When it comes to the cultivation process, cannabis nutrients play a very crucial role in the results that you will obtain. That’s simply cannabis 101, as plant nutrients need to be administered in the proper manner in order to maximize the size and vibrancy of your yield. There are three primary nutrients that are utilized during the cultivation process and each of their presences is not negotiable.
Nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium are the essential nutrients that are needed during cultivation. Of course, there is a wide range of nutrients available and they will all have different effects on the process. That’s why it is pivotal for potential cultivators to educate themselves before getting started. For example, nitrogen is the required nutrient for foliage development and protein production.
Phosphorus is critical in the development of seeds, roots and flowers. and seed development. Potassium is a requirement of overall plant health and aids in water absorption. In order to learn everything that you need to know, this guide is here to serve as a helpful stepping stone. We are here to help you find the highest-quality nutrients for your cultivation process.
At Reiziger, this is our specialty. We are committed to helping cannabis growers perfect their craft. Be sure to read on and learn more about how you can utilize the proper nutrients to get the most out of your next yield.
Understanding the Importance of Cannabis Nutrients
As mentioned above, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium are the most crucial nutrients that have to be used during the cultivation process. Each of the three nutrients will be used in higher concentrations, while the actual levels will vary depending on which stage of development is taking place. There are certain rules of thumb that need to be followed as well.
Bear in mind that a high nitrogen concentration and a lower level concentration of potassium and phosphorus are needed during vegetation. Once the flowering process begins, higher phosphorus and potassium levels are required, while the nitrogen level is decreased to a lower level. These three nutrients serve as the cornerstone of any healthy cannabis plant.
There are some key differences between cannabis plants and other types of plants that need to be discussed before we can proceed. Do not make the mistake of assuming that similar practices from other plant cultivation processes can be used. Every choice that you make will have a marked impact on nutrient needs, including genetics, growing environment, and cultivation methods.
Today’s cannabis cultivators now have access to all sorts of genetic information that it makes easier to decide on which nutrients are needed most. The genetic markers allow a cultivator to utilize a DNA analysis so that they can screen the seeds they are using for sought-after qualities and align their growth process with the proper nutrients.
This cuts down on the amount of time needed and gives the cultivator the ability to sidestep a number of potential pitfalls that are more evident in a lengthier growth process. Meanwhile, the growth environment also has to be considered. While cannabis plants will still require the same essential building blocks whether they are being grown indoors or outdoors, there are some distinctions that must be made as far as nutrients are concerned.
If soil is not being used, the grower has the option of relying on a pre-formed mix, or they can create their own customized solutions. This offers a greater level of control than outdoor growing can provide. Growers can use pre-formulated nutrient mixes or create their custom solutions. This affords a level of control that is not possible in outdoor growing.
When the cultivator is using a hydroponic or semi-hydroponic system, the nutrient solutions will recirculate, which allows for a greater level of efficiency. It is also easier to monitor pH and nutrient levels. allowing for efficient nutrient use and easier monitoring of pH and nutrient levels. On the other hand, outdoor growers must be sure that they are selecting the nutrients best aligned with soil-based growth.
Each nutrient company also creates a different formula for every stage of the process, which is crucial knowledge for outdoor cultivators. Make sure that the proper nutrients are chosen for the stage you are in and the growing medium.
The Core Nutrients for Cannabis Growth
The macronutrients N-P-K refer to the nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium used during this process. Each of these nutrients plays a role in the growth of healthy cannabis plants. Nitrogen is most closely associated with leaf and stem growth. Phosphorus is crucial for root development and flowering, while potassium enhances disease resistance and the plant's overall health.
The NPK base nutrients will have to be applied in different ratios throughout the plant’s life cycle, which bears mentioning. During the seedling stage, nothing needs to be done. The vegetative stage is a different story. The preferred NPK ratio during this stage is 3:1:1. That does not mean the plant should be fed with a fertilizer with this ratio, though.
The majority of soils that you are going to find are already rich in nitrogen. There will be enough present for the plant to survive its first month of vegetative growth. The nutrient solution must be reconfigured based on the substrate’s current NPK ratio for best results. It is always better to have a slight nutrient deficiency than too much, so remain cautious.
If the soil is good, a fertilizer that provides a 1:1:1 ratio will work well. As the flowering stage begins, the requirements shift. The preferred NPK ratio is 1:3:2 during early and mid-bloom. During the late flowering, the ratio becomes 0:3:3. Phosphorus and potassium are responsible for the buds’ quantity and size. The primary objective at this time is to increase these nutrients while tapering off the nitrogen.
