Hey Hive Network folks,
It's been a while since my last post, but I'm thrilled to reconnect with this amazing community. Today, I'm particularly excited because I've just set up my new Cannabis Grow operation - a symbol of my undying passion for cannabis cultivation. While my days of frequent smoking are behind me, my enthusiasm for nurturing these plants is as strong as ever. It's not just a hobby; it's a craft that brings me joy and keeps me motivated.
A Decade of Cultivation Experience:
Reflecting on over 10 years of growing cannabis, my journey started outdoors, learning from nature itself. Transitioning to indoor cultivation, I experimented with HPS, Metal Halide, and fluorescent lights, each teaching me invaluable lessons about plant growth and environmental control. Now, with LEDs like the HLG BlackBird, I’m stepping into a new era of cultivation, eager to embrace its efficiency and unique growth dynamics.
Why LEDs and Why Now?
With LEDs revolutionizing indoor gardening, I couldn't resist jumping on board. LEDs are known for their efficiency and plant-friendly spectrum, but they also require a different approach compared to traditional lighting systems. Choosing to start with photoperiod plants was a strategic decision to learn and adjust to LED growing without overwhelming the space or the plants.
Starting Small, Thinking Big
Starting with just two plants in my 4x4 tent is a deliberate choice. It's not just about growing; it's about understanding the spatial dynamics, the interplay of light and canopy, and ensuring each plant gets the attention it deserves. This controlled start allows me to fully grasp the nuances of LED growing, setting the stage for larger, more ambitious grows in the future.
The Heart of My Setup:
In creating my ideal grow space, I've chosen a combination of top-tier equipment, focusing on quality, efficiency, and the ability to create the perfect environment for cannabis cultivation. Here's a breakdown of my setup:
HLG BlackBird LED Grow Light: This is the centerpiece of my lighting system. Known for its high efficiency and excellent full-spectrum light, it's ideal for both vegetative growth and flowering stages. The light's dimmable feature (ranging from 100-600 watts) makes it adaptable to different plant stages, reducing the risk of light burn while maximizing growth.
AC Infinity CLOUDLAB 844 Grow Tent: Measuring 4' x 4', this tent provides ample space for my plants to thrive. It's designed for optimal light reflection and insulation, ensuring a stable growing environment. The quality of the material and its sturdy construction make it a reliable choice for controlling the microclimate for my plants.
Climate Control Tools: Essential for maintaining the right conditions, I've included the Cloudline S4 Inline Duct Fan with a speed controller, a 4-inch duct carbon filter with Australian charcoal for air purification, and the SensorPush smart sensor for accurate humidity and temperature monitoring.
Fabric Pots and Soil Mixtures: The setup includes both 1-gallon and 5-gallon fabric pots, providing excellent drainage and aeration for the roots. This is coupled with high-quality Sohum Living Soil, which offers a rich, balanced medium for the plants.
Accessories and Tools: To complete the setup, I have Air King clip-on fans for air circulation, a 120V single outlet mechanical timer for light management, and Happy Hydro trimming scissors for plant maintenance. The ratcheting light hangers are a convenient addition for adjusting light height as the plants grow.
A Beginner's Guide to Growing Cannabis: This comprehensive guide is an invaluable resource, offering insights and tips for both novice and experienced growers, ensuring a successful and enjoyable growing experience.
Each component has been carefully selected to complement the others, creating an environment where my cannabis plants can flourish under optimal conditions. This setup not only reflects my years of experience and learning but also my commitment to embracing new technologies and methods in cannabis cultivation.
Strain Selection: A Twist of Flavor and Color
In choosing strains for this new setup, I was drawn to unique flavor profiles and growth characteristics. Here's why I'm particularly excited about the two strains I've selected:
Do Z Do: This strain is a captivating cross of Sour Do Si Do and Z3, renowned for producing short, bushy plants with a medium stretch. What really stands out about Do Z Do is its complex flavor profile - a delightful mix of the sweet taste of Zkittlez with the sour undertones from the Dosidos. Aesthetically, it's a feast for the eyes, with a color palette ranging from lime greens to deep purples as the plant matures. This variety is not just a grower's delight but also a surefire hit for those who appreciate the subtle art of flavor in their cannabis.
Deep Candy: This strain is a sensory experience, reminiscent of a nostalgic trip to a candy store. Deep Candy is known for its incredibly sweet, sugary smell and taste, which intensifies during the flowering phase. It’s a cross between two low THC cannabis strains, resulting in an average of 13% CBD content. This makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a milder, more clear-headed experience. In terms of visual appeal, Deep Candy can display a range of beautiful colors towards the end of its cycle, from red to dark blue, depending on the phenotypes and growing conditions. It's not just about the high with Deep Candy; it's about enjoying flavorful cannabis that keeps you active and engaged throughout the day.
Why These Strains?
My decision to grow Do Z Do and Deep Candy was influenced by their unique characteristics and how they complement the capabilities of my new LED setup. The combination of their distinctive flavors, colors, and growing requirements presents an exciting challenge and a rewarding opportunity. Both strains are ideal for an LED environment, which is known to enhance both the terpene profiles and the visual vibrancy of the plants. As I embark on this journey, I look forward to sharing the growth and development of these two extraordinary strains with the community.
What's Next?
I’m planning to document every step of this journey, from seedling to harvest. Whether you're a seasoned grower or just starting, I hope my experiences can provide both guidance and inspiration.
Let's Talk!
I’d love to hear from you! What strains have you been experimenting with? Any LED grow light experiences or tips you'd like to share? Let’s make this a two-way conversation.
Signing Off
Embarking on this journey, I'm reminded of why I started growing in the first place. It’s about more than just cultivation; it’s about connecting with nature, embracing a passion, and being part of a community that shares these values.
Stay tuned for more updates, and let's grow together!
Big shout out to @jonyoudyer - @canna-curate founder and @weedcash for keeping me inspired