How To Take Care Of A Weed Plant: Best Practices

There’s much more to growing cannabis than just planting a seed and waiting for buds to appear.

Understanding how to take care of a weed plant is essential for healthy growth and vibrant harvests. In this guide, we’ll walk you through best practices for maintaining your cannabis plant, troubleshooting common issues, and ensuring that your plants flourish throughout every stage of growth.

Note: This article focuses on the maintenance and problem-solving side of plant care. While growing cannabis involves a whole process from germination to harvest, proper plant care is the secret to boosting your crop’s performance and preventing stress or even plant death. Let’s dive in!

Water is the lifeblood of any plant, and cannabis is no exception. But how much water does a cannabis plant need? This section explores the intricacies of watering your weed plant, including finding the balance between overwatering and underwatering, setting up the right schedule for each growth stage, and ensuring your water’s pH is just right.

Cannabis plants have varying water requirements depending on their stage of growth. Generally, during the vegetative stage, your plant may need more water to support rapid growth, while in the flowering stage, a more moderated watering schedule can help avoid issues like bud rot. One of the most common questions is, “How much water does a cannabis plant need?” and while the answer can vary based on pot size, soil type, and environmental conditions, a good rule of thumb is:

• Seedlings: Light, frequent watering to keep the soil moist, not soaking.
• Vegetative Stage: Water thoroughly once the top inch of soil is dry.
• Flowering Stage: Water less frequently to encourage deeper root growth and prevent excess humidity around the buds.

Striking the right balance is key. Overwatering can drown the roots and lead to problems like root rot, while underwatering leaves your plant stressed and thirsty. Look for these signs:

• Overwatering: Leaves that are wilting despite moist soil, a persistent musty smell from the roots, and discolored leaves (often yellowing from excess water).
• Underwatering: Dry, crispy leaves and soil that pull away from the edges of the pot. Your plant might also show signs of stress with slower growth.

Always check the soil moisture before watering. Use a moisture meter or simply stick your finger about an inch into the soil; if it feels dry, it’s time to water.

Each growth stage demands a slightly different watering approach:

• Seedling Stage: Keep the soil consistently moist but not saturated. Mist the soil surface lightly or use a spray bottle to maintain humidity.
• Vegetative Stage: As your plant grows, switch to a deeper watering method. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Depending on your environment, watering every 2-3 days is typical.
• Flowering Stage: Reduce the frequency of watering to encourage root development. Overly wet conditions during flowering can promote mold, so aim for watering every 3-4 days, depending on the ambient temperature and humidity.

Proper drainage is essential to prevent waterlogged soil, which can suffocate roots. Ensure your pots have drainage holes and use a well-draining soil mix. Equally important is maintaining the right pH balance in your water—ideally between 6.0 and 7.0 for soil grows. Adjusting the pH of your water can make nutrients more available to your plant and prevent common issues like nutrient lockout.

Remember, every time you water your plant, you’re not just hydrating it—you’re setting the stage for healthy nutrient uptake and robust growth.

Just like any other plant, cannabis needs a balanced diet to thrive. From nitrogen to phosphorus, each nutrient plays a specific role in growth, and understanding the feeding schedule for each stage of development is critical.

Cannabis plants require a blend of macronutrients and micronutrients for optimum growth:

• Nitrogen (N): Crucial for vegetative growth, nitrogen supports leaf and stem development. It’s the building block for chlorophyll, which fuels photosynthesis.
• Phosphorus (P): Vital for energy transfer and root development, phosphorus also helps with flower formation during the blooming stage.
• Potassium (K): Important for overall plant health, potassium aids in water regulation and improves the plant’s resistance to diseases.
• Micronutrients: Elements like calcium, magnesium, and iron are necessary in smaller amounts but are no less essential. They ensure proper cell structure, enzyme activity, and overall plant resilience.

A tailored feeding schedule is key to providing the right nutrients at the right time:

• Seedling Stage: In this early phase, cannabis plants need minimal nutrients. Overfeeding can burn delicate roots. Use a diluted, balanced nutrient mix designed for seedlings.
• Vegetative Stage: As growth accelerates, increase nutrient concentrations. Look for fertilizers rich in nitrogen, as this is when the plant is focused on building leaves and stems. Feeding once every 7 to 10 days is typically sufficient.
• Flowering Stage: During flowering, the plant’s nutrient needs shift. It requires more phosphorus and potassium to support bud formation. Reduce nitrogen to avoid overgrowth of foliage, which can detract from flower development. Feeding during this stage might occur every 10-14 days.

