Since the legalization of medical marijuana in Canada, an increasing number of Canadians have become curious about the marijuana industry and have shown an interest in growing their own medical marijuana.
In order to grow medical marijuana legally, the first thing that is needed is an ACMPR license. Once licensed, the next step is to decide between growing the plants outdoors or indoors. While both have their benefits, they both have their drawbacks.
Choosing to grow cannabis outdoors means the grower has less control of factors such as the environment or surrounding, rainfall, pests, and so on. However, if done properly, growing cannabis outdoor will result in higher yields and more potent strains.
While much of Canada is not suitable for growing plants outdoors, where it is possible, one must consider these tips in order to succeed:
CONSIDER THE CLIMATE
One of the most important considerations when growing any plant is the climate of the area. This will determine how well they grow, if at all, and what one can expect while cultivating the crops.
Persons who live in the coldest parts of Canada that are susceptible to harsh and unpredictable weather should steer clear of growing their cannabis plants outdoor.
However, in regions with seasonal weather conditions, the conditions may be much more favorable and growing outdoors for parts of the year may actually be possible. It is important to bear in mind that other factors may influence growth and that growing outdoors usually takes a bit longer than growing indoors.
PLANT YOUR SEEDLINGS IN POTS FIRST
For persons who are not familiar with growing their own outdoor crops, it is best to plant your seedlings in pots, rather than directly into the ground. This is because birds take a liking to brand new seedlings and within minutes, they will dig them back up and eat them!
The first time you plant your seeds, plant germinated seeds in small pots. Once they are at least 20 centimeters high, you can transfer them from the pots into the ground.
DIG YOUR HOLES LARGE ENOUGH
When your plants are ready to be transferred to the ground, dig your holes large enough to ensure optimal root growth. This will give the roots enough space to spread as they grow. If they do not have adequate space, the plant growth will be retarded.
PROTECT YOUR PLANTS FROM PESTS AND FUNGI
As aforementioned, growing outdoors can have drawbacks. One of these drawbacks is pest and fungi. In order to protect against larger animals, you may use fences and mesh. For insects that eat the leaves of your plant, using organic pesticides and insecticides or neem oil will keep them away.
You can also benefit from the introduction of beneficial insects or prey which, instead of eating your plant, eat the small insects that eat your plants.
The issue of fungi can be addressed by the wide range of products on the market today. All you need to do is visit your local gardening stores and speak to someone who will help you to choose the best product.
PROTECT YOUR PLANTS FROM PEOPLE
If you want to grow your marijuana plants outdoors but do not want people knowing about it, you should consider polyculture. All you will need to do is grow your crop between rows of other crops which will hide them from passersby. You may also build a large enough wall or fence to keep them hidden.
To prevent larceny, install video surveillance to thwart any plans and to identify culprits.
Once you follow these tips, growing your medical marijuana will be so much easier! All that will be left to do is to care for, and maintain your plants until they have reached maturity.
