Farmers, horticulturalists, and growers worldwide have long been on a mission to maximize crop yields, and cannabis producers are no exception. Since the legalization of cannabis in the United States, growers have been hard at work developing new methods for increasing both yield and quality. This article will offer some expert tips derived from their discoveries.
1. Purchase High-Quality Seeds
Arguably the most important aspect of growing good cannabis is starting with the best seeds. Remember that seeds contain all of a plant’s genetic instructions. If they’re not of high quality, the plants won’t be, either. That’s why growers should always buy from a reputable online seed bank like Weed Seeds USA.
2. Pick the Best Strains
No one strain of cannabis always produces the highest yields. Growers need to consider their unique circumstances when choosing strains if they want to pull down massive crops at the end of the season. Some strains are better for cooler climates, for example, while others thrive in hot, humid areas. Indica strains and hybrids tend to produce larger yields than sativas, but each strain is different. Do some research before deciding which ones to grow.
3. Get the Basics Right
For novice, or even intermediate-level growers, the best place to start increasing yields isn’t with advanced pruning techniques or expensive nutrient blends. The most important thing is to get the basics right. That means growers should:
- Make sure the plants get sufficient water.
Provide essential nutrients.
Keep airflow between the branches.
Remember to stick to the right light schedule for indoor grows.
Keep pests away when growing in outdoor gardens.
4. Choose the Right Medium
In most places, growing in native soil is not the best way to maximize yields. While outdoor growers typically amend the soil to improve its texture, nutrient composition, and drainage, indoor growers have far more options. Many indoor growers use soilless media or hydroponic systems, choosing to eschew soil altogether to great effect.
5. Don’t Go Overboard When Planting Seeds
For growers who don’t have to worry about strict state and local laws regarding their cannabis cultivation, the temptation to grow as many plants as they can fit in a garden, greenhouse, or grow room can be very real. However, that’s not the best approach when it comes to increasing yields. Instead of packing too many plants into a small space, which has a negative impact on airflow and can make it hard to offer the entire crop sufficient care, growers are better off giving better care and leaving more space for fewer plants.
6. Try Out Some Training Techniques
Cannabis growers love experimenting with different pruning techniques. Some are relatively low-risk, while others must be performed by experienced growers to avoid causing too much damage to the plants. High-stress training techniques like fimming, topping, supercropping, and lollipopping can dramatically increase yields, but they can also have the opposite effect if performed incorrectly.
Give Cannabis Growing a Try
There’s no way to maximize yields without taking the plunge and starting a home grow. Most growers won’t be able to get maximum yields from their favorite strains the first year, and it can take a few seasons for them to perfect their techniques. However, there’s no way to become an expert without starting as a beginner, and the best time to plant that first crop is this year.
