Becoming a master grower

Yes, you’re right; there really isn’t such a thing as a master cannabis grower. There are far too many ways to grow and far too many requirements from a myriad of varieties. It’s nearly impossible to be able to legitimately call yourself a master grower. However, mastering a particular style of growing with a particular cultivarA cultivated variety, often mistakenly called a 'strain.' More is very possible.

I recently talked to a new grower that was struggling with nutrient regimes for a variety he was working with. He was disappointed because he just couldn’t get it dialed in. Eventually, he answered his own question when he said; “I don’t get it. This is how I fertilized the last one and it turned out great!?”

It dawned on him – different varieties have different requirements. He was right. Some varieties like to stay very moist, while others need a good dry-out between waterings. Some varieties appreciate high levels of nutrients, while others are more picky about what they eat and how often. Low humidity is better for kush and afghan, while other varieties prefer high temperatures and high humidity. As you can see, a certain variety will have a preference for almost every variable you set in the grow.

I know it is hard to resist the temptation to GROW ALL THE THINGS!!! But, especially for new growers, I feel its important to get good at growing one or two varieties. It’s fine to experiment right out of the gate because, why not? The upside is that you might find a variety that really likes the way you have setup and executed your grow.

When you’re ready, pick a couple of varieties to stick with for a few grows. Get good that providing what they need and experience what an extremely healthy plant will produce for you. You’ll also find that those extremely healthy plants will have very few pest issues. Building this base of positive experiences will be great for your future as a cultivator and are nearly as valuable as the mistakes we all make along the way.

So which varieties are you going to pick to master? How are you, or how did you select them? Which varieties do you feel you have mastered now?

Happy Harvests!
— The Lit Farmer —