What does Photoperiods and autoflowers mean when talking about cannabis?

In this article The Friendly Grower is going over the differences between two of the main classes of cannabis.

Cannabis is a fascinating plant that has been used for various purposes for thousands of years. Today, cannabis is popularly grown for its medicinal and recreational effects. Two primary types of cannabis are available in the market - photoperiod cannabis and autoflower cannabis. Although both types of cannabis share many similarities, there are significant differences between them. In this article, we will explore the differences between photoperiod cannabis and autoflower cannabis.

Photoperiod Cannabis (Sativa/Indica):

Photoperiod cannabis is a type of cannabis that relies on the number of hours of light and darkness it receives to trigger its flowering stage. Photoperiod cannabis requires a specific light schedule to initiate and maintain the flowering stage. Typically, the plant requires 12 hours of uninterrupted darkness and 12 hours of light each day to begin flowering. This light cycle can be maintained throughout the flowering stage to ensure that the plant continues to flower.

One of the most significant advantages of photoperiod cannabis is that growers have complete control over when the plant flowers. This allows them to maximize the yield and control the growth of the plant. Growers can also manipulate the light cycle to encourage vegetative growth or switch to the flowering stage as desired.

However, photoperiod cannabis requires a lot of attention and care from the grower. Any interruptions in the light cycle can disrupt the flowering stage and reduce the overall yield. Additionally, photoperiod cannabis requires a longer growing period than autoflower cannabis.

Autoflower Cannabis (Ruderalis):

Autoflower cannabis is a type of cannabis that automatically transitions from the vegetative stage to the flowering stage, regardless of the light cycle. Unlike photoperiod cannabis, autoflower cannabis does not require a specific light schedule to trigger its flowering stage. Instead, the plant automatically flowers after a certain number of weeks, usually between 2 to 4 weeks after germination.

One of the most significant advantages of autoflower cannabis is that it does not require a specific light cycle, making it much easier to grow. Additionally, autoflower cannabis typically has a shorter growing period than photoperiod cannabis, meaning growers can harvest the plant more quickly.

However, autoflower cannabis has some disadvantages as well. The plant typically yields less than photoperiod cannabis, and the grower has limited control over the growth of the plant. Autoflower cannabis is also less forgiving when it comes to mistakes or errors in the growing process.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, both photoperiod cannabis and autoflower cannabis have their advantages and disadvantages. Photoperiod cannabis provides growers with complete control over the growth of the plant, while autoflower cannabis is easier to grow and has a shorter growing period. Ultimately, the choice between the two types of cannabis comes down to the grower's preferences and needs.

Alot of what we do is choice and preferences much like I prefer growing autos indoors for the fast turnover time. Find what's right for you by trying different things, being open minded and educating yourself when you can.

Don't forget to like and share this post to help me grow 😄. Thanks for thanking the time to read it!

-The Friendly Grower