generally, you’ll want to transplant your cannabis plants 2–3 times during their life cycle. While some growers prefer to plant directly into larger pots, this can lead to waterlogging and overwatering issues, especially early on. Smaller pots allow for faster root development, but eventually, your plants will need more space. Its important to increase the size of the pot relative to the growth expected of the plant too. To transplant into a slightly bigger pot will not help and will be counter productive to the growth of your plant.

Seedlings and Early Vegging: Start in small seedling pots or solo cups. Transplant when your plants develop at least three nodes. Some growers will even top their young vegging plants in these smaller pots to ensure they get the growing structure they want.

Vegetative Growth: Move your plants into larger pots, around 11–19 litres (25–30 cm in diameter). Keep them in this pot until they’ve roughly doubled in size. To avoid root-bound in this phase of the plant’s life is crucial. So ensuring that you monitor your plant’s growth patterns is important. Once growth stagnates, consider your last transplant.

Final Pot: Before flowering begins, transfer your plants to their final pots, typically around 38–60 litres, depending on how large you want your plants to grow. Remember that your plants will rapidly expand in growth again during this transition period, so it is important to maximise your efforts at this point. You can even plant your cannabis into the ground if this will give you better-maximising potential towards the end. When doing this, consider all the other things we discussed with the soil food web, soil conditioning and soil preparation as a whole.

For photoperiod strains, this transplanting schedule ensures that the roots have enough room to develop without becoming constrained, while also minimizing the risk of transplant shock.

Here is a table to help you figure out some basics around pot sizes.

Can You Grow Cannabis in a Single-Size Rockwool Cube?

Interestingly, cannabis can be grown in a single-size rockwool cube without the need for multiple transplants. Rockwool provides an optimal air-to-water ratio for root growth, allowing plants to thrive even when the cube remains the same size throughout the growth cycle. However, rockwool’s porous nature means that precise control of watering and nutrient levels is critical. In commercial growing operations, Rockwool is often the ideal medium selected due to its size. Allowing for high production, less cost and little to no dirt.

While this method is convenient and reduces the need for re-potting, it’s important to monitor your plants closely. Make sure that the roots don’t become too constricted within the cube, and adjust your watering to avoid issues like waterlogging or root rot.

How to Transplant Cannabis: Step-by-Step Guide

Transplanting cannabis is a delicate process, and taking extra care during the transition will minimise transplant shock.

Prepare your new pot: Fill it with fresh, high-quality soil, leaving enough room to fit the plant’s current root ball. What I normally do is, I will take the current pot the plant is in and place it inside the bigger pot I am transplanting in. Filling the soil around it. This ensures that you have enough room for the plant exactly. Just make sure you don’t plant it too deep in the new pot.

Water your plant: A day or two before transplanting, water the plant to make it easier to slide out of its current pot. You don’t want completely moist soil. This will break more easily and cause more harm. You do not want the soil dry Either. So consider your watering schedule and transplanting.

Remove the plant: Gently tip the plant and pot upside down, supporting the root ball with your hand. Avoid pulling on the stem to prevent root damage. You can try squeezing gently onto the pot first to loosen the root ball from the pot too

Transplant carefully: Place the plant into the new pot, and fill in the remaining space with soil. Lightly press down to secure the plant. When doing this step. It’s important to inspect the roots of the plant. It’s not often that you get to do this so it’s important to have a look. Are they nice and white, are they dark brown and dead?
You might want to consider pruning some dead roots off if you see some. This will also help promote and stimulate newer growth. What I personally like to do is gently break the bottom of the root ball open to help the roots grow into the new soil or pot. Just a tip I learnt from an old farmer.

Water again: Water the plant lightly to help it settle into its new environment.

What About Autoflowering Cannabis?

While photoperiod cannabis strains benefit from multiple transplants, auto-flowering cannabis should ideally be planted directly into its final pot. Autoflower strains flower based on age, not light cycles, so the stress from transplanting can slow their growth and reduce yields. To a point that the entire grow will flop. There is very little room for error with auto-flowering cannabis. Their cycles are so short that the risk of transplanting is not something growers are urged to take. If you must transplant an auto-flower, do so early, and be extremely careful to minimize stress on the roots.

