Welcome to the fascinating world of indoor cannabis cultivation! Whether you’re a medical patient seeking a consistent supply of therapeutic herbs or a cannabis enthusiast eager to explore the nuances of different strains, growing marijuana indoors offers an exciting journey filled with learning and discovery. In this extensive guide, we’ll delve deep into the intricacies of cultivating cannabis indoors, covering every aspect from seedling to harvest, and equipping you with the knowledge and skills needed to grow high-quality buds in the comfort of your own home.

                     Getting Started: Understanding the Basics

• • Know the Legal Landscape: Before embarking on your growing journey, familiarize yourself with the laws and regulations governing cannabis cultivation in your region.
  • To familiarize yourself with cannabis laws in your state, you can visit official government websites or reputable legal resources that provide up-to-date information on marijuana regulations. Here are some recommended steps and websites to help you navigate cannabis laws in your state:
    1. State Government Website: Visit the official website of your state’s government and navigate to the section dedicated to cannabis laws, regulations, or the department responsible for overseeing marijuana policies. This is often found within departments such as the Department of Health, Department of Revenue, or a specific cannabis regulatory agency.A really good website I found is
       

       https://norml.org/laws/

       They show a map of the united states and you can click on each state to find out your laws. Pretty convenient. For example in my home state of Michigan, under 12 plants for personal use is legal, however it changes the more plants you have in your home. Shockingly, as soon as you have under 20 plants (not for personal use) you can face 4 years jail time catching a felony charge and a $20,000 Max fine!

    2. Medical Marijuana Program Websites: If your state has a medical marijuana program, the program’s website is an excellent resource for information on qualifying conditions, patient registration, caregiver requirements, dispensary locations, and legal protections for medical cannabis patients.
    3. Legalization Advocacy Groups: Organizations advocating for cannabis legalization often provide comprehensive resources on state-specific laws, including summaries of legislation, regulatory updates, and guidance on navigating legal cannabis markets. Examples include the Marijuana Policy Project (MPP) and the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML).
    4. Cannabis News Outlets: Stay informed about developments in cannabis policy through reputable cannabis news websites and publications. These sources often cover legislative updates, regulatory changes, and legal challenges related to marijuana laws at the state and federal levels.
    5. Local Government Websites: In addition to state laws, be aware of any local ordinances or regulations that may impact cannabis cultivation, distribution, or consumption in your city or county. Local government websites and municipal codes can provide information on zoning restrictions, business licensing requirements, and other local regulations.

    By utilizing these resources, you can gain a comprehensive understanding of cannabis laws in your state, including provisions related to medical and recreational use, possession limits, cultivation rules, dispensary licensing, taxation, and more. Always ensure that you are referencing the most current and accurate information from reliable sources to stay compliant with applicable laws and regulations to make sure you can have a successful grow!

For a small cannabis grow, you’ll need several essential items to ensure successful cultivation. Here’s a comprehensive list of everything you need:

Grow Space: Determine where you’ll be growing your cannabis plants. This could be a small closet, spare room, grow tent, or dedicated indoor grow space.

Lighting: Choose an appropriate lighting setup for your grow space. For a small grow, LED grow lights are efficient and effective. Make sure to select lights with the right spectrum and intensity for each stage of growth. We’ll get into our choice of light for a small grow down below 🙂

Ventilation: Install fans for air circulation and exhaust to remove heat and humidity from your grow space. A small inline fan and carbon filter can help control odors if necessary.

Growing Medium: Select a suitable growing medium for your plants, such as soil, coco coir, or hydroponic substrate. Ensure good drainage and aeration for healthy root development.

Containers or Pots: Fabric pots or plastic containers are commonly used for growing cannabis. Choose pots of appropriate size for your plants and growing medium.

Nutrients: Cannabis plants require essential nutrients for healthy growth. Choose high-quality fertilizers or nutrient solutions formulated for cannabis and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.

pH Testing Kit: Monitor and adjust the pH of your water and nutrient solution to ensure optimal nutrient uptake by the plants. pH testing kits or pH meters are essential for maintaining proper pH levels.

Watering Supplies: Have watering cans, spray bottles, or a small watering system on hand to provide water and nutrients to your plants as needed. Ensure that your water source is clean and free from contaminants.

Temperature and Humidity Monitor: Keep track of temperature and humidity levels in your grow space using a thermometer and hygrometer. Aim for temperature ranges of 70-85°F (21-29°C) and humidity levels of 40-60% during the vegetative stage and 40-50% during the flowering stage.

