Cannabis Growing 101: A Beginner’s Guide to Cultivating Your Own Plants

Cannabis Growing 101: A Beginner’s Guide to Cultivating Your Own Plants

Growing cannabis can be a rewarding experience, whether for personal use or commercial cultivation. However, achieving a successful harvest requires knowledge, patience, and the right environment. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the basics of growing cannabis, from selecting seeds to harvesting your plants.

1. Choosing the Right Seeds

The first step in growing cannabis is selecting the right seeds. There are three primary types:

  • Indica: Shorter, bushier plants with relaxing effects.

  • Sativa: Taller plants with uplifting, energetic effects.

  • Hybrid: A mix of indica and sativa traits, offering a balanced experience.

You can also choose between regular, feminized, and autoflowering seeds:

  • Feminized seeds ensure that all plants will produce buds.

  • Autoflowering seeds bloom without needing specific light cycles, making them easier for beginners.

  • Photoperiod seeds require a change in light schedule (typically from 18/6 to 12/12 hours of light/dark) to trigger flowering, offering more control over the growth cycle but requiring more attention.

At Kota Botanics™, we carry the premium cannabis seed collection from California - Atlas Seed, known for high-quality genetics and exceptional performance.

Atlas Autoflowering Cannabis Seed | Face Fat

2. Setting Up Your Grow Space

Your grow space can be indoors or outdoors, depending on climate and personal preference.

  • Indoor growing: Requires grow tents, proper lighting (LED, HID, or fluorescent), ventilation, and temperature control.

  • Outdoor growing: Relies on natural sunlight, but requires attention to seasonal changes, pests, and local laws.

3. Providing the Right Growing Conditions

  • Light: Cannabis plants need 18-24 hours of light in the vegetative stage and 12 hours during the flowering stage.

  • Temperature & Humidity: Ideal temperatures range between 70-85°F (21-29°C) during the vegetative stage and 65-80°F (18-26°C) during flowering. Humidity should be between 40-70%, depending on the stage of growth.

  • Airflow & Ventilation: Ensure proper airflow with fans and ventilation systems to prevent mold and pests.

4. Watering & Nutrients

Cannabis plants need consistent watering but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. The pH level of water should be between 6.0 and 7.0. Nutrients required for healthy growth include:

  • Nitrogen (N) – Essential during the vegetative stage.

  • Phosphorus (P) – Important for root development and flowering.

  • Potassium (K) – Supports overall plant health and bud formation.

5. Growth Stages & Care

  • Germination (1-7 days): Seeds sprout and develop roots.

  • Seedling Stage (2-3 weeks): Small leaves develop; plants need gentle care.

  • Vegetative Stage (3-8 weeks): Plants grow rapidly, requiring more light and nutrients.

  • Flowering Stage (6-12 weeks): Buds begin to form, requiring a switch to a 12/12 light cycle.

  • Harvesting: When trichomes turn cloudy or amber, it’s time to harvest.

6. Harvesting & Curing

Once the buds are ready, carefully cut and dry them in a controlled environment (60-70°F with 50-60% humidity). After drying, cure the buds in airtight jars for 2-4 weeks to enhance flavor and potency.

Final Tips

  • Monitor plants daily for pests, nutrient deficiencies, and mold.

  • Keep a grow journal to track progress and make improvements.

  • Start small and expand as you gain experience.

Growing cannabis requires effort, but with the right approach, you can cultivate high-quality plants for personal use or business. Happy growing!

Back to blog