Transplanting for Bigger Yields

In cannabis cultivation, the size of the roots truly does determine the size of the fruits. Healthy, expansive roots allow your plants to absorb more nutrients, grow larger, and ultimately produce bigger flowers. Whether you’re growing in traditional pots or a single-size rockwool cube, understanding how and when to transplant your cannabis plants is key to maximising your yields.

When you get into the flow of cultivating transplanting becomes a fun activity you look forward to. It is that little bit of time you get to fully get your hands dirty again during all the monitoring and oversight periods of cultivation.

Posted on 9 October 202422 January 2025 by Joe

Male Cannabis Plants: A Breeders Secret Weapon

In our previous discussion on cannabis plant propagation, we explored how cloning can preserve genetic consistency and streamline your growing process. Today, we’re shifting our focus to an often misunderstood yet vital aspect of cannabis cultivation: male cannabis plants. While traditionally overlooked due to their lack of flower production, male cannabis plants play a critical role in breeding and preserving the genetic diversity of this plant. In fact, their value has grown among home growers and breeders who wish to create unique strains and preserve heritage genetics.

What Are Male Cannabis Plants?

Cannabis plants are dioecious, meaning they have separate male and female individuals. Unlike their female counterparts, which produce the cannabinoid-rich flowers prized by consumers, male cannabis plants produce pollen sacs that fertilise the female plants. This fertilisation results in seed production, rather than the dense, smokable buds that growers and consumers usually seek. However, when used in a controlled environment, male cannabis plants offer a range of benefits for both breeding and cultivation.

Why Male Cannabis Plants Matter in Breeding

In cannabis cultivation, maintaining a strong genetic pool is essential for producing healthy, potent plants with desirable characteristics. Male cannabis plants are indispensable for breeders who wish to cross strains and create new hybrids. By selecting strong, disease-resistant males with favourable traits, breeders can influence the next generation of cannabis plants to exhibit specific qualities. It is important to note that male plants are considered to be the most dominant genetic transferer. This means the next generation will most likely be more influenced by the male plant than the female. These include things like:

Terpene profiles: Male plants can pass on unique flavours and aromas to the next generation. You will often see male plants are more fragrant while being in a young veg phase. These young male plants can even have visible terpene oils on their stems.

Growth patterns: Male plants generally have a rapid growth rate compared to their female strain counterparts. This must not mislead the understanding here. Things like node space, leaf-to-calyx ratio and overall growing patterns are what an ideal male will transfer over in a desired breeding program.

Cannabinoid profiles: Although male plants produce lower levels of cannabinoids like THC, they can still contribute to a well-rounded cannabinoid profile in their offspring.

For breeders, male cannabis plants are essential for preserving rare genetics and experimenting with strain creation. They help create new strains with unique effects, aromas, and flavours and allow cultivators to maintain a vibrant gene pool, avoiding inbreeding and genetic weakening.

The Debate: Pollen Chucking and Unintended Pollination

The rising popularity of male cannabis plants, especially among home growers and amateur breeders, has sparked a significant debate in the growing community. While breeding is an exciting way to create new strains, improper pollen handling—often referred to as “pollen chucking”—can lead to unwanted pollination. I have written about this in the past, so check that out too. Because I argue that every breeder started off by chucking pollen. And that perhaps this is a natural part of the process. Go read the blog and let me know… Regardless, this is a major concern for neighbouring growers, as male plants can pollinate female plants nearby and afar, resulting in seed-laden flowers instead of potent, seedless buds.

Growers must ensure that male cannabis plants and their pollen are handled in tightly controlled environments to prevent accidental pollination. One stray pollen sac could compromise entire crops in nearby gardens. This debate has led to discussions on ethical breeding practices, emphasising the importance of keeping male plants and their pollen isolated unless the grower is intentionally breeding. If that’s natural or not and if something should be done.

A New Market: Pollen for Sale

As the cannabis market continues to evolve, so does the demand for male cannabis plants and their pollen. Today’s breeders and home growers can now purchase cannabis pollen much like seeds, directly from breeders focused on preserving genetics and creating unique flavours. This new market caters to breeders who want to explore new strain combinations or preserve the genetics of rare or heritage strains without having to grow and maintain male plants themselves.