Training Tools (Optional): Consider using training techniques such as topping, low-stress training (LST), or defoliation to shape and optimize plant growth. Tools like plant ties, scissors, and stakes may be needed for training.

Pest and Disease Control: Have pest control measures in place, such as neem oil or insecticidal soap, to prevent and treat pest infestations. Keep your grow space clean and monitor plants regularly for signs of pests or diseases.

Harvesting and Drying Supplies: Plan ahead for harvesting and drying your cannabis buds. You’ll need sharp scissors or pruning shears for harvesting, as well as drying racks or screens and a well-ventilated area for drying.

By gathering these essential items, you’ll be well-equipped to start and maintain a successful small cannabis grow. Be sure to research and educate yourself on best practices for each stage of the growing process to ensure a healthy and bountiful harvest.

SO let’s begin 🙂

Choosing the right cannabis Strain (what seeds you get)

With countless varieties available, you should consider factors such as cannabinoid content, growth characteristics, and space limitations when selecting the perfect strain for your indoor garden. Below are some places where you can purchase seeds online. My recommendation is you go with the best sellers or cannabis cup winners.

1. 1. 1. ILGM (I Love Growing Marijuana): ILGM is a well-known seed bank that offers a variety of cannabis seeds, including feminized, autoflowering, and high-CBD strains. They provide discreet shipping and guaranteed delivery options for customers in the United States.Learn more about ILGM by clicking here:
         ILGM
      2. Crop King Seeds: Crop King Seeds is a trusted seed bank with a diverse selection of cannabis genetics, including popular strains and award-winning hybrids. They offer worldwide shipping, including to the United States, and prioritize customer privacy and satisfaction.Learn more about Crop King Seeds by clicking here:
         Crop King Seeds
      3. Seedsman: Seedsman is a reputable seed bank that features a vast catalog of cannabis seeds from renowned breeders and seed banks worldwide. They offer discreet shipping options and a seed-to-harvest guarantee for customers in the United States.Learn more about Seedsman seeds by clicking here:
         Seedsman
      4. MSNL (Marijuana Seeds NL): MSNL is a long-standing seed bank known for its extensive collection of premium cannabis seeds, including regular, feminized, and autoflowering varieties. They provide fast and discreet shipping to customers in the United States.Learn more about MSNL seeds by clicking here:
         MSNL
      5. True North Seed Bank: True North Seed Bank offers a diverse range of cannabis seeds from top breeders, with an emphasis on quality and reliability. They provide worldwide shipping, including to the United States, and discreet packaging for customer privacy.Learn more about True Norther Seed Bank by clicking here:
         True North Seed Bank
      6. Attitude Seed Bank: The Attitude Seed Bank is a well-established online retailer that offers a broad selection of cannabis seeds from leading breeders and seed banks. They offer discreet shipping and a delivery guarantee for customers in the United States.Learn more about Attitude Seed Bank by clicking here:
         Attitude Seed Bank
      7. Seed Supreme: Seed Supreme is a reputable seed bank that offers a comprehensive selection of cannabis seeds, including regular, feminized, and autoflowering strains. They provide worldwide shipping, including to the United States, and discreet packaging for customer privacy.Learn more about Seed Supreme by clicking here:
         Seed Supreme
      8. Pacific Seed Bank: Pacific Seed Bank is a California-based seed bank that offers a wide range of cannabis seeds, including high-CBD strains and popular hybrids. They provide discreet shipping and guaranteed delivery options for customers in the United States.Learn more about Pacific Seed Bank by clicking here:
         Pacific Seed Bank

On these sites, you will find there are several different types of marijuana seed types available! They each have their own unique characteristics and advantages. Below I explain the differences 🙂

Regular Seeds: Regular seeds are the most basic and natural form of cannabis seeds. They have a 50/50 chance of developing into male or female plants, making them ideal for breeding purposes or for growers who prefer to work with the plant’s natural genetic variability.

Feminized Seeds: Feminized seeds are selectively bred to produce only female plants, eliminating the need to identify and remove male plants during the growing process. This ensures that all plants will produce buds, making feminized seeds popular among growers looking to maximize their yield.

