Can you grow cannabis via a Hydroponics system? Of course! It is one of the best methods to grow marijuana indoors and outdoors in Canada. But let us first know what is hydroponics and why you should opt for this method.
Cannabis, weed, pot, or marijuana, whatever you call it, is easy to grow in a hanging pot. In Canada, it is legal to grow cannabis at home, and you might have heard of cannabis growing hydroponically because it maximizes yields as compared to soil growing methods. We will discuss the details of growing cannabis with hydroponics and why Canadian growers should opt for indoor and outdoor hydroponic pots. Read more for further information!
What is Hydroponics?
As the name says, the hydroponics technique involves soil-less cannabis growing by suspending it in water instead. Plants grow faster and healthier with less water.
By setting up the hydroponic system, growers can grow marijuana in buckets or pots filled with inert medium coco or a water reservoir and provide nutrients directly to the plant with this medium.
Also Read: Nitrogen: The Silent Hero For Healthy Cannabis Plants
Why choose Growing Cannabis with Hydroponics over traditional soil methods?
So, soil or hydroponic- Which is better? Hydroponics has gained popularity among Canadian cannabis growers due to its improved efficiency and plant yields. It is superior to traditional cannabis farming because it uses less space, saves water, and produces high yields. Also, it is easy to grow anywhere and withstand harsh climates and dense urban spaces.
Protection from pests and contamination enhances plant survival and increases yields. It uses sunlight more than traditional growing methods that deplete the soil and contaminate the environment due to pesticides and insecticides. So, it is better to go for the hydroponics method.
Types of Hydroponic Systems for Cannabis Cultivation
There are two types of hydroponic systems: active and passive. Active systems include providing nutrition to cannabis via electric pumps and oxygenating water with air stones. While Passive systems are simple, affordable, and rely on capillary action.
Here are the active and passive hydroponics methods used for growing cannabis:
1. Passive Hydroponics
Passive hydroponics systems rely on natural processes to distribute water and nutrients to plants. These systems use perlite, or vermiculite, to absorb and store water and nutrients from a reservoir. The capillary action draws the water and nutrients up to the plant roots. These are apt for smaller-scale home-grow setups.
Types of Common Passive hydroponics used for cannabis growing:
- Wick Systems
- Dutch Bucket Systems
- Bubbly Systems
- Canopy Systems
2. Active Hydroponics
Active hydroponics systems actively control the nutrient delivery and water supply to plants. These systems utilize pumps and controllers to circulate water and nutrients, ensuring each plant receives the exact amount of water and nutrients it needs. They are used in large-scale commercial cannabis cultivation facilities.
Types of Active Hydroponic Systems:
- Nutrient Film Technique (NFT)
- Deep Water Culture (DWC)
- Ebb and Flow
- Aeroponics
- Wick Systems
While active hydroponics offers more precise control over water and nutrient delivery, passive hydroponics requires less energy input, making it more energy-efficient for small-scale grow operations.
However, active hydroponics systems can achieve higher plant yields and are more suitable for large-scale commercial cultivation due to their ability to maintain consistent water and nutrient levels.
| Feature | Active Hydroponic Systems | Passive Hydroponic Systems |
| Nutrient Delivery | Requires pumps or other mechanisms to circulate nutrient solution | Relies on gravity or capillary action to move nutrient solution |
| Complexity | Generally more complex to set up and maintain | Simpler to set up and maintain |
| Energy Consumption | Uses electricity to power pumps and other equipment | Requires no electricity |
| Cost | Typically more expensive due to additional equipment | Generally less expensive |
| Examples | Deep Water Culture (DWC), Nutrient Film Technique (NFT), Ebb and Flow | Kratky Method, Wick System, Water Culture (WC) |
| Suitability for Beginners | The growth rate may be slower than in active systems | Often easier for beginners to manage |
| Monitoring Requirements | More frequent monitoring of water levels, pH, and nutrient levels required | Typically require less frequent monitoring |
| Growth Rate | Plants often grow faster due to consistent nutrient delivery | May use slightly more water due to the potential for evaporation |
| Water Usage | Can be more water-efficient as systems often utilize closed loops | Requires pumps or other mechanisms to circulate the nutrient solution |
Also Refer: Indica, Sativa, and Hybrid: Which Cannabis Strain is Right for You?
