{"id":220447,"date":"2026-01-09T10:00:00","date_gmt":"2026-01-09T09:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.growbarato.net\/blog\/?p=220447"},"modified":"2026-01-05T12:40:20","modified_gmt":"2026-01-05T11:40:20","slug":"photoperiod-in-cannabis-an-easy-guide-to-understanding-light-hours","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.gbthegreenbrand.com\/blog\/photoperiod-in-cannabis-an-easy-guide-to-understanding-light-hours\/","title":{"rendered":"Photoperiod in cannabis: an easy guide to understanding light hours"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p><strong>The photoperiod is one of the most important concepts for anyone growing cannabis, whether indoors or outdoors.<\/strong> Understanding how light and dark hours work allows you to know when the plant is in a growth phase, when it starts to flower, and how to adjust its development easily. In this guide, you&#8217;ll learn <strong>what the photoperiod is, how to apply it correctly, and which light cycles work best depending on the plant type and your experience level,<\/strong> even if you are a beginner.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_85 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<label for=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-6a30bf1252cc2\" class=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-label\"><p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Contenido<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-cssicon\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/label><input type=\"checkbox\"  id=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-6a30bf1252cc2\"  \/><nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gbthegreenbrand.com\/blog\/photoperiod-in-cannabis-an-easy-guide-to-understanding-light-hours\/#What_the_photoperiod_is_and_why_It_affects_cannabis\" >What the photoperiod is and why It affects cannabis<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gbthegreenbrand.com\/blog\/photoperiod-in-cannabis-an-easy-guide-to-understanding-light-hours\/#Photoperiod_by_time_of_year\" >Photoperiod by time of year<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gbthegreenbrand.com\/blog\/photoperiod-in-cannabis-an-easy-guide-to-understanding-light-hours\/#Indoor_photoperiod_The_easiest_approach_for_beginners\" >Indoor photoperiod: The easiest approach for beginners<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gbthegreenbrand.com\/blog\/photoperiod-in-cannabis-an-easy-guide-to-understanding-light-hours\/#Most_common_cycles\" >Most common cycles<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gbthegreenbrand.com\/blog\/photoperiod-in-cannabis-an-easy-guide-to-understanding-light-hours\/#Recommended_photoperiod_by_growth_stage\" >Recommended photoperiod by growth stage<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gbthegreenbrand.com\/blog\/photoperiod-in-cannabis-an-easy-guide-to-understanding-light-hours\/#Common_mistakes\" >Common mistakes<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gbthegreenbrand.com\/blog\/photoperiod-in-cannabis-an-easy-guide-to-understanding-light-hours\/#Photoperiod_according_to_plant_type\" >Photoperiod according to plant type<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gbthegreenbrand.com\/blog\/photoperiod-in-cannabis-an-easy-guide-to-understanding-light-hours\/#Photoperiod-dependent_plants_Feminized\" >Photoperiod-dependent plants (Feminized)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gbthegreenbrand.com\/blog\/photoperiod-in-cannabis-an-easy-guide-to-understanding-light-hours\/#Autoflowering_plants\" >Autoflowering plants<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gbthegreenbrand.com\/blog\/photoperiod-in-cannabis-an-easy-guide-to-understanding-light-hours\/#Step-by-step_guide_to_adjusting_the_photoperiod\" >Step-by-step guide to adjusting the photoperiod<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gbthegreenbrand.com\/blog\/photoperiod-in-cannabis-an-easy-guide-to-understanding-light-hours\/#Photoperiod_yield_and_energy_savings\" >Photoperiod, yield, and energy savings<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gbthegreenbrand.com\/blog\/photoperiod-in-cannabis-an-easy-guide-to-understanding-light-hours\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions_FAQ_About_Cannabis_Photoperiod\" >Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Cannabis Photoperiod<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gbthegreenbrand.com\/blog\/photoperiod-in-cannabis-an-easy-guide-to-understanding-light-hours\/#What_is_the_photoperiod_in_cannabis_and_why_is_it_important\" >What is the photoperiod in cannabis and why is it important?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gbthegreenbrand.com\/blog\/photoperiod-in-cannabis-an-easy-guide-to-understanding-light-hours\/#How_many_hours_of_light_does_marijuana_need_to_grow\" >How many hours of light does marijuana need to grow?