Autoflowering Seeds: Autoflowering seeds contain genetics from the Cannabis ruderalis species, which allows the plants to automatically transition from the vegetative stage to the flowering stage without changes in light cycles. This makes autoflowering seeds ideal for growers looking for a fast-growing, low-maintenance option that doesn’t require precise light control. (“My Best Grow” recommended)

Photoperiod Seeds: Photoperiod seeds require a specific light cycle (usually 12 hours of light followed by 12 hours of darkness) to trigger the flowering stage. These seeds are preferred by growers who want more control over the growth cycle of their plants, allowing for longer vegetative periods and potentially larger yields.

High-CBD Seeds: High-CBD seeds are specifically bred to produce plants with higher levels of cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive compound known for its potential therapeutic effects. These seeds are popular among medical marijuana patients seeking relief from conditions such as chronic pain, inflammation, anxiety, and seizures.

High-THC Seeds: High-THC seeds are bred to produce plants with elevated levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound responsible for the euphoric “high” associated with marijuana use. These seeds are favored by recreational users seeking potent and intoxicating effects.

Hybrid Seeds: Hybrid seeds are created by crossing two or more distinct cannabis strains, resulting in offspring that exhibit a combination of traits from their parent plants. Hybrids can be bred for a wide range of characteristics, including flavor, aroma, potency, and growth characteristics.

When choosing marijuana seeds, consider factors such as desired cannabinoid profile, growth characteristics, flowering time, and intended use (medical or recreational). More than likely, you are not new to cannabis if you are looking up how to grow it, so just go with the most popular auto-flower strain for your first small grow 🙂

cannabis plant

Before making a purchase, I have to reiterate that it’s essential to research the laws and regulations governing the purchase and possession of cannabis seeds in your state. Additionally, consider factors such as seed quality, breeders’ reputation, shipping options, and customer reviews when selecting a seed bank. Always ensure that you are purchasing seeds from a reputable source to guarantee authenticity and quality.

Next we’ll dive into germinating your seeds (The first step!)

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to germinate marijuana seeds effectively:

    Gather Your Supplies:

• • Marijuana seeds (preferably auto-flower if this is your first grow)
  • Paper towels or coffee filters
  • Plate or tray

Distilled water or tap water that has been left to sit for 24 hours to dissipate chlorine

Prepare the Germination Medium:

Moisten a paper towel or coffee filter with water, ensuring it’s damp but not soaking wet.

Place the moistened paper towel or coffee filter on a plate or tray.

Prepare the Seeds:

Carefully select your marijuana seeds, ensuring they are mature and viable. Discard any damaged or immature seeds.

Place the seeds evenly spaced on the moistened paper towel or coffee filter, leaving some space between them.

Cover and Maintain Moisture:

Gently fold the paper towel or coffee filter over the seeds to cover them.

If necessary, lightly mist the paper towel or filter with water to maintain moisture, being careful not to oversaturate it.

Create a Warm, Dark Environment:

Place the plate or tray with the covered seeds in a warm, dark location, such as on top of a refrigerator or in a cupboard.

Avoid direct sunlight, as excessive heat can dry out the germination medium and damage the seeds.

Check for Germination:

• • Check the seeds daily to monitor their progress.
  • Seeds typically germinate within 24-72 hours, although some may take longer.
  • Look for the seeds to crack open and tiny white taproots to emerge from the seeds.
    

    check on your seeds!

Transplant Germinated Seeds:

• • Once the seeds have germinated and developed taproots that are at least 1/4 to 1/2 inch long, they are ready to be transplanted into your growing medium.
  • Use tweezers or your fingers to carefully transfer the germinated seeds to your growing medium, placing them taproot-down with the seed coat pointing upward.
  • Gently cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil or growing medium, being careful not to bury them too deep.

  • 

    germinated seed

       Provide Light and Water:

• • After the seeds germinate, you will be transplanting seedlings to a solo cup where you will provide gentle light and water to the newly planted seeds.

transfer the seedling to a solo cup

• • Use a spray bottle to mist the growing medium lightly, keeping it moist but not waterlogged.
  • Provide low-intensity light, such as fluorescent or LED grow lights, until the seedlings have developed their first set of true leaves.
  • after 1-2 weeks your seedling should have its first leaves at which point it’s time to transfer to a pot.

Seedling is now ready to be transferred to bigger pot

By following these steps, you can successfully germinate marijuana seeds and start your cannabis grow with healthy, vigorous seedlings ready for the vegetative stage. Remember to handle the seeds and seedlings with care to avoid damaging them during the germination process.

