Photoperiod FAQs
Photoperiod seeds are a type of cannabis seed that relies on changes in light cycles to transition from the vegetative stage to the flowering stage. Unlike autoflower seeds, which begin flowering automatically based on age, photoperiod plants need a specific ratio of light to dark hours to signal the plant to start producing buds.
This characteristic makes photoperiod seeds a favorite among cannabis growers who want more control over the plant’s growth and yield potential, since they can manipulate the plant’s environment to achieve their ideal size, structure, and harvest time.
Growing feminized photoperiod seeds involves managing the light cycle carefully to maximize their growth and flowering potential. Start by germinating the seeds using a method like soaking in sterilized reverse osmosis water or placing them between damp paper towels until they sprout. Once planted, provide a nutrient-rich and well-draining medium to support healthy root development.
During the vegetative stage, photoperiod plants require 16-18 hours of light each day to encourage strong growth. When you’re ready to flower the plants, switch to a 12-hour light and 12-hour dark cycle, which mimics the natural shift from summer to fall. This change signals the plant to enter the flowering stage. Consistent light schedules, proper watering, and good airflow are key to ensuring healthy growth and maximizing yields.
The photoperiod light cycle refers to the amount of light and darkness a cannabis plant receives in a 24-hour period, which directly influences its growth stages. During the vegetative phase, photoperiod cannabis plants thrive with longer light cycles, typically between 16 to 18 hours of light, which promotes leaf and stem development.
To transition the plant from the vegetative stage to the flowering stage, the light cycle is reduced to 12 hours of light and 12 hours of complete darkness. This change replicates the natural progression of the seasons and triggers the plant to start flowering, allowing growers to control when the plant produces buds. The stability of this light cycle is crucial
— any interruptions can cause stress, potentially delaying flowering or reducing yield quality.
The time it takes for photoperiod plants to go from seed to harvest can vary depending on the strain, growing conditions, and desired plant size. Generally, the vegetative stage lasts 5 to 6 weeks, but some growers may extend this period to allow plants to grow larger and produce higher yields.
Once the light cycle is switched to 12/12, the flowering stage typically lasts another 8 to 10 weeks, although some cannabis strains may require more time to reach full maturity. Then, add 1-3 weeks for dry time and 2-4+ weeks for curing. On average, from seed to harvest, photoperiod cannabis plants take between 3 to 5 months.