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gbthegreenbrand.com\/blog\/photoperiod-in-cannabis-an-easy-guide-to-understanding-light-hours\/#What_is_the_best_photoperiod_for_autoflowering_plants\" >What is the best photoperiod for autoflowering plants?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gbthegreenbrand.com\/blog\/photoperiod-in-cannabis-an-easy-guide-to-understanding-light-hours\/#What_happens_if_I_interrupt_darkness_during_1212\" >What happens if I interrupt darkness during 12\/12?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gbthegreenbrand.com\/blog\/photoperiod-in-cannabis-an-easy-guide-to-understanding-light-hours\/#When_does_outdoor_flowering_start_according_to_the_photoperiod\" >When does outdoor flowering start according to the photoperiod?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gbthegreenbrand.com\/blog\/photoperiod-in-cannabis-an-easy-guide-to-understanding-light-hours\/#Can_I_use_the_same_photoperiod_for_all_plants_in_the_same_grow_tent\" >Can I use the same photoperiod for all plants in the same grow tent?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_the_photoperiod_is_and_why_It_affects_cannabis\"><\/span>What the photoperiod is and why It affects cannabis<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The photoperiod <strong>is the ratio between the hours of light and darkness the plant receives each day<\/strong>. Cannabis doesn\u2019t just \u201csee\u201d how much light it gets; it also measures how long the night lasts: <strong>when darkness increases, it interprets that it\u2019s time to start flowering.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.frontiersin.org\/journals\/plant-science\/articles\/10.3389\/fpls.2021.694153\/full\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">sunlight exposure time<\/a> determines leaf growth and orientation.<\/strong> Additionally, <strong>it influences other important processes such as germination and flowering.<\/strong> This photoperiod concept, which we normally associate with plants, also affects animals to some extent, influencing reproduction and breeding cycles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you grow outdoors, the photoperiod is set by nature; if you grow indoors, you control the photoperiod yourself using a timer.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1000\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/www.growbarato.net\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Diseno-sin-titulo-1-6.jpg\" alt=\"Outdoor cannabis cultivation with robust plants in full bloom, showing uniform growth and abundant buds under natural light\" class=\"wp-image-219179\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.gbthegreenbrand.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Diseno-sin-titulo-1-6.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/www.gbthegreenbrand.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Diseno-sin-titulo-1-6-300x135.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.gbthegreenbrand.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Diseno-sin-titulo-1-6-768x346.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Photoperiod_by_time_of_year\"><\/span>Photoperiod by time of year<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Outdoors, daylight hours change each month and determine the plant\u2019s phase. <strong>When days are long (spring and early summer), the plant grows; when days start to shorten (late summer), the plant naturally begins flowering.<\/strong> This explains why, for example, in Spain plants typically start flowering between August and September without any intervention.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<table style=\"width:100%; border-collapse: collapse;\">\r\n\r\n  <!-- TITLE -->\r\n  <thead>\r\n    <tr>\r\n      <th colspan=\"4\" style=\"background-color:#00A58C; color:white; font-weight:bold; font-size:18px; padding:10px; text-align:center;\">\r\n        Approximate Natural Photoperiod (Spain)\r\n      <\/th>\r\n    <\/tr>\r\n\r\n    <tr style=\"background-color:#1E252C; color:white; font-weight:bold;\">\r\n      <th style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd;\">Month<\/th>\r\n      <th style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd;\">Hours of Light<\/th>\r\n      <th style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd;\">Typical Phase<\/th>\r\n      <th style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd;\">Recommendation<\/th>\r\n    <\/tr>\r\n  <\/thead>\r\n\r\n  <tbody>\r\n\r\n    <tr>\r\n      <th style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd; background-color:#00A58C; color:white; font-weight:bold;\">\r\n        May\r\n      <\/th>\r\n      <td style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd;\">14\u201315 h<\/td>\r\n      <td style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd;\">Growth<\/td>\r\n      <td style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd;\">Transplants and training<\/td>\r\n    <\/tr>\r\n\r\n    <tr>\r\n      <th