Okay, so you germinated your seeds, watched the seedling grow in a solo cup, now it’s time to transfer the young plant into soil and a bigger pot.

 POTS

When it comes to selecting fabric pots for indoor marijuana cultivation, there are several factors to consider, including durability, size, drainage, and air pruning capabilities. Here are some of the best fabric pots commonly used by indoor growers:

Smart Pots: Smart Pots are a popular choice among indoor cannabis cultivators. Made from a durable geotextile fabric, Smart Pots promote healthy root growth by allowing for air pruning, which prevents root circling and promotes root branching. They come in various sizes, from small containers for seedlings to large pots for mature plants.

VIVOSUN Fabric Pots: VIVOSUN Fabric Pots are made from heavy-duty non-woven fabric that promotes optimal root development and prevents root circling. These pots feature reinforced stitching and sturdy handles for easy handling. VIVOSUN offers a range of sizes to suit the needs of indoor cannabis growers. (“My Best Grow” recommended)

Vivosun fabric pots

Gro Pro Premium Fabric Pots: Gro Pro fabric pots are made from high-quality, breathable fabric that promotes air pruning and root health. These pots feature reinforced seams and handles for durability and ease of use. Gro Pro offers a variety of sizes to accommodate different plant sizes and growing setups.

When choosing fabric pots for indoor marijuana cultivation, consider factors such as size (We recommend 5 gallon pots for one plant) durability, drainage, and airflow to ensure optimal growing conditions for your plants. Additionally, investing in quality fabric pots can contribute to healthier root systems, increased yields, and overall better plant performance.

SOIL

Wonder Soil has a 4.5 rating on amazon with over 2000 Reviews! (Recommended)

Selecting the right soil for your cannabis plants is crucial for their overall health and growth. You’ll want a soil that provides essential nutrients, proper drainage, and a balanced pH level. Here are some considerations when choosing soil for your cannabis plants:

1. Potting Mix vs. Soil: While you can use regular garden soil for cannabis cultivation, it’s generally recommended to use a high-quality potting mix specifically formulated for container gardening. Potting mixes are lighter and offer better drainage, which helps prevent waterlogging and root rot.
2. Nutrient Content: Look for potting mixes that contain a balanced blend of organic materials, such as compost, peat moss, coco coir, and perlite or vermiculite. These materials provide essential nutrients and improve soil structure, promoting healthy root development and vigorous growth.
3. pH Level: Cannabis plants thrive in slightly acidic soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0. Choose a potting mix with a pH-balanced formulation or adjust the pH of your soil as needed using pH-adjusting products.
4. Pre-fertilized vs. Unfertilized: Some potting mixes come pre-fertilized with nutrients, which can be convenient for beginner growers. However, these mixes may contain synthetic fertilizers or high levels of nutrients that can be too strong for young seedlings. If using a pre-fertilized mix, consider diluting it with additional perlite or coco coir to reduce nutrient strength. Alternatively, you can opt for an unfertilized potting mix and supplement with organic fertilizers as needed throughout the grow cycle.
5. Organic vs. Synthetic: Organic potting mixes contain natural ingredients and beneficial microorganisms that promote soil health and microbial activity. They are free from synthetic chemicals and pesticides, making them a preferred choice for many organic growers. However, synthetic potting mixes may offer more precise control over nutrient levels and pH.
6. Moisture Retention: Choose a potting mix with good moisture retention properties to ensure that your cannabis plants have access to water between waterings. However, avoid soils that retain too much moisture, as this can lead to overwatering and root rot. Adding perlite or vermiculite to your potting mix can help improve drainage and prevent waterlogged soil.

Some popular brands of potting mixes that are commonly used for cannabis cultivation include FoxFarm Ocean Forest, Pro-Mix, Happy Frog, Roots Organics, and Coco Coir-based mixes like Wonder Soil, Canna Coco or Mother Earth Coco. Experimenting with different soil blends and amendments can help you find the best soil mix for your specific growing conditions and preferences.

Setting Up Your Grow Space.

We recommend growing in tents like the ones we have listed on this website under cheap grow tent kits. Creating an optimal environment with proper ventilation, lighting, and temperature control is crucial for success (and grow tents can help you do just that!).