Which Hydroponic System is best for Cannabis?
There are many hydroponic systems used for growing cannabis, but the best among Canadian growers are:
1. Deep Water Culture (DWC)
DWC is the simplest and most popular method. It is a type of Nutrient Film Technique NFT where plants stay in an aerated nutrient solution for rapid growth. It is easy to set up and requires minimal maintenance but frequent monitoring of nutrient levels and pH. It requires close attention, especially during winter when humidity levels might dip. This system is best for attentive beginners.
How to Use Deep Water Culture, DWC Kit:
- Deep Water Culture (DWC) is an easy-to-do method in hydroponic cannabis cultivation. You will need a bucket, lid, net pot, air pump, air stone, and growing medium (clay pebbles or Rockwool). Get a pH testing kit. To set up your DWC kit, clean and sterilize all components. Assemble the system by creating a net pot insert in the lid, filling it with rinsed medium, and installing the air pump and stone.
- Prepare a nutrient solution with the correct pH, fill the bucket just below the net pot, and plant cannabis seeds. Adjust pH and nutrient levels, and change the solution periodically. Remember to provide adequate lighting and maintain proper water temperature. Start with a single plant before planting more cannabis plants.
Pros:
- Simple to set up and maintain
- Rapid growth potential
- Efficient water and nutrient use
Cons:
- Prone to root diseases
- Requires frequent monitoring
- Not ideal for large plants
2. Nutrient Film Technique (NFT)
NFT is a hydroponic system where a thin film of nutrient solution perpetually flows through the roots of plants via channels. This efficient system is best for leafy greens as it utilizes water and nutrients effectively but requires a pump and can be susceptible to clogs. It is best for indoor cannabis growing in Canada for beginners and advanced growers due to low maintenance needs.
Nutrient Film Technique Setup
- To set up NFT, you require a reservoir containing nutrient solution, a nutrient pump, tubes to water, clay pebbles, net pots, and a return system, including tubing. Begin by placing the NFT channels at a slight incline (1-2%) to ensure the nutrient solution flows continuously. You can use a stand or frame to support the channels at the desired angle.
- Now, connect the water pump to the reservoir. Ensure the pump is powerful enough to maintain a consistent flow. Place the air stone in the reservoir and connect it to the pump. It helps oxygenate the nutrient solution for healthy root development.
Follow the steps:
- Rinse your clay pebbles with clean water to remove dust, then fill the net pots, leaving an inch of space at the top. Mix your hydroponic nutrients with water at a pH between 5.5 and 6.5.
- Now, gently place germinated seedlings into the net pots, ensuring the roots rest above the channel bottom. Control the pump by providing a continuous flow of nutrient solution in short cycles throughout the day and night.
- Regularly check the pH and nutrient levels. Change the nutrient solution every 1-2 weeks during the vegetative stage to prevent nutrient blockage.
Pros:
- Efficient use of water and nutrients
- Suitable for leafy greens
- Good oxygenation for roots
Cons:
- Requires a pump and can be prone to clogs
- More complex setup compared to DWC
- Not ideal for all plant varieties
3. Ebb and Flow (Flood and Drain)
It is another popular and easiest method called flood and drain. In this system, plant roots are periodically submerged in a nutrient solution before allowing it to drain back. Offering good root aeration and slight errors, Ebb and Flow systems are a beginner option.
Ebb and Flow Set-Up
- Begin with collecting materials, including a reservoir, grow tray with drain holes, flood tray, water pump, timer, overflow pipe, tubing, net pots, pH testing kit, and growing medium ( clay pebbles). Wash trays, net pots, and the reservoir thoroughly with soap and water.
- Place the grow tray on top of the flood tray, ensuring the drain holes are positioned directly above the flood tray. Connect the water pump to the reservoir and the grow tray using tubing following the manufacturer’s instructions. Ensure the pump is powerful enough to fill the grow tray efficiently.
