Introduction

Growing a pot plant outside can be a rewarding experience, but it requires knowledge, patience, and dedication. Once you've put in the effort to grow your pot plant, you may be wondering what it will look like when it's done. In this article, we'll take a look at the characteristics of a mature outdoor pot plant.

Growth Cycle

The growth cycle of a pot plant varies according to the strain, environment, and growing conditions. Generally, the vegetative stage lasts about four to six weeks, during which the plant will focus on developing its stems, leaves, and branches. After this stage, the plant will enter the flowering period, which can last up to ten weeks or longer depending on the strain. As the plant progresses through the flowering stage, it will begin to produce buds, which will continue to mature until the plant is done.

Appearance

The appearance of an outdoor pot plant can vary depending on its genetics, growing environment, and growing methods. However, there are some general characteristics you can look for to determine if your plant is mature. A mature plant should have a strong and sturdy stem that supports its foliage, flowers, and buds. Its leaves should be large, bright green, and evenly spaced out along the stem. The buds should be dense, sticky, and covered in trichomes, which are the tiny, crystal-like structures that contain the plant's cannabinoids and terpenes.

Aroma

The aroma of a mature pot plant can be one of its most enticing qualities. The aroma of each strain can vary according to its genetics, but a mature plant should have a strong and distinct scent. Some strains have earthy, fruity, or spicy aromas, while others have sweet, floral, or skunky scents. To fully appreciate your plant's aroma, harvest it when the scent is strongest, which is usually during the late flowering stage.

Harvesting and Drying

Harvesting and drying your outdoor pot plant is a crucial step in the growing process. To determine when your plant is ready to be harvested, look for the pistils, which are the small, hair-like structures on the buds. When the majority of the pistils have turned a dark brown or red color, your plant is ready to be harvested. Once you've harvested your plant, hang it upside down in a cool, dry, and dark place to dry for about a week or two. After the plant has dried, trim off the leaves and stems, and cure the buds in airtight jars for another one to two weeks. This process will help to enhance the flavor and potency of your cannabis.

Conclusion

Growing an outdoor pot plant can be a fulfilling experience, and with proper care and attention, you can produce a mature plant with dense buds and a distinctive aroma. By understanding the growth cycle, appearance, aroma, and harvest process of your plant, you can ensure a bountiful and enjoyable yield of cannabis.