By sourcing pollen from reputable breeders, growers can ensure they are using high-quality genetics. It allows for precise control in breeding projects and reduces the risk of hermaphroditic traits and weak genetics that can result from uncontrolled pollination. This is just another amazing showcase of how a group of motivated and skilled cannabis professionals can unlock a new potential given the obstacles that arise. Our industry is booming because of these types of things. Innovation is driven and solutions that benefit growers, smokers and medical patients alike are created. This really makes me happy.

Other Benefits of Male Cannabis Plants

Aside from their vital role in breeding, male cannabis plants offer several additional benefits to your garden:

Pest control: Male cannabis plants, though lower in terpene content than females, still release natural fragrances like limonene, borneol, and pinene. These terpenes act as natural insect repellents, helping to protect your crops from pests.

Fertiliser: Because males are so fast growing too they possess slightly more growth hormones than females. When growers cull the males, they can make Fermented plant juice with it.

Soil enrichment: Male cannabis plants have extensive taproots that can help improve soil quality by increasing the absorption of water and nutrients. After they’ve served their purpose in breeding, they can be composted or mulched to provide micronutrients to your garden.

Don’t Overlook Male Cannabis Plants

While male cannabis plants may not produce the smokable buds most growers desire, their importance in breeding, genetic preservation, and overall garden health cannot be overstated. For those interested in creating new strains or preserving genetics, male plants offer a world of possibilities. However, it’s essential to handle male plants responsibly to prevent unintended pollination and protect neighbouring gardens.

It is striking how many cannabis users don’t know that there is a difference between male and female cannabis plants. So please share this with whoever can benefit from it. It is important for us all to do our part and educate the community around us. I hope That you have enjoyed our ‘How to Grow’ series up until this point.

Please leave a comment below. All feedback is welcomed.

Posted on 2 October 202417 January 2025 by Joe

Cannabis Plant propagation

This grow series has started to take shape. We have discussed the most basic concepts and have transitioned into an organic look and approach. Today I want to focus on something else. In previous blogs, I have touched on the topic slightly but never really dedicated time to discussing the concepts you need to consider.

If you’re looking to grow a consistent, high-quality cannabis crop, mastering the art of plant propagation is essential. Plant propagation, specifically cloning, is a popular and rewarding method for maintaining genetic consistency and keeping your favourite strains alive. I believe it is a skill set that comes with passionate growers and those who truly want the best cannabis. Because you will make a plan to keep what is considered a ‘Cash Crop.’

What is Cannabis Plant Propagation?

In essence, the most common plant propagation technique used is cloning. A simple yet effective way to create ‘new’ cannabis plants from the existing plant. Referred to as the Mother plant. Cloning allows growers to make an identical copy of the mother plant, allowing for the expansion of the same genetics to either increase yields – growing more of the exact same plant, preserve the genetics of the plant or even start up a nursery of dank you know others would love.

For cannabis growers, propagation through cloning offers several advantages:

Consistency: Each clone will produce similar yields and quality, as they are genetic replicas. When the cuttings are taken at the optimal time the genetic preservation is kept. Clones give those who need consistency in their yields that the market appreciates more than anything.

Cost-Effective: Most home growers really benefit from this. Because budget and funds are usually tight for growing cannabis. Clones offer home growers the chance to know what they will get as well as provide them with a continuous growing cycle if the propagation is done consistently within the right timeframes. Yes, you won’t have variety but it is also cheaper to buy a clone than to purchase seed.

Speed: Clones root faster than seeds germinate, allowing for quicker harvests. This cannot be underestimated. Some growing methodologies like the indoor Sea of Green. Allows growers to take harden-off clones, give them a week of veg light and then flip them straight into flower. This can cut down grow time by many many weeks.

Best Methods for Cannabis Plant Propagation

There are two primary methods of cannabis propagation: Vegetative Propagation (Cloning) and Tissue Culture.

Cloning

The most common method for cannabis propagation is vegetative cloning. This involves taking a cutting from a healthy mother plant and encouraging it to grow roots. You want to ensure that your mother plant is in a matured vegetative phase. Cutting from young vegging plants will work too, but your chances of stunting the growth of the plant will be higher. Or at least the amount of clones you can take will be less. Be mindful of where on the plant you select to cut. Not all Clones are cut equally. The higher up on the plant the more supple the stems will be as well as the concentration of growth hormones. While cutting from lower down on the plant might give a slower rooting clone, it will be harder in the stem which can produce a more robust plant from the get-go. Great for clones going outdoors.