Now attach the overflow pipe to the grow tray at the desired flood level. This pipe prevents the tray from overflowing and ensures proper drainage back to the reservoir. Program the timer to control the pump operation, defining flood cycles (filling the grow tray) and drain cycles (emptying the tray back to the reservoir).
Pros:
- Good balance of aeration and moisture control
- More forgiving than DWC
- Versatile and adaptable
Cons:
- It has a more complex setup than DWC
- Increased maintenance needs
- Potential for overwatering
4. Aeroponics
It is a bit more advanced than other hydroponic systems and has many benefits. The nutrient solution is sprayed directly on plant roots in a boxed environment. It provides exceptional oxygen access, promotes rapid growth, and works for various cannabis strains other than NFT. However, the complicated setup demands constant monitoring and precise attention. Due to its complexity, Aeroponics is best for advanced growers, even outdoors or indoors.
Aeroponics Set Up
- Gather all the materials like a grow chamber, an air pump, foggers/ misters, a reservoir, a water pump, a timer, a control system (optional), a pH testing kit, and net pots. Sterilize and start assembling by ensuring the chamber is lightproof and has adequate ventilation for proper air circulation. You can install reflective lining to maximize light efficiency and consider adding viewing windows for monitoring.
- Place the air pump outside the chamber and connect it to the foggers within the chamber. Connect the water pump to the reservoir and the misters following the instructions. Ensure the pump is powerful enough to maintain consistency. If using a control system, program it to manage the pump operation and ensure precise misting cycles according to your chosen schedule. Timers control the pump, but control systems offer more precise control over misting duration and frequency.
Pros:
- Reduced risk of root diseases
- Suitable for diverse cannabis strains
Cons:
- The most complex and demanding setup
- Highly susceptible to system failures
5. Wick System
The simplest and most beginner-friendly option, wick systems rely on passive capillary action. Fill a reservoir below a planter with a growing medium that utilizes wicks to draw nutrient solution up to the plant roots as needed. It is ideal for small-scale grows or beginners in Canada, wick systems are not recommended for large plants or high-yield harvests.
Simple Wick System Set Up at Home
- Materials required: reservoir, growing container, wick material, growing medium, nutrient solution, and pH testing kit.
- Begin by cleaning the container thoroughly. Drill a small hole near the top of the reservoir if using a closed container. It allows air to enter and prevents a vacuum from forming as the solution level decreases.
- Choose a suitable wick material and cut it to a length that reaches from the bottom of the reservoir to above the top of the growing medium in the pot. Fill the pot with the chosen growing medium, leaving about an inch of space at the top.
- Thread one end of the wick through the hole in the reservoir and place the other end in the pot, burying it slightly into the growing medium. Mix the hydroponic nutrients with water as per instructions. Plant your little cannabis, ensuring the roots are in contact with the moist growing medium. Regularly check the reservoir and refill it with a nutrient solution.
Pros:
- Simplest and most beginner-friendly
- Passive system
- Reduced risk of overwatering
Cons:
- Limited growth potential
- Less control over the environment
- Requires frequent monitoring of water level
How do you choose the right Cannabis Strains for Hydroponic Cultivation?
While almost any cannabis strain can be grown hydroponically, some characteristics make certain strains better suited for this method, especially for beginners. Here’s what to consider when choosing strains for your hydroponic setup:
- Fast growth rate: Hydroponics can accelerate growth, so strains that thrive under these conditions are ideal.
- Disease resistance: Hydro grows can be more susceptible to mold and fungus. Choose strains known for their hardiness.
- Nutrient tolerance: Fluctuations in pH and nutrients are more common in hydroponics. Opt for strains that can handle these variations.
- Size: Indica-dominant strains tend to be shorter and bushier, ideal for limited space. Sativas grow taller and require more room.
- Desired effects: Consider the effects you seek (relaxation, focus, etc.) Indica strains are known for relaxation, sativas for focus, and hybrids offer a mix.
Which Cannabis Strains should you prefer for the Hydroponics Method?
