Introduction
For many gardeners, growing pot plants is a favorite pastime. One common question that arises when growing cannabis is whether the plants grow taller when they start to flower. In this article, we will explore this question and look at some factors that may contribute to the growth of pot plants during their flowering stage.
The Basics of Cannabis Flowering
Cannabis plants typically enter the flowering stage after a period of vegetative growth, during which they develop their leaves and stems. The transition to flowering is an important process that depends on a variety of factors such as light, temperature, and genetics.
When cannabis plants start to flower, they produce buds that eventually develop into mature flowers. These flowers contain the plants’ psychoactive compounds and are what most growers aim to harvest.
Factors that Affect Pot Plant Growth
While the flowering stage is an important part of the cannabis growth cycle, several factors can affect the plant's growth during this stage. These factors include:
Light intensity: Cannabis plants require a certain level of light to grow, and this can vary during their growth cycle. During flowering, the plants require less light, and exposing them to too much light can actually hinder their growth.
Nutrient levels: The right balance of nutrients is essential for a pot plant to grow well, especially during flowering. Too much or too little of certain nutrients can impact growth and result in smaller, less robust plants.
Temperature: Pot plants thrive in a warm and stable environment, and temperature fluctuations can impact their growth. During flowering, the temperature should be maintained between 64-77°F for optimal growth.
The Relationship between Pot Plant Growth and Flowering
Now that we've discussed some factors that can impact pot plant growth during the flowering stage, let's get back to the original question - does pot plant growth increase during flowering?
The answer is yes - sort of. While the plant's overall height may not increase significantly during flowering, the buds and flowers themselves will continue to grow and develop until they are ready for harvest. As the plants shift their energy from vegetative growth to reproduction, they will divert resources towards the development of the buds and flowers, rather than new leaves and stems.
The Importance of Harvest Timing
While it's true that pot plant growth may not increase significantly during flowering, it's important to note that the timing of the harvest can impact overall yields. Waiting too long to harvest can result in reduced potency and loss of flavor, while harvesting too soon can result in a lower yield overall.
For the best results, growers should pay close attention to the development of the buds and flowers and aim to harvest at the optimum time, when the trichomes (the tiny resin glands that contain the psychoactive compounds) are fully developed.
Conclusion
While pot plant growth may not increase significantly during the flowering stage, this period is crucial for the development of the plants’ buds and flowers. By providing the right balance of light, nutrients, and temperature, you can optimize your plants’ growth and ensure the best possible harvest. Remember to pay close attention to the timing of the harvest, as this can impact overall yields and potency.