Autoflowering plants have gained popularity among growers due to their unique characteristics and ease of cultivation. Unlike photoperiod plants, autoflowers automatically transition from the vegetative stage to the flowering stage without the need for a specific light cycle. This makes them a convenient choice for both indoor and outdoor growers.
One crucial aspect of growing autoflowers is determining the optimal autoflower harvest time. Harvesting autoflowers too early can result in underdeveloped buds with lower potency while harvesting too late can lead to a decrease in THC levels and an increase in sedative effects. To help you achieve the perfect harvest, Medicgrow provides a detailed guide on determining autoflower harvest times here.
Table of Contents:
Understanding the Life Cycle of Autoflowers
Before diving into autoflower harvest times, it's essential to understand the life cycle of auto-flowering plants. Typically, autoflowers have a shorter life cycle compared to photoperiod plants, ranging from 8 to 12 weeks from seed to harvest.
This shorter cycle is due to their ruderalis genetics, which allows them to flower based on age rather than light exposure. If you are an indoor grower, using LED grow lights and grow tents can shorten the life cycle of autoflowering.
Observing Trichome Development
Trichomes are tiny, crystal-like structures that cover the buds and leaves of plants. These trichomes contain the cannabinoids and terpenes responsible for the plant's effects and aroma. Observing trichome development is a reliable method for determining autoflower harvest readiness.
Using a magnifying tool, such as a jeweler's loupe or a digital microscope, examine the trichomes on the buds. During the early stages of flowering, the trichomes will appear clear. As the plant matures, the trichomes will turn milky white. This stage indicates the peak THC levels and a more cerebral high.
If you prefer a more relaxing and sedative effect, wait for the trichomes to turn amber or a mix of amber and milky white. At this stage, THC levels begin to degrade, and the plant produces more CBN, which is known for its calming properties.
Monitoring Pistil Color
Pistils, also known as hairs, are the hair-like structures that emerge from the calyxes of female flowers. These pistils change color throughout the flowering stage and can provide additional insight into autoflower harvest readiness.
During the early flowering stage, pistils are usually white and vibrant. As the plant matures, the pistils will start to darken and change color. When approximately 70-80% of the pistils have turned brown or orange, it indicates that the autoflower is nearing harvest.
When to Harvest Autoflower?
As we mentioned above, observe trichome development and monitor pistil color to harvest your auto-flowering plants at the right time. Typically, autoflowers are ready to harvest about 8 to 12 weeks from germination. The trichomes should turn from clear to milky/cloudy for peak potency.
If you prefer a more relaxing and body-high effect, wait until some trichomes turn amber. Additionally, when 70-90% of the pistils (the hair-like structures on the buds) change from white to orange, red, or brown, it's a good sign your plants are nearing harvest time.
Don't forget to pay attention to the leaves and bud density. If the larger fan leaves start turning yellow and dying off, it means the plant is directing its energy into the buds. The buds should be dense and sticky to the touch. When this happens, it's time to harvest your autoflowers!
Considering the Breeder's Recommendations
When growing autoflowers, it's always helpful to refer to the breeder's recommendations for autoflower harvest time. Most reputable seed banks provide estimated harvest time for their auto-flowering strains. These estimates are based on the average flowering period of the specific strain and can serve as a useful guideline.
However, it's important to remember that environmental factors, such as full-spectrum light intensity, temperature, and nutrient availability, can influence the plant's growth and flowering time. Therefore, it's best to use the breeder's recommendations as a starting point and adjust based on your plant's characteristics.
For indoor growing, we highly recommend high-quality cannabis grow lights and grow tents such as the Medicgrow grow tent kits. This is not only suitable for autoflowers full-stage growth but also guarantees high quality and yield.
Final Thoughts
Determining the optimal harvest time for auto-flowering plants requires careful observation and consideration of various factors. By monitoring trichome development, and pistil color, and referring to the breeder's recommendations, you can ensure that your harvest yields potent and flavorful buds. Remember, patience is key, and a little extra time spent on determining the perfect harvest time will be well worth the wait.
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FAQs about Autoflower Harvest
1. How Long Do Autoflowers Flower?
Autoflowers typically flower for 6 to 9 weeks, with high-yielding strains flowering for 5-8 weeks. During this stage, reduce nitrogen fertilizer and increase phosphorus and potassium to promote resin production. In general, from germination to harvest, the entire lifecycle of an autoflower typically spans 8 to 12 weeks.
The exact flowering time can vary depending on the strain. While some autoflowers may finish in as little as 8 weeks, others might take up to 12 weeks to reach harvest. Factors like light, nutrients, and environmental factors, can also influence how quickly your plants complete their flowering stage.
2. How to Know When to Harvest Autoflower?
When harvesting autoflowers, closely monitor the trichomes and pistils. The best time to harvest is when trichomes turn from clear to milky or cloudy, and 70-90% of pistils have darkened and curled inward.
If you prefer a more relaxing effect, wait until 20-30% of the trichomes are amber. While most autoflower strains are ready in 8-12 weeks, relying on these visual cues ensures you harvest at the right time for the best quality and effect.
3. How Long Do Autoflowers Take Seed to Harvest?
Autoflowers typically take around 8 to 12 weeks from seed to harvest. The exact duration can vary depending on the strain and growing conditions. Some faster-growing autoflowers may be ready in as little as 5 weeks, while some might take up to 13 weeks.
Providing the right nutrients and using high-quality soil with good drainage and a pH of around 6.0-7.0 is essential for autoflower growth. Overfeeding or nutrient deficiencies can slow the growth cycle, extending the time to harvest.