Can I grow Cannabis in the Vegetative Stage?

Growing cannabis requires patience, attention, and understanding of the cannabis life cycle. Cannabis has two growth phases: vegetative and flowering, which occur after the seedling stage.

The vegetative stage is the most essential time in which the plant develops stems, leaves, and roots. It is the first foundation of plant growth, and the second one is the flowering period when it’s time to reap what you sow. If these two go well, you get maximum yield and potent flavorful buds.

Today, we are providing a comprehensive view of growing cannabis in the vegetative stage. So, let us see how to support this stage for a better harvest.

What is the Vegetative Phase?

The vegetative stage, also known as the growth stage, is a critical life period of a plant. It is the second stage after germination and before flowering where the plant focuses all its energy on building a strong foundation for future bud production. What the cannabis plant does in this phase is, it starts putting efforts into:

• Developing robust root
• Strengthening Stem and Branches
• Processing Foliage Growth

After germination, it begins to emerge. They are fragile and have soft single stems with two cotyledons which will form into the first two leaves. With time, it will start maturing and produce more leaves via photosynthesis. 

Bingo! Your little marijuana here enters into the vegetative phase.

The cannabis vegetative stage typically lasts anywhere from 3 to 16 weeks, depending on the strain of cannabis and the growing conditions. Growers can influence the length of this stage by manipulating the light cycle. 

As the days become shorter, cannabis plants naturally bloom. By providing the plants with long days (typically 18 hours of light and 6 hours of darkness), growers can keep them in the vegetative stage for an extended period. This allows them to grow larger plants with more bud sites, which can lead to higher yields. 

Here, indica plants will grow shorter and bushier, while sativa plants will be taller and less dense. For photoperiod varieties, as the light cycle shortens, the vegetative period ends.

• Outdoor cannabis plants– It is a natural process where the plant’s phase transformation depends on seasons.
• Indoor cannabis plants- Indoor photoperiod plants are forced to flower by shortening the lighting schedule, for this, a 12/12 light cycle is opted for.

Why is autoflower an exception? The exception to this rule is autoflowering strains which complete their life cycle in 3 months, as the flowering initiation depends on the plant’s age rather than the light cycle.

Also Read: Where to grow Cannabis- Indoor or Outdoor?

Cannabis Plant: Stages of Growth

Cannabis, like many plants, goes through distinct stages during its lifecycle. Understanding these stages is crucial for cultivating healthy marijuana for personal or commercial production. Here are the cannabis growth stages:

1. Germination (The Seedling )

Life begins with a tiny seed encapsulated in a hard brown shell with the potential for a magnificent plant. Germination is the process where the seed breaks dormancy and begins to sprout. Upon cracking open, the seed reveals a delicate taproot and the first leaves of its seedling. This stage typically takes 3-10 days.

2. Seedling Stage (Taking Root)

The new sprouted seedling is fragile and requires careful attention. It focuses on developing its root system, supporting itself in the growing medium, and water and nutrient uptake. The first true leaves, with their characteristic pointed shape, emerge. This stage generally lasts 2-3 weeks.

3. Vegetative Stage ( The Structure)

Once the seedling has established a healthy root system and a few sets of true leaves, it enters the vegetative stage. It is the growth spurt many growers eagerly anticipate. The plant channels its energy into growing fit stems, roots, and foliage growth. By manipulating the light cycle, growers can influence the duration of this stage. It allows them to cultivate larger plants with more potential bud sites, maximizing yields. The vegetative stage can last anywhere from 3 to 16 weeks, depending on the strain and growing conditions.

4. Pre-Flowering Stage (The Transition)

As the days become shorter, the cannabis plant starts to prepare for reproduction. This pre-flowering stage is a brief transition period where subtle changes occur. New growth may slow down, and some strains may show signs of pre-flowers, which are tiny bud-like structures at the nodes. This stage usually lasts 1-2 weeks.

5. Flowering Stage (The Outcome)

The flowering stage is what you were waiting for. With shorter days, the plant focuses its energy on producing flowers, also known as buds. These flowers contain the cannabinoids and terpenes that give cannabis its unique properties. Plant starts producing:

• Flowers (Buds): These are the prized parts of the cannabis plant, containing the valuable cannabinoids and terpenes. The flowers will grow denser and more resinous as they mature.
• Pistils (Female Plants Only): Flowers produce these hair-like structures. They change from white to brown or orange as the flowers mature, indicating harvest time.

The flowering stage typically lasts 6-12 weeks.

6. Harvest (Reaping the Rewards)

Once the flowers have reached their peak potency and the desired cannabinoid profile, it’s harvest time! It involves carefully trimming the mature flowers from the plant. The harvested buds then undergo a drying and curing to optimize their flavor, aroma, and potency.

Also Refer To: Harvesting and Processing of Cannabis Seeds

Importance of the Growing Cannabis in the Vegetative Stage

The vegetative stage plays a vital role in a plant’s life cycle- if it gets the right conditions, it develops strong roots, stems, and branches for future success. Why it is important, let’s see-

1. Building a Robust Root System: During this stage, the cannabis plant prioritizes developing a sturdy and extensive root system. These roots act as the plant’s lifeline. A healthy root system allows the plant to efficiently take up the essential elements for vigorous growth and future flower production.