The best tent size for a cannabis grow depends on various factors, including the number of plants, available space, growing technique, and personal preferences. Here are some common tent sizes along with considerations for each:

Small Tents (2′ x 2′ to 3′ x 3′):

1. • Suitable for beginners or growers with limited space.
   • Ideal for growing 1-4 small to medium-sized plants.
   • Compact size makes them easy to set up and manage.
   • Suitable for growers using techniques like SOG (Sea of Green) or SCROG (Screen of Green) to maximize space utilization.
   • We recommend the Vivosun 3×3 Tent on amazon with over 28,000 reviews.

1. Medium Tents (4′ x 4′ to 5′ x 5′):
   • Versatile size suitable for a wide range of grow setups.
   • Can accommodate 4-9 medium-sized plants or fewer larger plants.
   • Provides ample space for training techniques like LST (Low Stress Training) or topping.
   • Allows for efficient use of grow lights and ventilation equipment.

   • 

     5×5 tent

2. Large Tents (5′ x 9′ to 8′ x 8′ or larger):
   • Ideal for experienced growers or those with ample space.
   • Can accommodate 9-16 or more plants, depending on size and growing technique.
   • Provides plenty of room for larger plants to spread out and develop extensive root systems.
   • Allows for more advanced growing techniques such as main-lining or super cropping.

   • 

     Large Tent

When selecting a tent size for your cannabis grow, consider factors such as the number of plants you plan to grow, available space in your growing area, and your budget. It’s essential to ensure that the tent size allows for adequate spacing between plants to promote airflow and prevent overcrowding, which can lead to issues such as mold or pest infestations (Yuck!). Additionally, choose a tent size that accommodates your chosen growing technique and equipment, such as grow lights, fans, and carbon filters, while leaving room for easy access and maintenance.

For newbies looking to grow one – four plants, we recommend anything from a 2×2 to a 4×4 tent 🙂

So now you’ve properly cared for your cannabis plant, watched it grow from vegetative state to bloom state waited 6-12 weeks, given it a flush and now your plant is ready to harvest! Woo hoo! 🙂

Harvesting

Harvesting your cannabis plant is a crucial step in the cultivation process and requires careful timing and attention to detail to ensure the best possible results. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to harvest your cannabis plant:

1. Timing: Determine the optimal time to harvest your cannabis plant based on the desired effects and maturity of the buds. Most growers harvest when the majority of the trichomes (tiny resin glands) on the buds have turned milky white or amber in color, indicating peak cannabinoid and terpene content. Use a magnifying tool such as a jeweler’s loupe or a handheld microscope to inspect the trichomes closely.
2. Prepare Equipment: Before harvesting, gather all the necessary equipment, including sharp pruning shears or scissors, gloves, containers for storing harvested buds, and a clean, well-ventilated area for trimming.
   

   We recommend these best selling pruning shears. There’s a Lifetime warranty on these Fiskars!

3. Cutting: Using sharp pruning shears or scissors, carefully cut each branch of the cannabis plant near the main stem. Start with the lower branches and work your way up to the top of the plant. Be gentle to avoid damaging the buds and handle them carefully to preserve their trichomes.
4. Trimming: Once the branches are cut, trim away any large fan leaves and excess foliage from the branches. Leave smaller sugar leaves intact, as they contain trichomes and contribute to the potency and flavor of the buds. Some growers prefer to dry-trim their buds before curing, while others prefer to wet-trim immediately after harvesting. We recommend dry trimming!
5. Drying: Hang the trimmed branches upside down in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated area with a humidity level of around 50-60%. Use a drying rack or clothesline to hang the branches, ensuring that there is space between them for air circulation. Monitor the drying process closely and adjust humidity levels as needed to prevent mold or mildew.
   

   Hanging your buds to dry

   

   images from https://www.youtube.com/@MrCanucksGrowGuide.

6. Curing: After the buds have dried for 5-10 days (or until the smaller stems snap when bent), transfer them to glass jars or airtight containers for curing. Fill the jars with dried buds up to 3/4 full, leaving some room for air circulation. Store the jars in a cool, dark place and burp them daily to release excess moisture and prevent mold. Cure the buds for at least 2-4 weeks, or longer for optimal flavor, aroma, and potency.
   
   
7. Final Preparation: Once the buds are properly cured, they are ready for consumption. Remove any remaining stems or excess foliage and store the cured buds in airtight containers in a cool, dark place away from heat, light, and humidity.

So if you made it this far congratulations, you are now an expert on how to properly do a small grow in your grow tent. Thanks for reading. Prime Broccoli, out!

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