What are the main differences between autoflowering and photoperiod cannabis plants? Which one is more suitable for beginners?
One answer “Autoflowering vs. photoperiod plants?”
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What are the main differences between autoflowering and photoperiod cannabis plants? Which one is more suitable for beginners?
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Autoflowering and photoperiod cannabis plants have a wide range of differences. To start off with, autoflowering plants are naturally bred to flower throughout the growth cycle, whereby photoperiod plants require more manipulation of lighting in order to flower. Autoflowering plants are more suitable for the beginner, as the growth cycle is much more straightforward and requires less knowledge than photoperiod plants.
Autoflowering plants usually begin flowering within a couple weeks of germination and are usually harvested within 10 to 11 weeks from seed; these plants are genetically predisposed to flower in response to age, rather than any external environmental stimulus such as light cycles. Photoperiod plants however require more intensive lighting schedules and topping off in order to induce flowering. Depending on strain and growing conditions, photoperiod plants can take anywhere between 8 to 22 weeks to flower and be ready for harvest.
Autoflowering plants tend to be quite small and bushy, growing between 30-80 cm and maturing very quickly; they don’t require as much space as photoperiod plants. They are best suited to indoor growing, as they have a shorter flowering and maturation stage, although they can also be grown outdoors, as long as they don’t get too much light or too cold. Photoperiod plants, on the other hand, tend to be much larger and require more space, up to six feet or taller, with several branches when fully mature.
Photoperiod plants produce higher yields however, as they flower for longer, allowing them to develop and mature more. Autoflowering plants, when grown indoors, can be harvested up to four times a year, giving them the advantage of quick and multiple harvests. Photoperiod plants need to be timed carefully with the changing of seasons, making them more challenging to grow outdoors.
In terms of THC and CBD content, photoperiod plants tend to have more THC and less CBD. Autoflowering plants have more balanced levels of both compounds, but the exact ratio is dependent on the particular strain. Autoflowering plants have a wide range of strain options, meaning you can grow plants from a range of different THC to CBD profiles.
When it comes to bud density, autoflowering plants are much more compact, whereas photoperiod plants produce bigger and denser buds. Autoflowering plants also produce more of a smell, with a less intense and more herbal aroma than photoperiod buds.
Ultimately, autoflowering plants are great for novice growers as they are simpler to grow and can be harvested multiple times a year, making them more cost effective. Photoperiod plants require more precision and patience, with higher yields and stronger aroma, making them more suitable to the more experienced growers.