style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd; background-color:#00A58C; color:white; font-weight:bold;\">\r\n        June\r\n      <\/th>\r\n      <td style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd;\">15 h<\/td>\r\n      <td style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd;\">Maximum growth<\/td>\r\n      <td style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd;\">Peak development<\/td>\r\n    <\/tr>\r\n\r\n    <tr>\r\n      <th style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd; background-color:#00A58C; color:white; font-weight:bold;\">\r\n        August\r\n      <\/th>\r\n      <td style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd;\">13 h<\/td>\r\n      <td style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd;\">Start of flowering<\/td>\r\n      <td style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd;\">Monitor stretch<\/td>\r\n    <\/tr>\r\n\r\n    <tr>\r\n      <th style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd; background-color:#00A58C; color:white; font-weight:bold;\">\r\n        October\r\n      <\/th>\r\n      <td style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd;\">&lt;12 h<\/td>\r\n      <td style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd;\">Advanced flowering<\/td>\r\n      <td style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd;\">Control humidity<\/td>\r\n    <\/tr>\r\n\r\n  <\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Indoor_photoperiod_The_easiest_approach_for_beginners\"><\/span>Indoor photoperiod: The easiest approach for beginners<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Growing indoors offers a huge advantage: <strong>you decide how many hours of light the plant receives<\/strong>. This allows you to control its size, pace, and flowering time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Most_common_cycles\"><\/span>Most common cycles<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>18\/6 (18 h light \/ 6 h dark)<\/strong>: standard for vegetative growth.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>20\/4:<\/strong> faster growth, but higher electricity consumption.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>12\/12<\/strong>: cycle that triggers flowering in photoperiod-dependent plants.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Recommended_photoperiod_by_growth_stage\"><\/span>Recommended photoperiod by growth stage<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<table style=\"width:100%; border-collapse: collapse;\">\r\n\r\n  <!-- TITLE -->\r\n  <thead>\r\n    <tr>\r\n      <th colspan=\"3\" style=\"background-color:#00A58C; color:white; font-weight:bold; font-size:18px; padding:10px; text-align:center;\">\r\n        Photoperiod by Stage and Objective\r\n      <\/th>\r\n    <\/tr>\r\n\r\n    <tr style=\"background-color:#1E252C; color:white; font-weight:bold;\">\r\n      <th style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd;\">Stage<\/th>\r\n      <th style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd;\">Photoperiod<\/th>\r\n      <th style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd;\">Goal<\/th>\r\n    <\/tr>\r\n  <\/thead>\r\n\r\n  <tbody>\r\n\r\n    <tr>\r\n      <th style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd; background-color:#00A58C; color:white; font-weight:bold;\">\r\n        Vegetative growth\r\n      <\/th>\r\n      <td style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd;\">18\/6<\/td>\r\n      <td style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd;\">Develop branches and structure<\/td>\r\n    <\/tr>\r\n\r\n    <tr>\r\n      <th style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd; background-color:#00A58C; color:white; font-weight:bold;\">\r\n        Intense growth\r\n      <\/th>\r\n      <td style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd;\">20\/4<\/td>\r\n      <td style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd;\">Increase vigor (higher consumption)<\/td>\r\n    <\/tr>\r\n\r\n    <tr>\r\n      <th style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd; background-color:#00A58C; color:white; font-weight:bold;\">\r\n        Flowering\r\n      <\/th>\r\n      <td style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd;\">12\/12<\/td>\r\n      <td style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd;\">Activate buds and resin production<\/td>\r\n    <\/tr>\r\n\r\n  <\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n<p>Think of these photoperiod cycles as \u201cinstructions\u201d you give to the plant, almost like switching an electronic device between growth mode and flowering mode.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Common_mistakes\"><\/span>Common mistakes <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>When a plant receives the correct photoperiod, it grows without issues. When it doesn\u2019t, it can become stressed, flower late, or even show signs of hermaphroditism. The most common mistakes are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Light leaks during 12\/12:<\/strong> Plants think it\u2019s \u201cdaytime\u201d and get confused. Cover gaps, screens, or LEDs in the grow tent.