Steps for Successful Cloning:

Select a healthy mother plant: Ensure the plant is disease-free and has strong genetics.

Prepare your cutting: Choose a healthy branch with strong growth tips. Cut at a 45-degree angle just below a node.

Apply rooting gel: Dip the cutting in the rooting gel to seal the cut area and encourage root growth.

Plant the cutting: Place the cutting into a moist, pH-balanced starter cube and keep it in a propagation tray with high humidity.

Monitor and mist: Spray the cuttings daily to keep them hydrated. Rooting typically occurs within 7–10 days.

Cloning is a simple and reliable way to propagate cannabis, but maintaining the right environmental conditions—consistent humidity, temperature, and lighting—is critical for success. Many growers fail to keep things in check which causes the attempts at cloning to fail.

Today, our markets are so sophisticated that we need not look further than our local grow shop to get all the supplies we need. But things like cloning gels are also not really a need. You can use Aloe vera, honey, Cinnamon or even just nothing. It’s more important to ensure that once you have cut the clone you do not let air into the bottom of the cut. So to stick it in the water is much better. Then thereafter, put it in rooting gel etc…

Tissue Culture Propagation

Tissue culture is a more advanced method of cannabis propagation. Instead of taking cuttings, this method involves culturing cells or tissue in a sterile environment. Tissue culture allows for the rapid production of many clones from a single plant in a small area, which is especially beneficial for large-scale growers. The protocols around Tissue Culture can vary from strain to strain which has made it challenging to create an effective home use out of this technology for now. So it is no surprise that only high-tech medical facilities consider this technique. You can propagate thousands of plants from some small pieces of tissue. It’s rather crazy science.

Best Time to Plant Clones

The timing of planting cannabis clones is critical for successful growth. It’s best to plant your clones once they’ve developed a strong root system, which typically happens after 7–14 days in the propagation tray. The ideal time to plant is during the vegetative growth phase when your environmental conditions are optimized for root and stem development.

Avoid planting clones too early, as they may not have strong enough roots to survive the transplant process. Ensure that temperatures are stable, and your lighting and humidity levels are well-regulated to avoid transplant shock. You can also start by transplanting into smaller containers and allow for the roots to be established in this fashion. Sticking a tiny clone directly into the soil outside will not be the way to go. Be mindful of that.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Cannabis Plant Propagation

Overhandling cuttings: Once your cuttings are placed in their propagation cubes, avoid touching or moving them frequently, as this can damage delicate root systems. The process needs to be done effectively and swiftly. When you take your cuttings make sure all your tools are in the right place. Ready to go. The French would say, “Mise en place”

Poor sanitation: Always sterilize your tools and work area to prevent the spread of disease. Clones are so vulnerable to dying that this cannot be overlooked. Keep everything clean.

Inconsistent environmental conditions: Clones need stable humidity, light, and temperature. Fluctuations can hinder root development. Causing clones to be yellow and look thin.

Clone Count: Don’t overcrowd your propagation trays. Often growers take too many clones and try and fill the propagation trays to the brim. This causes issues when the cuttings are moist from mist and are touching one another.

Why Clones Can Be an Easier and More Rewarding Approach

Cloning is often considered easier than growing cannabis from seeds, especially for cultivators aiming for consistency. It’s hard sometimes to nurture something from the start during its most delicate times. Let’s also be realistic. Not everyone has the time to germinate and care for young seedlings. So investing in some sound genetics and clones can take the headache away. You know the quality to be expected as the genetic is a copy of the mother.

When growing from seed there are many surprises that can easily challenge your skills. Although, there are challenges they are not as difficult with clones. Making the reward for the cannabis flowers so much better. When home growers invest in clones from sound nurseries. It’s almost a guarantee they will stick to it because of the ease into the growing transition it provides.

Mastering Cannabis Plant Propagation

All growers in my opinion must learn this skill. There will come a time in your growing cycle when you find a plant that is just so exceptional that you cannot just let it go. To have this skill set in our tool kit as a grower has allowed us to keep genetics alive for a very long time.

I hope this encourages you this season to try to take your own clones and or invest in them this season to make things a bit easier and more rewarding.

