When marijuana flowers: phases, care, and common mistakes

The flowering of marijuana is one of the most crucial phases in cannabis cultivation, as it determines the quality and quantity of the harvest. To maximize the yield of your plants, it is essential to understand how this stage develops and the specific care they need. In this complete guide to marijuana flowering, we will explore the flowering phases, how to manage care, common mistakes to avoid, and the differences between indoor and outdoor crops. Additionally, we will address how autoflowering plants have a different cycle than photoperiod plants.

When does marijuana flowering begin?

The flowering of marijuana begins when plants detect a change in the photoperiod. This is a key aspect in both indoor and outdoor crops. In indoor crops, this change is triggered by manipulating the light cycle, while in outdoor crops, it occurs naturally with the arrival of the autumn season.

Indoors, cannabis plants begin to flower when they receive 12 hours of continuous darkness. This photoperiod is essential for plants to transition from the vegetative phase to the flowering phase.

In outdoors, flowering begins when the days get shorter, which generally happens towards the end of summer or the beginning of autumn. Depending on the geographical location, this process may vary, but it is always related to the duration of day and night.

Below is the complete guide to marijuana flowering.

Complete guide to marijuana flowering: Phases

Pre-flowering phase

• Duration: 1–2 weeks.

During this phase, plants begin to prepare for flowering. Although flowers are not yet visible, the plants start to show signs that they are beginning to enter the flowering stage.

Care: It is important to provide adequate nutrients, especially those rich in phosphorus and potassium, to support the development of future flowers.

Early flowering

• Duration: 2–4 weeks.

It is in this stage that plants begin to develop the first pistils (the female reproductive organs). During this phase, the buds start to take shape.

Care: Keep light conditions constant (12 hours of light, 12 hours of darkness) and control temperature and humidity to prevent mold formation.

Advanced flowering

• Duration: 4–6 weeks.

The buds develop fully and begin to thicken. In this phase, the plant requires more nutrients, especially those that favor the development of large, resinous flowers. You can buy Monster Bloom among other fertilizers that contain a high amount of phosphorus and potassium.

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Care: It is crucial to reduce the nitrogen level and increase the amount of phosphorus and potassium. Additionally, monitor humidity closely to prevent pests and fungi.

Maturation

• Duration: 2–3 weeks.

This is the final phase of flowering, when the buds reach their maximum development. The trichomes (resin glands) become more visible and acquire a milky or amber tone, which indicates the right time for harvest.

Care: Avoid stress and ensure that the plants receive enough nutrients until the very last moment.

Essential care during marijuana flowering

Here is everything you need to know about marijuana flowering and its most important tips to ensure your plants are in their best state:

• Adequate light: Ensure that plants receive 12 hours of continuous darkness each day if you are growing indoors. This photoperiod is crucial to induce flowering.
• Nutrients: During flowering, your plants will need more phosphorus and potassium. Reduce nitrogen levels to prevent the plant from continuing to grow vegetatively.
• Humidity and temperature: Keep humidity between 40% and 50% to avoid fungal problems. Additionally, the ideal temperature for flowering is between 20°C and 26°C.
  

Common mistakes during marijuana flowering

Throughout flowering, growers can make some common mistakes that can affect the quality and quantity of the harvest. Here are the most common ones:

• Excess nutrients: An excess of nitrogen during flowering can cause plants to continue growing vegetatively instead of focusing on bud production.
• Incorrect watering: It is important to maintain a balance in watering. Avoid both overwatering and underwatering, as both can affect root health.
• Lack of pruning: Not pruning plants correctly during flowering can result in messy growth, reducing the quality of the buds and their exposure to light.

Differences between indoor and outdoor flowering

The flowering of marijuana plants varies significantly between indoor and outdoor crops. Here, in this guide, we explain the main differences:

Indoor cultivation

• Photoperiod control: You can control the amount of light and darkness to ensure that plants flower at the time you want.
• Advantages: You do not depend on the weather and can grow all year round.
• Disadvantages: Requires additional equipment such as grow lights and fans, which can increase costs.

Outdoor cultivation

• Dependence on the natural photoperiod: Flowering depends on the length of the days, which varies according to the season.
• Advantages: You take advantage of natural sunlight and do not have to spend on lighting.

Disadvantages: Dependence on the weather, which can lead to lower quality harvests if conditions are not ideal.

What happens if we interrupt the photoperiod?

Interrupting the photoperiod can cause serious problems in plant development:

• Stress: Any alteration in the light cycle, such as an interruption in the hours of darkness, can cause stress in the plants.
  
• Hermaphroditism: Stressed plants can develop male and female characteristics, which harms the quality of the harvest and causes unwanted pollination.
  
• Delay in flowering: Plants may delay their flowering if they do not receive the proper photoperiod.

The exception: Autoflowering plants

Autoflowering plants are an exception to the traditional flowering cycle. Unlike photoperiod plants, autoflowering plants begin to flower regardless of the photoperiod.

Advantages of autoflowering plants

• Fast growth: They have a short life cycle, generally 8 to 12 weeks.
• Resistance: They are more resistant to variable weather conditions and can be grown indoors or outdoors.

Disadvantages

Lower yield: Although they grow quickly, their size is more compact, which generally results in lower yields than photoperiod plants.

Understanding this complete guide to marijuana flowering is essential to obtain a successful harvest. Additionally, it is important to know the common mistakes to avoid and how autoflowering plants offer an interesting alternative for growers looking for faster cycles.

By following these tips and adjusting the care of your plants according to their needs, you will be able to maximize the yield and quality of your harvests.