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Switching to 12\/12 too early:<\/strong> The plant hasn\u2019t developed enough structure and will produce small buds.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Interrupting the night \u201cfor just a minute\u201d<\/strong>: During flowering, every minute of unwanted light counts. Darkness must be complete.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<p>[ppgbo products=&#8221;8270,5848,8150&#8243; language=&#8221;en&#8221;]<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Photoperiod_according_to_plant_type\"><\/span>Photoperiod according to plant type<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Not all plants react the same way to the photoperiod. <strong>Knowing the plant\u2019s genetics helps you apply the correct light cycle.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Photoperiod-dependent_plants_Feminized\"><\/span>Photoperiod-dependent plants (Feminized)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>These plants rely on the photoperiod. They need a change in light cycles to flower<\/strong>. They grow under 18\/6 and only flower when switched to 12\/12. This allows precise control over height, structure, and cultivation duration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Autoflowering_plants\"><\/span>Autoflowering plants<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>They do not depend on the photoperiod. Perfect for beginners because they are fast and easy to grow<\/strong>. They flower based on age but achieve the best results with 18\/6 or 20\/4 throughout the cycle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<table style=\"width:100%; border-collapse: collapse;\">\r\n\r\n  <!-- TITLE -->\r\n  <thead>\r\n    <tr>\r\n      <th colspan=\"4\" style=\"background-color:#00A58C; color:white; font-weight:bold; font-size:18px; padding:10px; text-align:center;\">\r\n        Photoperiod Comparison by Genetics\r\n      <\/th>\r\n    <\/tr>\r\n\r\n    <tr style=\"background-color:#1E252C; color:white; font-weight:bold;\">\r\n      <th style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd;\">Genetics<\/th>\r\n      <th style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd;\">Photoperiod-Dependent?<\/th>\r\n      <th style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd;\">Recommended Photoperiod<\/th>\r\n      <th style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd;\">Ideal For\u2026<\/th>\r\n    <\/tr>\r\n  <\/thead>\r\n\r\n  <tbody>\r\n\r\n    <tr>\r\n      <th style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd; background-color:#00A58C; color:white; font-weight:bold;\">\r\n        Photoperiod-Dependent\r\n      <\/th>\r\n      <td style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd;\">Yes<\/td>\r\n      <td style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd;\">18\/6 \u2192 12\/12<\/td>\r\n      <td style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd;\">Full control over cultivation<\/td>\r\n    <\/tr>\r\n\r\n    <tr>\r\n      <th style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd; background-color:#00A58C; color:white; font-weight:bold;\">\r\n        Autoflowering\r\n      <\/th>\r\n      <td style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd;\">No<\/td>\r\n      <td style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd;\">18\/6 or 20\/4<\/td>\r\n      <td style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd;\">Fast and easy cultivation<\/td>\r\n    <\/tr>\r\n\r\n    <tr>\r\n      <th style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd; background-color:#00A58C; color:white; font-weight:bold;\">\r\n        Mother Plants\r\n      <\/th>\r\n      <td style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd;\">Yes<\/td>\r\n      <td style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd;\">Constant 18\/6<\/td>\r\n      <td style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd;\">Take cuttings year-round<\/td>\r\n    <\/tr>\r\n\r\n  <\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step-by-step_guide_to_adjusting_the_photoperiod\"><\/span>Step-by-step guide to adjusting the photoperiod<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Step 1:<\/strong> <strong>Set Up a Timer<\/strong>: Your best ally. A digital timer is more precise, but an analog timer works if you are starting out. Basic tip: <strong>once set, don\u2019t change the hours daily.<\/strong> Consistency is key.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Step 2: Maintain Total Darkness During 12\/12<\/strong>: During flowering, plants need uninterrupted nights. Avoid screens, light leaks, or opening the grow tent during the dark phase. This is a main cause of stress for beginners.