How to Use Tomato Plant Fertiliser for Autoflowers
Autoflowers are strains of cannabis that flower automatically, regardless of the amount of light they receive. However, just like any other plant, they need proper nutrients to grow and thrive. One way to provide these nutrients is by using tomato plant fertiliser.
Choose the Right Type of Fertiliser
Tomato plant fertilisers come in various types, such as liquid, granular, and slow-release. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it's important to choose the right one for your autoflowers.
Liquid fertilisers are easy to apply and quickly absorbed by the plant. However, they need to be applied frequently and can be messy. Granular fertilisers, on the other hand, are easy to use and often last longer. Slow-release fertilisers are also convenient, as they only need to be applied once or twice per growing cycle. However, they can be more expensive and may not provide enough nutrients for fast-growing autoflowers.
Apply Fertiliser at the Right Time
Autoflowers have a short life cycle, so it's important to apply fertiliser at the right time to ensure maximum growth and yield. Generally, autoflowers require less fertiliser than photoperiod strains, as they have a shorter period of vegetative growth.
For liquid fertilisers, apply once every two weeks during the vegetative stage and once per week during the flowering stage. For granular or slow-release fertilisers, apply once at the start of the vegetative stage and once more midway through the flowering stage.
Measure the Fertiliser Properly
When applying fertiliser, it's important to measure the amount properly to avoid over or underfeeding the plant. Most fertilisers come with instructions on how much to use, based on the size of your growing container and the growth stage of your plant.
For liquid fertilisers, measure the amount as instructed and mix with water before applying. For granular fertilisers, spread evenly around the base of the plant, and water it in. For slow-release fertilisers, mix with soil or growing medium before planting, or add on top of the growing medium at the start of the vegetative stage.
Watch for Signs of Over or Underfertilising
Overfertilising can cause nutrient burn, where the tips of the leaves turn brown and curl up. Underfertilising can lead to stunted growth and lower yields. It's important to watch for signs of over or underfertilising and adjust your feeding regimen accordingly.
If you notice signs of overfertilising, stop feeding for a few days and flush the soil with water to remove excess nutrients. If you notice signs of underfertilising, increase the amount of fertiliser gradually until you reach the recommended dosage.
Conclusion
Using tomato plant fertiliser is an effective way to provide your autoflowers with the nutrients they need to grow and thrive. By choosing the right type of fertiliser, applying it at the right time, measuring it properly, and watching for signs of over or underfertilising, you can ensure a successful growing experience with your autoflowering cannabis plants.