Introduction

Outdoor pot plants are becoming increasingly popular among gardeners and home growers as they provide a convenient and affordable way to cultivate a variety of cannabis strains. However, the timing of the budding phase is essential to ensure that growers get the best yields possible. In this article, we will discuss when outdoor pot plants should start to bud and what factors affect this timing.

Factors affecting outdoor pot plant budding

Several factors affect the timing of outdoor pot plant budding. These include:

Variety of Cannabis Strain

The variety of cannabis strain being grown is one of the most crucial factors that affect the timing of the budding phase. Some strains are known to take longer than others to enter the budding phase. Indica-dominant strains tend to have a shorter flowering period compared to sativa-dominant strains. Therefore, it’s essential to do some research on the type of cannabis strain being grown and understand its flowering characteristics.

Seeds and seedlings

The timing of the budding phase is also affected by the quality of seeds or seedlings used in growing the cannabis plants. Using fresh seeds or healthy seedlings guarantees healthy plants that mature at the expected time.

Climate and weather

The climate and weather conditions also play a significant role in determining when outdoor pot plants should start to bud. Cannabis plants require optimal temperature, humidity, and light conditions to grow correctly. Generally, cannabis plants need warm and moderate temperatures of between 70-85°F to enter the flowering stage. If the temperature drops below 50°F, the plants tend to go dormant, which can delay the budding phase.

Nutrient levels

The nutrient levels present in the soil or fertilizer used are also crucial in determining when outdoor pot plants should start to bud. Cannabis plants require different nutrient levels during the vegetative and flowering stages. A nutrient imbalance, especially during the flowering phase, can affect the plant's growth and delay flowering.

When Should Outdoor Pot Plants Start to Bud?

Outdoor pot plants typically start to bud at different times of the year, depending on the location and climatic conditions. Generally, outdoor cannabis plants start to bud when the days start to shorten and the night lengths increase. This stage is known as the "pre-flowering" stage, which lasts between 1 to 2 weeks. Once the pre-flowering stage is over, the plants enter the budding phase, which can take 6-14 weeks, depending on the strain being grown.

The exact timing of the budding phase in outdoor pot plants is influenced by the latitude and the amount of daylight hours in the area. For instance, in temperate regions, the budding phase may occur between August and September, while in more southern regions, the budding phase may occur earlier, between late July and August.

Conclusion

The timing of the budding phase in outdoor pot plants is critical in determining the plant's yield and potency. Factors such as genetics, climate, nutrient levels, and the quality of the seeds or seedlings used play a substantive role in determining when outdoor pot plants should start to bud. By understanding these factors, growers can optimize their cultivation process, ensuring that their flowers reach their full potential in flavor, potency, and yield.