Posted on 25 September 202417 January 2025 by Joe

Integrated Pest Management in a nutshell

Last week, we explored Korean Natural Farming (KNF) techniques, including how to make Effective Microbe solutions (EM-1) and fermented plant juices. Now, let’s dive into how these methods, along with an effective Integrated Pest Management (IPM) system, can protect your cannabis plants from pests naturally.

What is Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for Cannabis?

Simply put, Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a proactive, eco-friendly approach to pest control that revolves around protecting your cannabis plants throughout their growing period. Rather than relying on harsh chemicals, IPM combines various strategies, including companion planting, beneficial insects, natural sprays, and preventive measures. This holistic system prioritizes plant health, reduces environmental damage, and helps build long-term resilience in your garden.

Now don’t get me wrong. Some farmers today still rely on the use of pesticides and harsh insecticides in order to solve their pest issues. As effective as they are, we have learnt and have seen the damaging effects on the water, soil and health of people this has had. So please pardon me that I don’t discuss things like Pyrol, Eco oil SK etc. I am not against the use of these compounds as I have used them in the past and still make use of some of them when I really need to. An example of this would be Potassium Scilicate. An inorganic compound that is apart of my IPM and I will explain why later.

Getting Started with Companion Planting: The Foundation of IPM

One of the simplest and most effective ways to begin your IPM journey is by incorporating companion plants. Cannabis, while valuable to humans, is also highly attractive to pests. Companion planting can help deter harmful insects while attracting beneficial ones. Your garden will thrive once you have a balance in nature. So with this, there needs to be a sense of awareness from the farmer that there will be pests but there will also be predators. And having a balance is what we are aiming for.

Popular companion plants for cannabis include:

Marigolds: Known to repel nematodes and aphids.
Garlic and onions: Their strong scent drives away many insects.
Basil and mint: These herbs repel flies and mosquitoes while enhancing flavor when grown near cannabis.
Chamomile and lemon balm: Attracts beneficial pollinators while repelling pests like aphids.

These plants not only assist with pest control but can also be used to create fermented plant juices or Oriental Herbal Nutrients (OHN) for plant health, utilising your EM-1 solutions.

Introducing Natural Predators: Your Garden’s Tiny Guardians

While companion planting lays a solid foundation, introducing beneficial insects can take your IPM strategy to the next level. These insects act as your garden’s natural pest controllers, maintaining a balanced ecosystem. Here are a few garden-friendly bugs you’ll want to invite:

Ladybugs: These beetles are aphid-eating machines.
Lacewings: Both adults and larvae feed on a variety of soft-bodied pests like caterpillars and aphids.
Praying Mantises: These predators will consume just about any insect they can catch, including larger pests.
Parasitic Wasps: Though tiny, these wasps play a crucial role in pest control by laying their eggs inside destructive insects.

To ensure these beneficial insects stick around, provide them with food, water, and shelter. Companion plants like chamomile and basil create the perfect habitat for these valuable predators. Another solution can also be to buy them as you need or see fit. The predator insect market has boomed over the last 5 years opening up once an agricultural elite IPM treatment to the average Joe like you and I. Companies like Koppert have done an amazing job by even offering pheromones for specific insect trapping too.

Preventive Measures: Building a Strong Defense

Prevention is key when it comes to pest management. It sometimes can seem extreme to take action on something that doesn’t require any work. But when it comes to your cannabis. This approach is best. Just the basics in garden ethics can also be considered being proactive.

Proper Sanitation: Regularly clean your growing area, removing dead leaves, debris, and any infected plants to reduce the risk of pest infestations. A clean grow area will do more than just look good to the eye. It will help reduce risk of mould and diseases.

Regular Inspections: Make daily inspections a habit. Catching pests early can prevent a full-scale infestation. But also take note. That seeing One or two of something doesn’t always call for an intervention. So while inspecting be aware of the sizes of the things you see and learn what is too much. You don’t want to wait till things are overboard before you intevine.

Quarantine New Plants: Always quarantine any new plants before introducing them to your main garden to avoid cross-contamination. This is something you must consider when bringing clones in from a new space to plants already in your space. It is normally advised to seperate them and treat the new plants before bringing them into the fold.

Natural Sprays and Solutions: These are usually things that can take long to take effect compared to an insecticide like Pyrol. But consider adding an amazing KNF solution called JADAM wetting agent to your solutions of oriental herbal nutrients. Jadam as been proven to suffocate insects and because of its properties allows for better application of all sprays and solutions.

