I’ve heard that different fertilizers are better for different stages of a cannabis plant’s growth. What is the best fertilizer to use for flowering cannabis plants?
One answer “What is the best fertilizer for flowering cannabis plants?”
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When it comes to selecting a fertilizer for your cannabis plants during the flowering stage, sun and patience will likely always be your best ingredients, but your fertilizer choice could be the difference between a good yield or a great one. During the flowering stage, a cannabis plant’s nutrient needs change significantly, requiring a different type of fertilizer than during the vegetative or growth stages. To achieve the best possible results and ensure a bountiful harvest, choosing the right fertilizer for your flowering cannabis plants is essential.
One of the most important factors to consider when selecting a fertilizer for flowering cannabis plants is NPK ratio. During the flowering stage, cannabis needs something known as “bud booster” nutrition, which generally involves different ratios of NPK that are more balanced than vegetable fertilizer, containing decreased nitrogen and increased phosphorus, potassium, and trace elements, such as magnesium and calcium.
An ideal mix for flowering cannabis typically contains a 2-10-4 or 3-12-6 ratio, or something close to those. This means that the fertilizer contains lower nitrogen levels (N), higher phosphorus levels (P), medium to high potassium levels (K), and trace elements. Other key nutrients to look for in fertilizer specifically formulated for cannabis plants include zinc, copper, and iron, as well as others (e.g. boron) depending on the soil, and possibly some added organic matter.
Organic fertilizers are not only an excellent choice for cannabis flower production, but can also provide many essential benefits to your flowering plants, such as providing essential nutrients and beneficial microorganisms to promote plant health, emulsify clay soils, and reduce pests and diseases. However, organic fertilizers generally release their nutrients slower than chemical fertilizers, meaning they must be reapplied more often for the best results.
Another option for flowering cannabis plants is synthetic chemical fertilizers, which are readily available and provide instant results. These traditional, water-soluble powder or liquid fertilizers can provide the necessary macronutrients to plants quickly, allowing for faster growth. Many fertilizers also contain micronutrients, making them ideal for cannabis plants. Synthetic fertilizers are a great way to quickly deliver nutrients that are missing from the soil or are in low concentrations, but should be used sparingly to avoid overloading the plant’s vascular system and potentially causing nutrient deficiencies.
No matter the type of fertilizer chosen, it’s important to read the label and follow the application instructions depending on the plant variety and soil type. As cannabis plants near maturity, they usually need less nitrogen and more phosphorus and potassium, so monitor which nutrients the plants need and adjust accordingly. Finally, always ensure there is proper drainage in the soil and avoid over-fertilizing as this can cause nutrient toxicity and growth issues, leading to a less than desirable harvest. With the right fertilizer, your cannabis can flourish during the flowering stage and reach its maximum yield potential.