There’s an ongoing debate in the cannabis community about whether to use organic or synthetic nutrients:

• Organic Nutrients: Derived from natural sources like compost, fish emulsion, or worm castings, organic nutrients improve soil health and microbial activity. They release nutrients slowly over time, reducing the risk of nutrient burn.
• Synthetic Nutrients: Often more concentrated and easier to measure, synthetic fertilizers provide precise nutrient ratios. They’re particularly useful for growers who need to correct specific deficiencies quickly. However, overuse can lead to a buildup of salts in the soil.

The best approach might be a balanced one—using organic inputs as a base and supplementing with synthetic nutrients when necessary.

Even the best care can run into hiccups if the plant isn’t getting the right nutrients. Watch out for these common signs of deficiencies:

• Yellowing Leaves: Often an indicator of nitrogen deficiency, especially if the lower leaves start yellowing first.
• Slow Growth: A general slowdown in growth might suggest a lack of one or more key nutrients.
• Discoloration: Unusual color changes in leaves, such as a purplish tint, could indicate a phosphorus deficiency, while brown tips might signal potassium issues.

Regular monitoring and periodic soil tests can help you dial in your nutrient regimen and avoid these common pitfalls.

Cannabis plants are like unruly teenagers—they often need a little guidance to reach their full potential. Pruning and training are techniques that not only improve the aesthetic of your grow but also enhance light exposure and airflow, preventing mold and pests.

Let’s explore the best practices for pruning and training your weed plant.

Pruning involves removing excess foliage, particularly fan leaves that block light from reaching the lower parts of the plant. Here’s why it’s beneficial:

• Improved Airflow: Removing unnecessary leaves helps increase airflow around the plant, reducing the risk of mold and mildew—especially crucial if you’re fighting issues like powdery mold on cannabis.
• Better Light Penetration: Trimming back dense growth ensures that light reaches all parts of the plant, leading to more uniform growth and higher yields.
• Enhanced Energy Focus: By removing non-essential parts, the plant can redirect its energy toward producing more potent buds rather than maintaining surplus foliage.

Proper pruning is an art. Here are some techniques to get the best results:

• Trimming Fan Leaves: Use sharp, sanitized scissors or pruning shears to carefully remove leaves that are shading the bud sites. Be sure to leave enough foliage to support the plant’s overall health.
• Training Branches: Techniques like low-stress training (LST) involve gently bending and tying down branches to encourage horizontal growth. This method not only maximizes light exposure but also leads to a more even canopy.
• Topping: Topping involves cutting off the main growing tip to encourage the growth of two new colas instead of one. This technique is best done during the vegetative stage and can lead to bushier plants and more abundant yields.

• Seedling and Early Vegetative: Minimal pruning is needed—focus on removing any damaged or yellowing leaves.
• Mid-Vegetative Stage: This is the ideal time for more intensive pruning and training. Start with topping and low-stress training to shape your plant early on.
• Late Vegetative/Early Flowering: Avoid heavy pruning at this stage to prevent stress. Instead, focus on removing only the most obstructive leaves.

Pruning and training may seem intimidating at first, but with practice, they become indispensable tools in your cannabis growing guide.

Even the best-cared-for plants can fall prey to pests and mold. Cannabis growing requires vigilance, especially when issues like powdery mold on cannabis or infestations by spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies arise. In this section, we cover effective, natural methods for pest prevention and mold control to keep your plant healthy and thriving.

• Spider Mites: Tiny but mighty, spider mites can cause significant damage if left unchecked. They often leave behind fine webs and stippled leaves. Regularly inspect your plants and use a gentle spray of water or insecticidal soap to dislodge them.
• Aphids: These small, sap-sucking insects can weaken your plant and spread diseases. Introducing natural predators like ladybugs or using neem oil can help keep aphid populations under control.
• Whiteflies: Whiteflies can be a nuisance, especially in warmer climates. Sticky traps and natural repellents are effective in reducing their numbers.

Mold, particularly powdery mold on cannabis, is a common challenge, especially in humid environments. Here are some preventive measures:

• Proper Airflow: Ensure your grow space is well-ventilated. Use fans to circulate air and dehumidifiers if necessary.
• Avoid Overwatering: Excess moisture can create the perfect environment for mold. Stick to your watering schedule and allow the soil to dry out appropriately between waterings.
• Regular Pruning: As mentioned earlier, trimming excess foliage not only improves light penetration but also helps reduce humidity around your buds.
• Clean Environment: Keep your grow space clean and free of plant debris, which can harbor mold spores.

