Commercial seed-to-sale cannabis cultivation is a monumental undertaking. At Dispensary Exit 243, we work in collaboration with some of the most respected, reputable growers in the industry. The very best industry’s most respected and reputable growers cultivation training programs to deliver some of today’s most in-demand strains and expertly crafted products.
With so many Idaho Springs customers asking our staff for cannabis cultivation tips, we thought it might be helpful to share our collective knowledge of some of today’s most popular cannabis indoor cultivation methods and growing mediums. Although it takes several months to reap the rewards of their investment, growing cannabis for personal use is a hobby Denver consumers seem to enjoy.
State Regulations: An Introduction to Indoor Cannabis Cultivation
In Colorado, residents 21+ are allowed to grow up to six cannabis plants for personal use. Only three plants, however, can flower at the same time. Households with more than two adults are limited to 12 plants. If anyone living in or visiting the home of a cannabis grower is under the age of 21, the plants must be secured in a locked, inaccessible area.
There are numerous resources providing cannabis cultivation tips. Although several sources suggest residents can grow cannabis outdoors, provided their plants are kept out of public view, state law requires home growers to stick with cannabis indoor cultivation. With or without cannabis cultivation training, the challenges of growing weed indoors are relatively easy to overcome.
Cannabis Cultivation: A Complete Growers Guide to Indoor Systems and Mediums
Successful indoor cannabis cultivation requires creating the right environment. Some hobbyists purchase portable, budget-friendly grow tents to simplify their shopping. Others buy grow lights, humidifiers, heaters, and fans individually based on the growing system selected and their preferred medium. Of the many options available, the following examples are among the most popular.
Hydroponic
Hydroponic systems grow cannabis in a reservoir of water (or coir). Plants in hydroponic setups tend to mature faster than plants potted in soil because growers have more control over pH levels, nutrient density, and the supplements they use to avoid root rot.
Aeroponics
Aeroponic systems require less water than hydroponic setups and take up little space. The plant’s roots are continuously sprayed with a nutrient-dense mist. The increase in oxygenation and carbon dioxide accelerates plant growth.
Soil
Soil is inexpensive and easy to use. However, the consistency, pH, and nutrient density of commercial soils can vary. Home growers often need to optimize indoor potting soil with a combination of organic matter, vermiculite, and/or perlite.
Coco Coir
Coco coir is made from coconut husk fiber. Dehydrated disks and bricks expand when mixed with nutrient-dense water. Although coir tends to cost more than soil, the medium is pH-balanced, pathogen-free, and insect-neutral.
Leca
Leca is made of sterile balls of lightweight clay that also expand in water. Like coir, the growing medium can be used in place of soil or in hydroponic systems. Its porous structure is ideal for maintaining optimal moisture levels in potted plants.
Cultivating Success: What to Expect as Your Investment Grows
Cannabis indoor cultivation requires nurturing plants through four distinct stages. During each stage of development, their lighting, temperature, and nutrient requirements change. After seeds are germinated and transferred to their growing medium, the seedlings need 18 hours of light and 6 hours of darkness for 2-3 weeks.
During the vegetative stage, the plants need stable temperatures between 70-80°F in spaces with 50% humidity. Their water and nutrient needs increase. The pre-flowering stage begins during the plant’s final growth spurt. Over the next 2-3 weeks, female plants develop oval leaves with white pistil hairs.
Male plants produce green pistil sacs and are typically destroyed. Maturing females require 12 hours of uninterrupted darkness, 85% humidity, and temperatures that can exceed 85° F. The buds are ready for harvest when their trichomes are milky white, and the pistils look rusty and curled.
For Unmatched Cannabis Expertise, Visit Dispensary Exit 243
Knowing the processes involved in raising healthy plants tends to increase consumer appreciation for growers consistently producing premium-quality flower. Whether you’re an experienced home grower interested in expanding your horizons or exploring your options for the first time, we think you’ll be just as impressed with the unmatched cannabis expertise of the staff at Dispensary Exit 243.
When you shop at our Idaho Springs dispensary, you can count on our cannabis experts for personalized product recommendations and answers to nearly any cannabis-related questions you may have. You can also reach out to us through our social media channels, the contact form on our website, or by calling 303-292-6902. We’re open daily from 8 AM to 8 PM.
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