Cannabis Basics & Plant Anatomy
Flowering Stage
The flowering stage is the phase of a cannabis plant’s life when it stops focusing on leaf growth and begins producing flowers, also called buds. This stage is when cannabinoids, terpenes, and resin develop.
When Flowering Begins
The flowering stage is the reproductive phase of the cannabis plant’s life cycle. It begins when the plant receives signals to stop vegetative growth and start forming flowers. Indoors, this signal is created by changing the light schedule to shorter days, most commonly 12 hours of light and 12 hours of darkness. Outdoors, flowering begins naturally as daylight hours shorten in late summer and early fall. In simple terms, the flowering stage is when the plant shifts from growing its body to making buds.
How Light Triggers Flower Production
Biologically, flowering is controlled by photoperiodism (a plant’s response to changes in day length). When nights become long enough, cannabis plants activate hormones that trigger flower development. Female plants produce pistillate flowers, which are rich in cannabinoids and terpenes. Male plants produce pollen sacs, which release pollen for reproduction. If female plants remain unpollinated, they focus energy on resin and cannabinoid production instead of seed formation.
Scientific Understanding of Flowering
The scientific study of flowering dates back centuries, with major breakthroughs occurring in the 18th and 19th centuries as botanists explored how light cycles influence plant reproduction. These discoveries laid the foundation for modern indoor growing techniques that allow growers to precisely control flowering timing.
Stages Within the Flowering Phase
In cannabis cultivation, the flowering stage is typically divided into early, mid, and late flowering. Early flowering involves stretch, where plants grow taller while forming early bud sites. Mid flowering is when buds swell and resin production increases. Late flowering is the ripening phase, when cannabinoids peak and aromas become stronger.
Nutrient and Environmental Changes
During flowering, nutrient needs change. Plants require less nitrogen and more phosphorus and potassium, which support flower development and energy transfer. Environmental control becomes critical, as excess heat, humidity, or light stress can reduce bud quality or cause issues like foxtailing or mold.
Common Flowering Stage Problems
Common challenges during the flowering stage include nutrient imbalances, light leaks, heat stress, and humidity-related problems. Careful monitoring and consistent conditions help ensure dense, high-quality buds.
Flowering and Harvest Readiness
The flowering stage ends at harvest, when flowers have reached peak maturity. How well this stage is managed has a direct impact on yield, potency, flavor, and overall plant quality.
Related terms:
Vegetative Stage, Flower Stretch, Bud Development, Photoperiod, Pistils, Trichomes, Harvest Timing, and Cannabinoid Production
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