2. Promoting Strong Stem and Branch Development: The vegetative stage is when the main stem thickens and branches begin to develop. This framework provides the support needed for the heavy flowers produced during the flowering stage. A strong structure ensures the plant can handle the weight of its bounty without branches breaking or stem buckling.

3. Maximizing Photosynthesis Potential: The large fan leaves that unfurl during the vegetative stage are the plant’s solar panels. They capture sunlight and convert it into energy through photosynthesis, which fuels the plant’s growth. By maximizing leaf production- the plant increases its energy-generating capacity, leading to the more robust overall growth and potentially higher yields later.

4. Shaping the Plant for Optimal Growth: The vegetative stage lets growers influence the plant’s structure using techniques like topping and trimming. These techniques promote bushier growth, better light penetration, and increased bud production potential.

5. Setting the Stage for Successful Flowering: A healthy vegetative stage lays the foundation for a successful flowering stage. With a strong root system, robust structure, and ample energy reserves, the plant begins producing potent and plentiful flowers.

Pros and Cons of 18/6 and 24/0 Light Schedule of Indoor Cannabis Grow:

Many cannabis growers follow a 24-0 light schedule where they keep lights on for 24 hours while others follow the 18/6 rule. So, what light schedule is best for the cannabis vegetative stage? It depends on what light schedule the grower follows and what strain he chooses. Many marijuana strains perform well in the 24-0 light schedule and some in the 18-6 schedule- it depends.

1. Pros of 24/0 hour light schedule-

• Best for colder areas- It is best for places where the temperature drops below 20 Degree Celsius as it keeps the plant warm throughout the day.
• Increased Potential Growth- Sometimes, a 24-hour light schedule may lead to faster growth. With more light exposure, plants can photosynthesize for longer, resulting in more growth.

2. Cons of 24/0 light schedule-

• Diminished Plant Health- Despite the potential for faster growth, a 24-hour light cycle can be stressful for plants. They don’t undergo the natural rest period of darkness, necessary for various physiological processes.
• Higher Energy Costs: Leaving lights on constantly translates to a significant increase in electricity consumption. It can be a major drawback, especially for large-scale operations.

3. Pros of 18/6 Light Schedule-

• Mimics Natural Light- By mimicking the natural day/night cycle, an 18/6 schedule helps reduce plant stress and promote immunity.
• Energy efficiency- It consumes 25% less energy than a 24-hour light cycle, resulting in cost savings and lower electricity bills, especially in large-scale production.
• Higher Yields- Some theories suggest that 24 24-hour cycle provides faster initial growth, but 6 hour-dark cycle helps in physiological changes like nutrient uptake, cell repair, and regeneration.
• Flexibility and Control- The 18/6 helps plants maintain a good balance between exposure to light and rest. It allows some control over the vegetative stage.

4. Cons of 18/6 Light Schedule-

• Slightly slow initial growth- Plants may grow slower than the 24-hour light schedule. However, plants will not stress in the long run.
• Not ideal for all plants- It depends on strain variety as some strains require warmer and more light for bud production.

Every grower is different and will have a different experience with the light schedule. So, it’s not about- fit strategy. For example, autoflowering cannabis necessitates 18-24 hours of light from seed to harvest. They are kind of in a vegetative phase their whole life.

Usually, an 18/6 hour cycle is preferable even for auto-flowering strains. It is easy and plants are healthy. Also, when you live in a hot climate, it increases temperature and electricity costs. However, even using a 20, 21, 22, or 24-hour light cycle is also good if you can manage it. If your plant is responding well and you are getting good results go for it. It’s totally up to you.

Also Read: Why Proper Lighting is Crucial for Cannabis?

Daily Care of Cannabis Plant in Vegetative Phase

The vegetative stage has simple demands like:

1. Provide water- When the soil feels dry when you touch it or see cracks, it’s time to water them. Water them from an inch above in the early mornings or late evenings every one or two days depending on the climate. You don’t need to water in hydro setups but always check the water pH (6.0-7.0) balance before adding. You can even opt for ceramic or clay pots rather than fabric bags that hold water for a long time.
2. Nutrients- Nitrogen is necessary during the vegetative stage; it requires NPK ( nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus) to promote leaf growth. Start with a lower dosage and raise the amount as needed. When there will be nutrient deficiency your marijuana will let you know. Nitrogen deficiency causes yellowing, wilting, and stunted growth, phosphorus deficiency causes purplish or dark green leaves with a bronze tinge downside, potassium causes yellow and browning via edges,  and magnesium causes rusty brown spots or yellow dots.
3. Light- Use high-quality LED grow lights for your cannabis garden. They are customized as per cannabis growth. You can go for a 24-hour schedule or an 18/6 schedule as per the strain and climatic conditions of your area. Usually, growers prefer the 18/6 rule as it mimics the day/night cycle, promoting healthy cannabis growth. Rotate your plants for even light distribution.
4. Proper temperature- Maintain 21- 27* Celsius temperature during daytime and around 15- 20* C at nighttime. Humidity should be around 50-60% during vegetative stage. Avoid low humidity. Buy a thermometer and hygrometer. If required, install fans, air conditioners, and humidifiers to create an ideal environment.
5. Air circulation- Provide good air circulation to prevent mold or mildew. Maintain cleanliness in your growing area. Keep moving your plants for proper airflow. If it is in a small space, you will only need an exhaust fan to maintain temperature and airflow. If they are outside, it is good to opt for a greenhouse and provide ventilation in the grow tent as it may be too windy for your cannabis to stay outside.
6. Training (optional): Techniques like topping and trimming can be employed during the vegetative stage to promote bushier growth, better light penetration, and potentially higher yields. Research these techniques and practice on a small branch before attempting them on your main stem.