If pests do make an appearance, you can fight back with natural solutions that are safe for both your plants and the environment. Here are a few simple DIY recipes you can try:

Neem Oil Spray: Mix 1 teaspoon of neem oil and ½ teaspoon of liquid soap with 1 quart of warm water. This all-purpose spray combats a wide range of pests like aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies.

Garlic-Pepper Spray: Blend 2 hot peppers and 1 whole bulb of garlic with 1 quart of water. Strain and spray this mixture to deter insects like caterpillars, aphids, and beetles.

Diatomaceous Earth: This powder, made from fossilized algae, works by physically damaging the exoskeletons of crawling insects. Dust it around your plants for effective pest control.

AQ sf (Ampelomyces Quisqualis): an Indigenous fungal isolate to South Africa, and a hyper parasite to the common Powdery Mildew. Mixed in with a water or JADAM solution.

Potassium Silicate: Fills the cellular gaps within the plant wall structure, allowing for a more robust in-the-wind plant as well as a plant with tougher skin for insects to bite into. As well as making it extremely undesirable for fungus to thrive, so it also takes care of powdery mildew.

Creating Your IPM Schedule: Consistency is Key

A successful IPM system requires regular maintenance and monitoring. You can easily avoid massive issues by just doing the following:

Daily: Perform visual inspections of your plants for any signs of pests or disease.

Weekly: Apply preventive sprays, rotating between different natural solutions to avoid resistance.

Bi-weekly: If you’re using beneficial insects, release them into your garden at this frequency.

Monthly: Conduct a deep clean of your grow room or garden area to reduce pest hiding spots.

Integrated Pest Management is more than just controlling pests—it’s about building a sustainable ecosystem that promotes plant health and resilience. Your Will will be tested as a grower every season. Pests and diseases are often what collapse what seemed to be a perfect grow. So take the time to develop your IPM based on the previous season’s experience. And if you are brand new, take time to go into your garden and assess what is going on. Are there any issues already and what can you do to take measures against it now before you grow your cannabis in the space? A strong IPM strategy not only ensures a bountiful harvest today but sets you up for success in future growing seasons.

Posted on 18 September 202417 January 2025 by Joe

Fermented Plant and Fruit Juice (FPJ and FFJ)

As promised, this week I willl be giving some awesome recipes that you can make at home to incorporate into your fertigation regimint and start a full Korean Natural Farming Journey. Before I can just list down a bunch of recipes we need to continue some of the discussion on KNF, so if you havent checked out last weeks blog on Korean Natural Farming, I highly suggest you start there. And for those that haven’t been following along, these blogs are apart of a larger ‘How to Grow’ series in which I will be providing insightful concepts to consider during this growing season.

The first spring rain has fallen this week. Such an amazing time for us Growers. The first rain does more than just bring in the season’s grow metaphorically. The first rain for the season has been proven to activate life and the soil food web as a whole. Many bacteria and fungi will lay dormant and wait for the rain. So when people usually ask me when I plant I normally say after the first rain. When considering Soil conditioning as a whole. The first rain really produces and activates all that you have prepped in your soil prior. The mineral content from the rain is usually exactly what you were lacking… So embrace this first rain.

Fermented Plant & Fruit Juice (FPJ and FFJ)

FPJ and FFJ are natural fertilizers made from the fermentation of specific plant materials to feed growing plants during different stages of their life cycles. FPJs are made from young vigorous growing plants with lots of growth hormones and enzymes to feed vegging plants. While FFJs are made from the fruits of plants for their natural sugars, amino acids, and plant growth regulating enzymes and hormones to feed flowering plants. The process involves collecting fresh and healthy plant parts, such as leaves, stems, shoots and fruits, and fermenting them to extract the beneficial properties into a water-soluble plant available solution.

It is extremely simple yet so effective. All you need is brown sugar, a decent glass jar with a big opening(which makes things easier), a scale and some basic kitchen utensils. Oh, and a cloth or breathable towel to cover the glass with.

