Introduction

Growing outdoor cannabis plants requires different considerations compared to indoor farming. One of the most critical factors to consider is water intake as it can affect the plant’s growth and development. In this article, we will answer the question, “How much water does an outdoor cannabis plant need?” and discover the significant variables that affect the plant’s water requirements.

Environmental Factors

Cannabis plants require water to perform various physiological processes, and the amount they need depends on environmental factors. The most important variables include temperature, humidity, and wind. During hot or dry weather, plants need more water to prevent wilting and dehydration. In contrast, low humidity can cause water to evaporate quickly, requiring more frequent watering.

Wind also affects the plant’s water intake. Strong gusts can remove water vapor from the leaves, affecting photosynthesis and transpiration processes. Therefore, cannabis plants exposed to high winds need more water than those grown in calmer conditions.

Plant size and maturity

The water requirements of an outdoor cannabis plant also depend on its size and maturity level. Younger plants tend to consume less water than mature ones because they have smaller roots and fewer leaves to transpire. Similarly, smaller plants require less water than larger ones. As the plants grow, they develop more roots and leaves, which increase their water intake.

It’s essential to make sure that you don’t overwater your plants, especially mature ones. Overwatering can cause the roots to suffocate, affecting the plant’s growth and yield.

Soil and Water retention

The type of soil you choose and how well it retains water also affect the water intake of your outdoor cannabis plants. Well-draining soils allow excess water to drain out, preventing root rot and mold growth caused by standing water. However, soils that drain too fast may not retain enough moisture to nourish the plant, requiring more frequent watering.

The water retention capacity of the soil also varies with its organic matter content. Soils with high organic matter content retain more water and nutrients, so plants need less frequent watering. On the other hand, soils with low organic matter content may require more water to keep the plants hydrated.

Summing up

Determining how much water an outdoor cannabis plant needs depends on numerous variables, including environmental factors, plant size and maturity, and soil type. However, as a general rule of thumb, you should give your plants water when the top inch of soil feels dry. It’s essential to avoid overwatering your plants to prevent root rot and mold growth caused by standing water. By carefully monitoring your plants’ water intake, you can ensure maximum growth, yield, and potency.