How Long Do I Hang Pot Plants?

One of the most common questions that plant enthusiasts ask is how long they should hang their pot plants for optimal growth. The answer, unfortunately, is not as simple as a fixed number of days or weeks. The duration of time that pot plants should be hung depends on several factors that differ from plant to plant. In this article, we will explore some of these factors and provide you with tips on how to know when your pot plants are ready to be taken down from their hanging positions.

Factor #1: Plant Type

The type of plant is one of the most crucial factors determining how long you should hang it. Some plants require more time to mature and thus will need to hang longer than others. For instance, cannabis plants typically take between 8 and 12 weeks to reach full maturity, while tomato plants mature in about 6 to 8 weeks. Other plants, such as herbs and strawberries, can take anywhere between 4 and 12 weeks to reach maturity depending on the type and the growing conditions.

Factor #2: Growing Conditions

The growing conditions of your pot plants play a vital role in determining how long they should hang. If your plants are growing in optimal conditions, they will grow faster and reach maturity much quicker than plants growing in less than ideal conditions. The quality of light, temperature, humidity levels, soil quality, and nutrients are all factors that affect the growth rate of your plants.

Factor #3: Yield Goals

Your yield goals are another determining factor when it comes to deciding how long to hang your pot plants. If you want to harvest your plants regularly, you will need to hang them for shorter periods. For example, if you are growing herbs and intend to harvest them every couple of weeks, you should hang them for around 4 to 6 weeks. On the other hand, if you are growing cannabis for a higher yield, you may need to hang them for 12 weeks or longer.

The Signs That Your Pot Plants Are Done Hanging

The best way to determine whether your pot plants are ready to be taken down is by looking at the buds. Here are some signs to look for:

The buds are ripe and have a sweet smell

The trichomes on the buds have changed from clear to opaque or amber color

The pistols on the buds have turned brown or red

You can see that the buds are fully developed and are no longer growing

Once you have observed these signs, you can proceed to cut down your plants and prepare them for harvesting. Make sure to hang and dry them properly to avoid any issues with mold or rotting.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there isn't a fixed number of days or weeks that pot plants should hang. The duration depends on many factors that differ from plant to plant. By considering the type of plant, growing conditions, and your yield goals, you can determine when your pot plants are ready to be taken down. Keep an eye on the buds' maturity and always ensure that you hang and dry them properly to avoid any potential issues.