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Step 3:<\/strong> <strong>When to Switch to 12\/12:<\/strong> An easy guideline: switch to 12\/12 <strong>when the plant has a strong structure<\/strong>. In most small grow tents, this is around <strong>10\u201316 inches (25\u201340 cm)<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Photoperiod_yield_and_energy_savings\"><\/span>Photoperiod, yield, and energy savings<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Properly adjusting the photoperiod not only <a href=\"https:\/\/www.frontiersin.org\/journals\/plant-science\/articles\/10.3389\/fpls.2021.646020\/full\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">improves plant health<\/a> but also maximizes yield and reduces electricity consumption, especially for indoor growers using <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gbthegreenbrand.com\/820-foco-led-cultivo-indoor-300w\">LED lighting<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<table style=\"width:100%; border-collapse: collapse;\">\r\n\r\n  <!-- TITLE -->\r\n  <thead>\r\n    <tr>\r\n      <th colspan=\"4\" style=\"background-color:#00A58C; color:white; font-weight:bold; font-size:18px; padding:10px; text-align:center;\">\r\n        Choose a Photoperiod Based on Your Goal\r\n      <\/th>\r\n    <\/tr>\r\n\r\n    <tr style=\"background-color:#1E252C; color:white; font-weight:bold;\">\r\n      <th style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd;\">Goal<\/th>\r\n      <th style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd;\">Photoperiod<\/th>\r\n      <th style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd;\">Advantage<\/th>\r\n      <th style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd;\">Recommended For<\/th>\r\n    <\/tr>\r\n  <\/thead>\r\n\r\n  <tbody>\r\n\r\n    <tr>\r\n      <th style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd; background-color:#00A58C; color:white; font-weight:bold;\">\r\n        Energy Saving\r\n      <\/th>\r\n      <td style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd;\">18\/6<\/td>\r\n      <td style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd;\">Low energy consumption<\/td>\r\n      <td style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd;\">Beginners<\/td>\r\n    <\/tr>\r\n\r\n    <tr>\r\n      <th style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd; background-color:#00A58C; color:white; font-weight:bold;\">\r\n        Maximum Growth\r\n      <\/th>\r\n      <td style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd;\">20\/4<\/td>\r\n      <td style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd;\">Vigorous plants<\/td>\r\n      <td style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd;\">Advanced growers<\/td>\r\n    <\/tr>\r\n\r\n    <tr>\r\n      <th style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd; background-color:#00A58C; color:white; font-weight:bold;\">\r\n        Height Control\r\n      <\/th>\r\n      <td style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd;\">12\/12 from seed<\/td>\r\n      <td style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd;\">Compact plants<\/td>\r\n      <td style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd;\">Small spaces<\/td>\r\n    <\/tr>\r\n\r\n    <tr>\r\n      <th style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd; background-color:#00A58C; color:white; font-weight:bold;\">\r\n        Easy Cultivation\r\n      <\/th>\r\n      <td style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd;\">18\/6 \u2192 12\/12<\/td>\r\n      <td style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd;\">Reliable results<\/td>\r\n      <td style=\"padding:8px; border:1px solid #ddd;\">All skill levels<\/td>\r\n    <\/tr>\r\n\r\n  <\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Maintaining a stable photoperiod produces denser and more resinous flowers.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>More light hours don\u2019t always mean higher yields; there is a point where extra energy doesn\u2019t pay off.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>18\/6 is the best balance between yield and efficiency for most growers.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1000\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/www.growbarato.net\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Diseno-sin-titulo-2-2.jpg\" alt=\"Indoor cannabis plant illuminated with purple spectrum LED lights, highlighting flowering buds and controlled grow environment (photoperiod)\" class=\"wp-image-219185\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.gbthegreenbrand.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Diseno-sin-titulo-2-2.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/www.gbthegreenbrand.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Diseno-sin-titulo-2-2-300x135.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.gbthegreenbrand.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Diseno-sin-titulo-2-2-768x346.