How Much Water Should Cannabis Plants Get?

Water is one of the essential elements required for the survival of cannabis plants. However, the amount of water needed by cannabis plants varies depending on various factors such as the stage of growth, soil type, temperature, humidity, marijuana strain, and so on. Too much or too little water can cause problems with the growth and development of cannabis plants. Here is a guide on how much water cannabis plants should get:

Seedling Stage

At the seedling stage, it is crucial to keep the soil moist but not wet. Overwatering during this stage can lead to damping off, which is a fungal disease that causes the seedlings to wilt and die. Therefore, it is recommended to water the seedlings sparingly, once a day, with a spray bottle. Make sure the soil is not waterlogged, and the excess water is drained off to avoid root rot.

Vegging Stage

During the vegetative stage, cannabis plants require more water than at the seedling stage. The plants are growing taller and developing more foliage, so they need more water to complete their photosynthesis process. The general rule of thumb for watering cannabis plants during this stage is to water them thoroughly and deeply but let the soil dry out between waterings. This will encourage the growth of a healthy root system and prevent mold, mildew or other diseases that thrive in damp conditions.

Flowering Stage

During the flowering stage, cannabis plants require less water than the vegetative stage. The reason is that the plants are not growing as much foliage as before, and much of the energy is being directed towards producing buds. Overwatering during this stage can lead to bud rot, a disease caused by excessive moisture in the bud, which causes it to become slimy or discolored. To prevent bud rot, water the plants only when the top inch of soil is dry. This will allow for a proper balance of moisture and airflow around the buds.

Outdoor vs. Indoor Growing

The amount of water needed for cannabis plants also depends on whether you are growing them indoors or outdoors. Outdoor plants may require more water than indoor plants because they are exposed to natural elements such as rain, wind, and sun. You can check the moisture content of the outdoor soil with a simple test. Stick your finger into the soil up to the first knuckle. If the soil is dry to this depth, it's time to water. Indoor plants, on the other hand, may require less water because they are in a stable environment where temperature, humidity, and airflow are better controlled. Make sure to check the moisture level of the indoor soil regularly, by lifting the container; if it feels light, it’s a sign that you need to water it.

Conclusion

Proper watering is essential to the growth and development of cannabis plants. Overwatering or underwatering can cause severe problems such as root rot, mold, mildew, or bud rot, which can affect the final product. The amount of water needed by cannabis plants varies depending on various factors, including the stage of growth, soil type, temperature, and humidity. Always remember to let the soil dry out between waterings and check the moisture level regularly to prevent over-watering. When done correctly, watering cannabis plants can lead to healthy and productive plants that produce the desired outcome.