Using too much nitrogen late in the blooming process will spoil the plant. The buds will have a harsh taste and not smoke as smoothly. Do not use any nitrogen during the final 20 to 30 days.
Micronutrients: Ensuring a Complete Diet
Magnesium, calcium and sulphur are the most crucial micronutrients. Boron, manganese, zinc, copper, iron, and molybdenum are also pivotal in ensuring a complete diet for each plant. Each of the listed nutrients plays a particular role as well. Lesser amounts are needed, as the grower should continue to err on the side of caution.
Calcium will assist in the transporting of various other nutrients, aiding in faster absorption. Magnesium is one of chlorophyll’s critical elements. Sulfur will aid in chlorophyll’s transfer, also assisting with plant transpiration and metabolism. Boron assists with the growth and development of root tips while helping to absorb Ca and transport necessary plant sugars. Manganese is a key aspect of chlorophyll production and helps with enzyme interactions and photosynthesis.
Zinc will aid in stem, leaf and branch development. More mature plants will require higher amounts of zinc. Copper is instrumental in protein development and helps to strengthen branches and stems. Iron is pivotal when it comes to chlorophyll production, keeping the leaves from yellowing between the veins. Molybdenum is helpful for processing nitrogen.
Vegetative Stage Nutrient Requirements
During the vegetative stage, vigorous plant growth and strong root development are important. That’s why adhering to Reiziger’s recommended nutrient regimen for this stage is important. The nutrients that are used will depend on the week of the stage and the type of medium that is used. If the cannabis is being grown in a hydroponic setup, nutrient requirements are the same for the first three weeks.
6 to 14 ml of grow food A&B, 5 ml of root booster and 25 ml of grow booster are used for three weeks. In the final week, the amount of REIZIGER COCO FOOD A&B will increase to 8 to 16 ml, while the other amounts remain the same. If peat mix is being used, the amount of root booster and grow booster remain the same during the first weeks, while the grow food A&B amount will range between 4 to 12 ml.
During the final week of the vegetative stage, that amount increases to 6 to 14 ml. For coco users, the nutrient regimen is the same as it would be for a hydroponic setup.
Flowering Stage Nutrient Requirements
Once this stage has arrived, nutrient ratios must be adjusted so that resin development and flower production are fully supported. It is important to make these adjustments throughout each stage of the process, so that yield and growth are maximized. For hydroponic setups, the root booster and grow booster amounts remain the same throughout the eight-week flowering stage.
25 ml of root booster and grow booster is applied during these eight weeks. The bloom food A&B is what changes, starting at 15 to 25 ml for the first two weeks. During weeks 3 to 5, this number rises to 20 to 30 ml before decreasing to 10 to 20 mil for weeks 6 and 7 and 5 to 14 ml for the final week. As for peat mix, the root and grow booster amounts remain at 25 ml for all eight weeks.
The bloom food A&B amount starts at 10 to 20 ml for the first two weeks before rising to 15 to 25 ml for the next three weeks. During weeks 6 and 7, the amount decreases back to 10 to 20 ml and only 5 to 14 is required during the final week. The coco coir requirements are much like peat and hydroponic from a root booster and grow booster standpoint, as 25 ml will be required for all eight weeks.
As for bloom food A&B, this is where changes will be made. For coco, 12 to 23 ml is required for the first two weeks. 20 to 30 ml is needed for the third and fourth weeks, while 22 to 34 ml will be used during week 5. That number decreases to 10 to 20 mil for weeks 6 and 7 and 5 to 14 ml during the final week of the vegetative stage.
Implementing a Successful Nutrient Feeding Routine
At each stage of the plant’s life, different requirements will be put into place. It helps for a cultivator to understand the basics before they get started. During the initial growth period, higher amounts of nitrogen are required. Less nitrogen is needed as the process goes along but you will be increasing the amounts of phosphorus and potassium that are used.
The nutrient-feeding routine will also vary depending on the methods of nutrient application, as discussed above. This is not a one size fits all process. You will need to follow the proper instructions for hydroponic, soil or coco coir based growth. There are other factors that will influence cannabis plant nutrient uptake as well.
