Outdoor cultivation of marijuana refers to the practice of growing cannabis plants in natural environments, such as gardens or fields, without the use of artificial lighting or controlled indoor conditions. This traditional method of cultivation has been used for centuries and offers several unique advantages for growing marijuana strains.
Outdoor cultivation allows marijuana plants to thrive in their natural habitat, benefiting from sunlight, fresh air, and natural elements. This environment fosters the growth of robust plants that reach their full potential, resulting in healthier and more resilient strains.
50 Best Outdoor Strains:
Importance Of Outdoor Cultivation:
Encourages genetic diversity as plants are exposed to various environmental factors, including temperature fluctuations, seasonal changes, and natural predators. This diversity leads to the development of unique and distinct strains with specific traits and characteristics.
Many outdoor growers prioritize organic cultivation practices, avoiding the use of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides. This emphasis on organic methods result in cleaner and more sustainable cannabis products, appealing to consumers who value natural and environmentally friendly cultivation.
Outdoor-grown marijuana strains often exhibit unique terpene and cannabinoid profiles. The interaction between the plant and its natural environment influence the production of aromatic compounds terpenes and cannabinoids, giving each strain its distinct aroma, flavor, and effects.
Outdoor cultivation harnesses the power of the sun, providing plants with ample natural light and energy. This sunlight exposure enhances the production of cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD, potentially leading to higher potency levels in the resulting strains.
Compared to indoor cultivation, growing marijuana outdoors can be more cost-effective. Natural light eliminates the need for expensive artificial lighting systems, and the use of soil instead of hydroponics or other complex setups reduce overall costs. This accessibility makes outdoor cultivation an attractive option for small-scale growers and those seeking more affordable production methods.
Best Outdoor Strains Reviewed:
Flowering Time And Yield:
The flowering time of outdoor-grown marijuana strains vary depending on various factors, including the specific strain, climate, and geographical location. Unlike indoor cultivation, where growers manipulate lighting schedules to induce flowering, outdoor cultivation relies on natural light cycles.
Most traditional marijuana strains are photoperiodic, meaning their flowering is triggered by the change in daylight hours. For outdoor cultivation, these strains begin flowering when the days start to shorten, usually during late summer or early fall. The exact timing vary based on the latitude and climate of the growing region.
Indica-dominant strains tend to have a shorter flowering period compared to sativa-dominant strains. On average, they take around 7 to 9 weeks to complete flowering. These strains are well-suited for regions with shorter growing seasons or cooler climates.
Sativa-dominant strains generally have a longer flowering time, often ranging from 9 to 14 weeks or more. These strains are better suited for regions with longer growing seasons and warmer climates where they have enough time to fully mature.
Autoflowering strains are a popular choice for outdoor cultivation due to their unique genetics. These strains are not dependent on light cycles and will automatically transition from the vegetative stage to flowering after a certain period, usually around 2 to 4 weeks. Autoflowering strains have a shorter overall life cycle, often completing their growth in 8 to 12 weeks from seed to harvest.
Pruning and training techniques help optimize light penetration and airflow within the canopy, leading to increased bud development and reduced risks of pest and disease issues. Techniques such as topping, low-stress training (LST), and defoliation can be employed during the vegetative stage to promote bushier, more productive plants.