Collecting Plant Material

For FPJ gather fresh and healthy plants early in the morning when morning dew is still present. Look for things like weeds that grow big fast and are tolerant to a wide range of temperatures or weather patterns like floods or droughts. The enzymes, hormones and microbial life in and on these plants helping them thrive is what we are after. When collecting plant material, remember that young shoots have the highest levels of these plant growth hormones. A few plants that can be used here in South Africa, Alfalfa, comfrey, Gooseberry, and Banana. In the picture above I used clover, it was the over crop under the canopy that grew to thick. It’s essential to use plants that are free from diseases and pests and to not wash the microbial life off the plant material.

FFJs are made the same way as FPJs but it may be a little harder to come by natural growing fruit in your area. Do a little research on the nutrient density of different fruits to see what fruits or veggies you can grow in the garden that will make good natural fertilizers. Using craps of fruits are just as effective. Banana peels, watermelon rind etc… Ensure that you make your FFJ according to the nutrient boost you wish to give your plants. The doing your research part is so important. You will also be surprised how many veg and fruit you already have going to waste that could be used to ferment for your plants and garden as a whole.

Chopping and Mixing

Chop the collected plant material into smaller pieces for more surface area coverage then mix with equal parts by weight brown sugar. This helps in breaking down the cell wall of the plant material creating osmotic pressure and releasing juices packed full of the plants beneficial properties. I have seen a method, using a 20L plastic bucket a few holes at the bottom.You chop and mix your plant material or fruits and once you place it in the bucket you add a brick ontop of it. This will apply pressure and also allow the juices to separate out of the bucket.

Fermentation

Place the chopped plant material/brown sugar mix in a container and cover with a sugar cap. Then cover container loosely with something breathable like a clean shirt, rag or paper towel to keep bugs out. Allow it to undergo natural fermentation. This process encourages the growth of beneficial microorganisms and the breakdown of plant materials.

Here are some things I would recommend you ferment for your garden. Note, that there are different ways to skin a cat. Each one of these things have its own benefits but can also be used in synergy with other ferments.

Alfalfa – Unlocking nutrients and growth hormones such as Triacontanol which can improve growth, yield, root formation, photosynthesis, uptake of water and nutrients, nitrogen-fixation and enzyme activities.

Bamboo/young cannabis plants – rich in nutrients, can improve soil conditions and possess many medicinal properties. Due to the fast-growing nature of young plants, they are often high in auxins and cytokines, hormones involved with growth and vigour.

Lactic Acid Bacteria – Amazing for soil conditioning, plant health and overall immune of the plant.

Dilution and Application

Before using, dilute FPJ or FFJ with water. Typically, a dilution ratio of 1:500 or 1:1000 is recommended. This means mixing 1 part FPJ or FFJ with 500 or 1000 parts water (1ml per L / 3.7ml per gal or 2ml per L / 7.4 ml per gal). After 6 months use at a higher dilution rate. The diluted FPJ or FFJ can be applied as a foliar spray or added to the soil to provide readily available food to plants and microbial life.

Other Fermentations and Recipes.

Some ferments focus purely on fungal growth. Similar to our discussion last week on IMO. Cannabis thrives in both bacteria and fungal soil. So to have a balance is of utmost importance. Here are other things you can consider making to increase your fungal count in the soil. Corn Sprouted Tea, Bokashi Bran and Compost tea without molasses, also will increase your fungal count.

You can also make your own effective Microbes. Go to your compost heap. Dig out some from the middle section that is nice and warm. Place this in a breathable cloth or bag… Slowly run water through the bag. The slower you can trickle the water the stronger the collection of microbes will be. You want to only collect a small amount of dark liquid.

Do the following

Use L distilled water, and pour out double the amount you have collected from the the compost, the leach. Add the leach and an equal amount of molasses to the distilled water. Close the cap. Let it ferment and open the cap once a day to let gas out. In 4 days you will have EM-1, which can be used to quicker enhance your teas or fermentations. EM can also be used as part of the integrated pest management(IPM) something we will discuss very soon too.

In conclusion

It is important to note when you are adding your fertilizer to the plants. During the very early veg stages compost teas, fermented plant juices and fruit juices should not be necessary. If you find yourself having to ‘feed’ young plants, then you should consider taking extra time to prepare the soil first. In your first month of growing cannabis from seed or clone. It is easy to overfeed and give too much. Sometimes it’s better to wait. Less is always more.

But once you understand when and what to fertilise your plants with. Brewing and fermenting your own fertilizer seems like a no-brainer.