The temperature in an outdoor or indoor setting must be discussed. The higher the temperature, the faster nutrient uptake will take place. In colder settings, this process slows down significantly. Nutrient transport will become slower as well. pH imbalances must also be addressed immediately, as they are another common factor as far as nutrient deficiencies are concerned.
A slightly acidic soil with a pH level between 6 or 7 is preferred but in a soil-less or hydroponic setting, a pH level of 5.5 to 6.5 is best. In addition to deficiencies, nutrient lockout and nutrient burn can take place with improper balance. It is important to note that EC levels also tell a crucial story about plant nutrient levels that cultivators must listen to.
If the EC levels are too high, this means that too many nutrients are being applied and the plants are not retaining them. Low levels indicate a deficiency. Each of these mistakes can cause salt toxicity to take place, which leads to leaf burn.
While most cannabis plants tend to be very resilient, that does not mean that they can simply be left to their own devices. Regular solution nutrient testing must take place so that the cultivator can make the necessary adjustments. While it is best to err on the side of caution and remain deficient when it comes to nutrients, these deficiencies cannot become too exaggerated. Let’s take a closer look at how to identify and address them.
Recognizing and Addressing Nutrient Imbalances
For example, a phosphorus deficiency becomes evident leaves start to yellow and fall off the plant. Leaves may also turn purple and struggle to grow. Buds will become smaller and fail to develop properly. The plant is more susceptible to diseases and pests, which necessitates regulation of the pH level. It must be restored to the 5.5 to 6.5 range in these instances, while micronutrients must be administered in smaller amounts because nutrient lockout could be to blame when there is too much excess.
Potassium shows similar signs. When a deficiency is taking place, leaves will yellow, plants are weakened, buds are smaller and the final yield is reduced. If other nutrients are not being absorbed, this is a sign of excess. To avoid these problems, a balanced hybrid strain should be selected to avoid deficiency in the first place. In excess scenarios, the roots may need to be flushed to remove the salts.
Nitrogen deficiencies also cause yellowed leaves to turn brown and fall off. The plant may also take on a lime or pale coloration. This is a sign that the plant needs more nutrients, especially nitrogen. Meanwhile, cannabis plants that are receiving an excess amount of nitrogen will start to darken. This is a simple enough fix, as the cultivator can cut back on nitrogen. For deficiencies, supplement the nutrients that are being provided accordingly.
Exploring Reiziger’s Premium Nutrient Solutions
Reiziger provides coco coir, peat and expanded clay substrates, allowing the cultivator to select the option that works best for their specific needs. The same goes for the booster collection, which includes root, grow bloom, and bud options. Cultivators who choose Reiziger products are gaining access to no shortage of helpful benefits, as this company is highly dedicated to providing a high-quality experience for all those who choose them.
Cannabis growers will always thrive when they choose this company because all of the solutions that are offered have been tailored to their specific needs. After all, the cultivation of cannabis is not a one size fits all proposition. These solutions are of the highest quality and provide numerous advantages. Using Reiziger products will increase yields, keep pests and disease at bay and keep the plant from experiencing untimely nutrient lockouts during the cultivation process.
That’s because the nutrient formulation that Reiziger provides are designed specifically to assist cannabis cultivation. With Reiziger, not only will plants experience robust growth and higher yields, but the terpene and cannabinoid profiles are also greatly enhanced.
Final Thoughts
The cannabis nutrients discussed in this guide are all essential, from the macronutrients to the micronutrients. If they are not applied properly, successful cultivation is not going to take place. This refers to deficiencies and excesses. By taking the proper steps, a cultivator ensures a robust yield that is at the higher end of their expectations.
Without proper nutrient management, cannabis cultivation will not be successful. Plants will wither and die and become more susceptible to diseases and pests. If cultivation is able to be completed, the plant will not provide the big, beautiful buds that a grower desires. That’s why it is crucial for a grower to develop a strong level of understanding when it comes to nutrient science.
The more that is learned about this topic, the better the yields and quality will be. No one is going to become an expert overnight, though. It is an ongoing learning process but before long, you will have mastered nutrient application and be able to enjoy the best cannabis crops possible. The process becomes even easier with the good folks at Reiziger by your side.
Reiziger has an unshakable commitment to providing top-quality nutrients to cannabis growers. All Reiziger products are specifically designed to assist cultivators from all backgrounds and help them to accomplish any objective that they have met. Visit a location near you and get your premium nutrients to truly be able to “Perfect Your Craft”!