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<style>\r\n  \/* Preserving original accordion styles *\/\r\n  .accordion-container {\r\n    width: 100%;\r\n    margin: 0 0 20px;\r\n    clear: both;\r\n  }\r\n  h3.accordion-titulo {\r\n    margin-bottom: 0;\r\n    margin-top: 2%;\r\n  }\r\n  .accordion-titulo {\r\n    position: relative;\r\n    display: block;\r\n    padding: 10px 20px;\r\n    font-size: 18px;\r\n    font-weight: 300;\r\n    border: 1px solid #000;\r\n    color: #000;\r\n    text-decoration: none;\r\n    cursor: pointer;\r\n  }\r\n  .accordion-titulo.open {\r\n    color: #00ab8e;\r\n    border-color: #00ab8e;\r\n  }\r\n  .accordion-titulo:hover {\r\n    color: #00ab8e;\r\n    border-color: #00ab8e;\r\n  }\r\n  .accordion-titulo span.toggle-icon:before {\r\n    content:\"+\";\r\n  }\r\n  .accordion-titulo.open span.toggle-icon:before {\r\n    content:\"-\";\r\n  }\r\n  .accordion-titulo span.toggle-icon {\r\n    position: absolute;\r\n    top: 6px;\r\n    right: 20px;\r\n    font-size: 26px;\r\n    font-weight: bold;\r\n  }\r\n  .accordion-content {\r\n    display: none;\r\n    padding: 20px;\r\n    overflow: auto;\r\n    font-family: 'Roboto', sans-serif;\r\n    font-size: 16px;\r\n  }\r\n  @media (max-width: 767px) {\r\n    h3.accordion-titulo {\r\n      padding-right: 12%;\r\n    }\r\n  }\r\n<\/style>\r\n\r\n<script>\r\n  jQuery(document).ready(function($) {\r\n    $(\".accordion-titulo\").click(function(){\r\n      var contenido = $(this).next(\".accordion-content\");\r\n      if (contenido.css(\"display\") === \"none\") { \/\/ open\r\n        contenido.slideDown(250);\r\n        $(this).addClass(\"open\");\r\n      } else { \/\/ close\r\n        contenido.slideUp(250);\r\n        $(this).removeClass(\"open\");\r\n      }\r\n    });\r\n  });\r\n<\/script>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"accordion-container\" itemscope itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/FAQPage\" style=\"width: 80%; max-width: 100%\">\r\n  <h2 style=\"width: 100% !important;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions_FAQ_About_Cannabis_Photoperiod\"><\/span>Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Cannabis Photoperiod<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\r\n\r\n  <!-- FAQ 1 -->\r\n  <div itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\">\r\n    <h3 itemprop=\"name\" class=\"accordion-titulo\" style=\"width: 100% !important;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_the_photoperiod_in_cannabis_and_why_is_it_important\"><\/span>\r\n      What is the photoperiod in cannabis and why is it important?\r\n      <span class=\"toggle-icon\"><\/span>\r\n    <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\r\n    <div class=\"accordion-content\" itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\">\r\n      <div itemprop=\"text\">\r\n        It is the <b>ratio of light to dark hours<\/b> the plant receives. It determines <b>when the plant grows and when it flowers<\/b>, making it a key factor in controlling the cultivation cycle.\r\n      <\/div>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n  <\/div>\r\n\r\n  <!-- FAQ 2 -->\r\n  <div itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\">\r\n    <h3 itemprop=\"name\" class=\"accordion-titulo\" style=\"width: 100% !important;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_many_hours_of_light_does_marijuana_need_to_grow\"><\/span>\r\n      How many hours of light does marijuana need to grow?\r\n      <span class=\"toggle-icon\"><\/span>\r\n    <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\r\n    <div class=\"accordion-content\" itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\">\r\n      <div itemprop=\"text\">\r\n        Typically, <b>18 hours of light and 6 hours of darkness<\/b> are used during the vegetative stage. This cycle promotes <b>vigorous vegetative growth<\/b> at a steady pace.\r\n      <\/div>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n  <\/div>\r\n\r\n  <!-- FAQ 3 -->\r\n  <div itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\">\r\n    <h3 itemprop=\"name\" class=\"accordion-titulo\" style=\"width: 100% !important;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_the_best_photoperiod_for_autoflowering_plants\"><\/span>\r\n      What is the best photoperiod for autoflowering plants?\r\n      <span class=\"toggle-icon\"><\/span>\r\n    <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\r\n    <div class=\"accordion-content\" itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\">\r\n      <div itemprop=\"text\">\r\n        <b>Autoflowering plants<\/b> do not rely on the photoperiod to flower, but they <b>perform better under 18\/6 or 20\/4<\/b> throughout the cycle. This maximizes available light without stress.\r\n      <\/div>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n  <\/div>\r\n\r\n  <!-- FAQ 4 -->\r\n  <div itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\">\r\n    <h3 itemprop=\"name\" class=\"accordion-titulo\" style=\"width: 100% !important;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_happens_if_I_interrupt_darkness_during_1212\"><\/span>\r\n      What happens if I interrupt darkness during 12\/12?