After you have chosen the hydroponics method, it’s time to pick cannabis strains suitable for Canada’s growing conditions. Many cannabis strains flourish with this medium as plants take nutrients via water fast and provide great yield. But it is only suited for indoor cannabis sativa variety which is suited for small grow tents.
Can Autoflower, Feminized, Regular, High Be Grown With Hydroponics? Yes, autoflower, feminized, regular, and high cannabis plants can all be grown hydroponically. It is a soil-free growing system that uses water and nutrients to help plants grow faster and healthier.
Example: White Widow
White Widow is a balanced cannabis strain with 50% sativa and 50% indica genetics. It is created by parent strain White Widow S1 and excites the body and mind in a balanced way. With earthy profiles, It has a 19% THC level providing a high psychoactive experience lasting several hours. It sprouts in 8-9 weeks and up to 100 cm, ideal for hydroponics.
How to grow Cannabis by Hydroponic at home?
Here is a step-by-step guide To Grow Cannabis Hydroponically:
Step-1.Grow cannabis in the soil before using hydroponics
Hydroponic technique requires expertise so it is advised to try growing in soil as it is cheaper and does not require special attention. For switching, you will require various equipment to optimize nutrients, light, and ventilation. Only take it if you are not able to grow it in soil for any reason.
Step-2. Buy Hydroponic materials
Ensure growing marijuana or cannabis in your area is legal. Purchase seeds from a reputed cannabis seeds seller online or offline in Canada, then buy cannabis seeds, white paint, hydroponic nutrients, growing medium ( coco coir, rock wool blocks, pebbles), grow lamps, pH test kit, fans, CFL.
Step-3. Pick a room or a closet and paint it white
White paint makes walls reflective and bright which helps in increasing photosynthesis. You can cover walls with aluminum foil too but it does not work as well as white paint.
Step-4. Hang CFL above the growing area and Install a Fan
Hang plants at a high spot right above the pots. You can hang them from a bar or use clamp lamps with built-in CFL for brightness. Give at least 7,000 lumens/ft2 for a standard grow operation. Keep a temperature between 73* F to 80* F. Add a fan for ventilation. A small oscillating fan will do. You can also add a duct to remove pungent odor.
Step-5. Germinating and Planting
Take a wet paper towel and wrap cannabis seeds in it. Place it and let it sit for 24 hrs. Make sure the towel doesn’t dry. Take the germinated seed, dig a small hole with a finger, and place it in the rock wool blocks or coco coir.
Use a pH test kit to measure water pH between 5.5 to 5.8. To lower the pH, add a few drops of vinegar, and to increase add a pinch of baking soda.
Step-5. Provide water, light, and nutrients.
Keep the coco coir moist with nutrient-filled water. Ensure that there is a hole beneath for extra water drainage so nutrients do not build up. Do not under water or over water.
At the vegetative stage, provide light for 18-24 hrs a day as your plants grow 6-18 inches tall. You can double the height if you provide enough light at the flowering stage until it reaches the final stage.
Get rid of male plants by looking for the signs. Female plants have white hairs, while male plants grow in grape-like structures. Males pollinate so females divert energy from THC. To know better, give your plant at least 6 to 12 weeks to complete the flowering stage. Water with plain tap water for 1-2 weeks before harvest.
Step-6. Harvesting
When and how should you harvest your hydroponic cannabis plants? Harvest buds by cutting one at a time. You can clip the whole plant at once, but wait until buds turn 70% brown, or till trichomes show up. Leaves do not contain high THC- remove and use it as pot butter. What are the drying and curing processes for hydroponic cannabis?Hang buds for 1-3 weeks before storing in an airtight container. Do not sun dry.
What are the advantages of Growing Cannabis Using the Hydroponics Method?
Growing cannabis using the hydroponics method offers several advantages compared to traditional soil-based cultivation, especially in a controlled indoor environment like those found in Canada. Here are some key benefits:
1. Increased Growth Rate and Yield: Hydroponic systems provide direct access to water and nutrients, eliminating the need to expend energy searching for these resources within the soil. It can lead to faster growth rates and potentially higher yields than soil cultivation.
2. Precise Control over Environment: It allows for precise control over factors like pH, nutrient levels, water temperature, and oxygen availability. This control enables you to optimize the growing conditions for your specific cannabis strain, potentially leading to improved quality and potency.