Also Read: What is Cannabis Plant Training?

As a Beginner what should you look for while Growing Cannabis for the first time?

These are the most common issues in the vegetative stage in cannabis plants:

• Discoloration or staining on leaves. Older leaves turn brown over time and eventually die after completing the cycle. This yellow color is common during harvesting, otherwise your greens should be maintained.
• Are your leaves wilting or falling more than usual? Or they turn light green. If they are losing more or your plant is turning pale, check for water pH balance, nutrients, and aeration.
• If you smell something fishy or moldy, it’s time to investigate the source of the bad smell. But if your plants stink pungent towards the maturation, it’s normal- because of buds.
• Slow growth indicates a problem. There is some deficiency or water or light issue associated with it.
• Sometimes plants start to show sex during the vegetative stage. It can be challenging for new growers. Check for the underlying stress your plant is going through.
• Some growers say that their plants are blooming early. Sort this by a strict 18/6 light schedule or harvest these early flowers.
• Last but not least thing a newbie does is keep many plants in a small grow area. It leads to pest infestation and stunted growth. There should be enough space for plants to breathe CO2. Go for one plant per square foot rule.

Do not panic about small things. Every plant goes through a different journey but if you feel some issue, identify and fix it ASAP. Sometimes when you act smartly and early, you can bounce cannabis growth back.

How Long Should the Cannabis Vegetative Stage Last?

It depends on the growers. Usually, this stage lasts 3 weeks before flowering, but you can keep them in the vegetative stage for long periods. It is only possible with photoperiod plants because autoflowering strains have their period. You are the one to make your cannabis enter the next phase of- flowering.

How do I turn on flowering mode? Any seed you pick indica, hybrid, sativa, autoflowering, or fast version, you have 2-3 weeks of vegetative stage before your plants foster buds. Growers generally keep cannabis in the vegetative stage from a few weeks to months. Remember a golden rule, a taller, denser plant produces more buds, and vice versa. However, take proper care of light, water, and nutrients.

FAQs:

1. How to Know the Vegetative Stage is Over and the Plant is Ready to Flower?

The primary trigger for flowering is a shift in the light cycle. Outdoors, this happens naturally, as days shorten. Indoor growers switch the light cycle to 12/12 light schedule (light/dark). Look for subtle changes like slowed growth, shorter internodes, and the appearance of pre-flowers at branch nodes. Once in flower, female plants will develop white pistils that change color (brown/orange) as flowers mature.

2. What Does Cannabis Look Like in the Vegetative Stage?

Plants prioritize robust growth, with large fan leaves for photosynthesis. The main stem thickens, and branches develop, forming the framework for future flowers. Roots expand extensively to support vigorous growth.

3. Can Cannabis Go Back to “Veg” After Flowering?

With careful manipulation of the light cycle (back to 18/6), some cannabis plants can be “re-vegged.” However, this process can be stressful and may not always be successful.

4. Can You Trim Cannabis During the Vegetative Stage?

Yes, Absolutely! Trimming techniques like topping and trimming can be used during veg to promote bushier growth, better light penetration, and potentially higher yields.

5. What are the benefits of Different Light Schedules During the Vegetative Stage?

• 18/6 Light Cycle: Mimics natural day/night, promotes healthy growth and offers good control over veg stage duration.
• 24/7 Light Cycle: This may lead to faster initial growth, but may stress plants and be less energy-efficient.

6. When to Switch from the Vegetative to the Flowering Stage?

Once your plant reaches the desired size and after understanding the flowering time of your strain, you can initiate flowering by switching the light cycle.

7. What is the ideal Pot Size for Growing Cannabis?

For the vegetative stage, choose a pot size that allows for some root development without restricting growth too quickly. Generally, a 3-5 gallon pot is sufficient for seedling. You may need to transplant to a larger pot later in veg or before flowering.

Conclusion:

Vegetative Cannabis needs special care!

Marijuana cultivation begins with the vegetative stage, which assists in establishing a strong foundation for the plants. By providing optimal nutrients, water, temperature, light, and environmental conditions, growers can maximize cannabis bud production. 

We hope this guide helped- for further queries, write to us!