Using safe pesticides or natural remedies can be both effective and eco-friendly. Consider these methods:

• Neem Oil: A popular choice for cannabis growing supplies, neem oil acts as a natural insect repellent and antifungal agent.
• Companion Planting: Planting herbs like basil or marigold near your cannabis can help repel pests naturally.
• Insecticidal Soap: A gentle yet effective solution, insecticidal soap can help eliminate pests without harming your plant or beneficial insects.

Early detection is critical. Ther’s potential your plant can be saved! Look for:

• Discolored Leaves: Yellowing or browning can indicate pest damage or disease.
• Spots and Lesions: Unusual spots may be early signs of a fungal infection.
• Stunted Growth: A sudden halt in growth could be a sign that something isn’t right.

Prompt intervention, such as adjusting environmental conditions or applying natural remedies, can often save your crop from serious damage.

Even with the best care, every weed plant may encounter some issues. This section provides practical tips for troubleshooting common problems like droopy or yellowing leaves and making adjustments to lighting, temperature, and humidity.

When weed plant leaves are turning yellow or drooping, it’s a clear signal that your plant is stressed. Here are some troubleshooting tips:

• Assess Your Watering Routine: Both overwatering and underwatering can cause droopy leaves. Check your soil moisture and adjust your watering schedule as needed.
• Check for Nutrient Deficiencies: Yellow leaves might indicate a lack of nitrogen, while other discolorations could point to deficiencies in micronutrients. Adjust your feeding schedule accordingly.
• Temperature and Humidity: Extreme heat or high humidity can stress your plant, leading to yellowing. Ensure that your grow area maintains a stable environment that suits cannabis growing.

A stalled or weak plant may be suffering from a variety of issues. Consider these steps:

• Lighting Adjustments: Ensure your plant is receiving adequate light. Both indoor and outdoor cannabis growing require optimal lighting conditions. If indoors, consider supplementing with additional grow lights.
• Soil Quality: Poor soil can hinder growth. Check that your soil mix is well-draining and rich in organic matter.
• Pest and Mold Checks: Sometimes, hidden pests or mold can weaken your plant. Regularly inspect for any signs of infestation or infection.
• Root Health: Healthy roots are critical. If your plant appears weak, it may be suffering from root rot or other issues. Repotting into fresh, well-aerated soil can sometimes remedy this problem.

Your plant’s environment plays a huge role in its overall health. Here’s what to consider:

• Lighting: For indoor cannabis growing, the right balance of light intensity and duration is crucial. Ensure your grow lights are at the proper distance to avoid burning the plant or causing etiolation.
• Temperature: Cannabis plants prefer temperatures between 70°F and 85°F during the day, with a slight drop at night. Extreme temperature fluctuations can stress the plant.
• Humidity: Seedlings and young plants generally benefit from higher humidity (around 60-70%), while mature plants, particularly during flowering, do best with lower humidity (40-50%) to prevent mold.

Here are some frequently asked questions that can help clarify common concerns:

Q: How often should I water my cannabis plant?
A: Watering frequency depends on your plant’s stage and environment. Generally, water seedlings lightly every day or two, while mature plants may need watering every 2-3 days. Always check the soil moisture before watering.

Q: What are the signs of nutrient deficiency in cannabis?
A: Look for yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or discoloration. Each nutrient deficiency has its own set of symptoms—nitrogen deficiency often shows as yellowing of lower leaves, while phosphorus deficiency might lead to purple hues on the plant.

Q: How do I prevent powdery mold on cannabis?
A: Maintain good airflow, avoid overwatering, and remove excess foliage to reduce humidity around your buds. Using natural antifungal remedies like neem oil can also help.

Q: Is organic or synthetic nutrient feeding better?
A: Both have their pros and cons. Organic nutrients improve soil health and release slowly, whereas synthetic nutrients offer precision. Many growers find that a blend of both works best.

Q: What is the best way to train my cannabis plant for better yields?
A: Techniques like low-stress training (LST) and topping during the vegetative stage can promote a more even canopy, improving light exposure and overall yield.

Taking care of a weed plant isn’t just about following a strict regimen—it’s about nurturing a living organism that rewards your efforts with impressive growth and bountiful harvests. Regular maintenance, from proper watering and feeding to diligent pest prevention and environmental adjustments, plays a huge role in the success of your cannabis cultivation.

Remember, small mistakes can lead to plant stress, poor yields, or even plant death. By staying proactive, monitoring your plants daily, and being willing to adjust your techniques, you ensure that your cannabis remains healthy and vigorous. 

For more information on growing safely and effectively, check out the guidelines provided by Health Canada here.