3. Reduced Risk of Pests and Diseases: Soil can hold harmful microorganisms that can damage or even kill cannabis plants. Since hydroponics eliminates the use of soil, the risk of pesticide and disease outbreaks reduced.
4. Efficient Use of Water and Nutrients: Hydroponic systems use significantly less water than soil cultivation, as the water is directly delivered to the roots and recycled within the system. Additionally, nutrients are not lost through leaching in soil, leading to more efficient nutrient utilization.
5. Space Optimization: Hydroponic systems, particularly vertical setups, allow for efficient space utilization, especially valuable in areas with limited space for cultivation.
6. Year-Round Cultivation: Hydroponic systems are not limited by seasonal weather changes, allowing year-round cultivation.
See also: Cannabis Legalization in Canada- What you need to know
What are the disadvantages of Hydroponics Systems?
Here are some drawbacks to consider:
- Higher Initial Investment: Setting up a hydroponic system requires purchasing specialized equipment like pumps, timers, reservoirs, and specific growing media. Compared to the simplicity of soil, the initial cost can be significantly higher.
- Demanding Maintenance and Monitoring: Unlike the self-regulating nature of soil, hydroponics demands constant monitoring of factors like pH, nutrient levels, and water temperature. Regular adjustments and maintenance are crucial for optimal plant growth and preventing issues.
- Condition to System Failure: Hydro systems are intricate and interconnected. A failure in one component, like a clogged line or pump malfunction, can have a domino effect, impacting the entire system and potentially harming your plants.
- Potential for Waterborne Diseases: The constant water circulation in a closed system can increase the risk of waterborne pathogens spreading rapidly throughout your plants, potentially causing significant damage or crop failure.
- Requires Expertise: Successfully operating and maintaining a hydroponic system requires expertise and understanding of the underlying principles. Beginners may find the learning curve steeper compared to traditional soil cultivation.
What are the mistakes to avoid when growing Cannabis Hydroponically?
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when growing cannabis hydroponically:
- Overfeeding: This can lead to nutrient burn, harming your plants and reducing yields. Monitor nutrient levels (EC and pH) regularly and adjust the solution accordingly.
- Underfeeding: Plants won’t get the essential nutrients they need for optimal growth, resulting in deficiencies and stunted growth. Improper temperature and humidity: Aim for a temperature range of 65-80°F (18-26°C) and humidity of 40-60%. Deviations from these ranges can stress plants and hinder growth.
- Inadequate lighting: Insufficient light intensity leads to weak, stretched plants with lower yields. Conversely, excessive light can cause heat stress and light burn. Choose the right grow lights and maintain proper distance from the plants.
- Ignoring root health: Regularly check root zones for signs of problems like root rot. Address issues promptly to prevent plant loss.
FAQS:
1. How can you ensure the quality and safety of your hydroponic cannabis product?
To ensure the quality and safety of your hydroponic cannabis products, include using quality nutrients, maintaining a clean system, and monitoring water quality.
2. What are the stages of cannabis growth in hydroponics?
Cannabis plants grow through four stages in hydroponics: germination, vegetative, flowering, and harvest. Each stage has its unique set of challenges and requirements.
3. How can you optimize yield and potency in hydroponic cannabis cultivation?
To optimize yield and potency in hydroponic cannabis cultivation, include using high-quality nutrients, maintaining a controlled environment, and providing adequate light.
4. Is general hydroponics good for cannabis plants?
General hydroponics is good for cannabis plants because it requires less water and nutrients than traditional soil cultivation systems and allows more control.
Hydroponics is hard but worth it!
Hydroponics is a great way to grow cannabis that uses water and nutrients to support plant growth. Hydroponics is generally easier to grow cannabis than traditional soil cultivation, and it also produces higher yields.
If you are looking for a way to grow high-quality cannabis in Canada, hydroponics is a great option. It is a safe, efficient, and effective way to produce a bountiful harvest. Just remember to get quality cannabis seeds from a reputed online cannabis seeds seller for a better harvest.