\r\n      <span class=\"toggle-icon\"><\/span>\r\n    <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\r\n    <div class=\"accordion-content\" itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\">\r\n      <div itemprop=\"text\">\r\n        It can cause <b>stress<\/b>, <b>delay flowering<\/b>, or even lead to <b>hermaphroditism<\/b>. Maintaining <b>total, uninterrupted darkness<\/b> is crucial for successful cultivation.\r\n      <\/div>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n  <\/div>\r\n\r\n  <!-- FAQ 5 -->\r\n  <div itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\">\r\n    <h3 itemprop=\"name\" class=\"accordion-titulo\" style=\"width: 100% !important;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"When_does_outdoor_flowering_start_according_to_the_photoperiod\"><\/span>\r\n      When does outdoor flowering start according to the photoperiod?\r\n      <span class=\"toggle-icon\"><\/span>\r\n    <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\r\n    <div class=\"accordion-content\" itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\">\r\n      <div itemprop=\"text\">\r\n        Outdoor flowering usually begins when <b>daily light hours drop from 14 to 13<\/b>, typically between <b>August and September in Spain<\/b>.\r\n      <\/div>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n  <\/div>\r\n\r\n  <!-- FAQ 6 -->\r\n  <div itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\">\r\n    <h3 itemprop=\"name\" class=\"accordion-titulo\" style=\"width: 100% !important;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_I_use_the_same_photoperiod_for_all_plants_in_the_same_grow_tent\"><\/span>\r\n      Can I use the same photoperiod for all plants in the same grow tent?\r\n      <span class=\"toggle-icon\"><\/span>\r\n    <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\r\n    <div class=\"accordion-content\" itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\">\r\n      <div itemprop=\"text\">\r\n        Yes, as long as they are all the <b>same type<\/b> (autoflowering or photoperiod-dependent). If you mix both, it\u2019s best to <b>separate zones<\/b> or use independent lighting setups.\r\n      <\/div>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n  <\/div>\r\n\r\n<\/div>\n<div style='text-align:center' class='yasr-auto-insert-visitor'><\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The photoperiod is one of the most important concepts for anyone growing cannabis, whether indoors or outdoors. Understanding how light and dark hours work allows you to know when the plant is in a growth phase, when it starts to flower, and how to adjust its development easily. In this guide, you&#8217;ll learn what the\u2026 <span class=\"leermas\" onclick=\"window.location.href='https:\/\/www.gbthegreenbrand.com\/blog\/photoperiod-in-cannabis-an-easy-guide-to-understanding-light-hours\/'\">Continue reading<\/span ><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":18,"featured_media":219205,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"wprm-recipe-roundup-name":"","wprm-recipe-roundup-description":"","yasr_overall_rating":0,"yasr_post_is_review":"","yasr_auto_insert_disabled":"","yasr_review_type":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[254,253],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-220447","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-marijuana-crops","category-tips-on-how-to-grow"],"yasr_visitor_votes":{"stars_attributes":{"read_only":false,"span_bottom":false},"number_of_votes":6,"sum_votes":27},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gbthegreenbrand.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/220447","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gbthegreenbrand.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gbthegreenbrand.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gbthegreenbrand.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/18"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gbthegreenbrand.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=220447"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/www.gbthegreenbrand.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/220447\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":220451,"href":"https:\/\/www.gbthegreenbrand.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/220447\/revisions\/220451"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gbthegreenbrand.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/219205"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gbthegreenbrand.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=220447"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gbthegreenbrand.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=220447"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gbthegreenbrand.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=220447"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}