Unlocking the potential of autoflowers is simple once you master a few basic principles. Our guide, “How to Grow Autoflowers Outdoors”, offers step-by-step instructions on successfully cultivating these fast, space saving plants.
We’ll cover selecting the right strain for your climate, preparing the perfect soil mix, mastering the feeding schedule, and dealing with pesky pests and diseases.
The pros and cons of growing autoflowers outside
Despite how easy autoflowers are to cultivate and how fast they grow, they do have their drawbacks and may not always be the right choice for outdoor growing. Let’s weigh up the benefits and drawbacks of growing autoflowers outside.
Pros:
- Natural Environment: Autoflowers can thrive in the great outdoors, utilizing sunlight, a natural and powerful light source.
- Cost-Effective: Outdoor cultivation significantly cuts down costs associated with artificial lighting, ventilation systems, and high energy bills from indoor grow rooms.
- Space-Saving: Autoflowers are compact plants, making them ideal for smaller outdoor spaces or even greenhouses.
- Fast Harvests: With shorter grow cycles, autoflowers can offer multiple harvests in one outdoor growing season.
- Resilient: Autoflowers contain the ruderalis genetics which means they are well suited to handling colder weather.
Cons:
- Weather Dependency: Outdoor plants are at the mercy of Mother Nature. Even though autoflowers are resilient to colder weather, they will still suffer if it becomes to cold or windy.
- Pests and Diseases: Outdoor growing exposes plants to pests and diseases, requiring vigilant monitoring.
- Lower THC Levels: Autoflowers usually contain less THC compared to their photoperiod counterparts, which might be a concern for some growers.
- Limited Yield: While autoflowers mature quickly, their yield per plant is generally lower than traditional strains and if you have plenty of space outside then you may as well grow a larger yielding photoperiod.
What is the ideal climate for growing autoflowers outdoors?
Autoflowers prefer a moderately warm climate, with temperatures ranging from 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. However, they can tolerate colder conditions, still surviving at temperatures as low as 45 degrees Fahrenheit.
Two key factors come into play with outdoor cultivation: sunlight and humidity. Autoflowers need plenty of direct sunlight to flourish, ideally around 14-18 hours a day. Consistent sunlight boosts photosynthesis, promoting robust growth and maximum yields.
Humidity also affects plant health. While autoflowers can endure a wide range, they grow best with relative humidity levels around 40-70%. Lower levels can stress the plants, leading to slow growth, while higher humidity can invite mold and disease.
Lastly, consider the wind. Gentle breezes can strengthen plant stems, but excessive wind can be damaging. Protection measures, like windbreaks, may be necessary in wind-prone areas.
What are the best types of autoflower for outdoor growing?
Choosing the right autoflower strain is vital for a successful outdoor grow. The best strain for your grow depends on your local climate. Here are three tried-and-true options known for their robustness and resilience.
Northern Lights Auto
This iconic strain is recognized for its resilience to cold weather conditions. Its compact size makes it discreet for outdoor cultivation. Northern Lights Auto is loved for its sweet taste and relaxing effects.
Amnesia Haze Auto
If you live in a sunnier, warmer climate, this strain is perfect. Amnesia Haze Auto enjoys lots of sunlight and can yield impressive harvests in the right conditions. Expect an uplifting high and citrusy flavor profile.
Blueberry Auto
A hardy strain known for its vibrant colors and fruity aroma, Blueberry Auto can withstand cooler climates. Its stress resistance and compact growth make it ideal for outdoor growers.
Remember, what works for one grower might not work for another. Experiment with different strains, learn from each grow, and you’ll soon find your own favorite autoflowers to cultivate outdoors.
Tips for growing autoflowers outside
Climate and weather
Pay close attention to your local climate and weather patterns. Autoflowers perform best between 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit, although they can tolerate colder conditions. They require ample sunlight and moderate humidity, so ensure your outdoor setup can provide this.
What are the best outdoor pots?
When it comes to pots, bigger is better, and smart pots take the top spot. These fabric containers provide excellent aeration, helping your autoflowers develop a robust root system. Plus, they prevent overwatering with superb drainage, ensuring your plants don’t sit in waterlogged soil.
Check the soil
If you’re using garden soil, conduct a pH test to ensure it falls in the 6.0-7.0 range, optimal for nutrient absorption. The soil should drain well and be rich in organic matter. Amendments like worm castings or compost can enhance soil fertility.
Location
Choose a location that receives plenty of sunlight throughout the day. Protect your plants from strong winds, using windbreaks if necessary. Always be vigilant for signs of pests or disease, which can spread quickly in an outdoor grow.
Prevent pests
Preventing pests starts with a clean growing environment. Remove dead plant material and regularly inspect your plants for signs of infestation. Natural deterrents like neem oil can be very effective. In some cases, introducing beneficial insects, like ladybugs, can help control pest populations.
How to increase autoflower yields outdoors
Increasing yields involves optimizing every aspect of your grow. Provide ample light, water correctly, and feed your plants a balanced nutrient mix. Proper training techniques, like Low Stress Training (LST), can increase sunlight exposure and thereby boost yields. Regular care and attention are the key ingredients to maximizing your autoflower harvest.
Outdoor Growing FAQ
How Much Light do Autoflowers Need Outside?
Autoflowers thrive on abundant sunlight. Ideally, they should receive around 14 to 18 hours of direct light each day for optimal growth and yield.
How Much do Autoflowers Growing Outdoors Yield?
Yield varies depending on strain, care, and environmental conditions. However, as a general rule, outdoor autoflowers can yield between 1 to 5 ounces per plant.
How Tall do Autoflowers Get Outdoors?
While autoflowers are compact compared to traditional strains, their outdoor height can range from 1 to 4 feet. Some strains can even reach up to 5 feet if grown under optimal conditions.
How Fast do Autoflowers Grow Outside?
Autoflowers are known for their speed. Most strains transition from seed to harvest in 8 to 10 weeks, although some faster varieties can finish in just 7 weeks.
Do Outdoor Autoflowers Need Nutrients?
Yes, like all plants, autoflowers need nutrients to grow. A balanced feed of Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium, plus trace elements, is essential. However, autoflowers require less feeding compared to photoperiod plants.
Can I Move an Autoflower from Inside to Outside?
Yes, you can move autoflowers outside, provided the transition is done carefully to avoid shock. Ensure the outdoor conditions are suitable and introduce them gradually to their new environment.
What is the Easiest Autoflower Strain to Grow Outdoors?
Northern Lights Auto is one of the easiest autoflower strains to grow outdoors. It’s known for its resilience and adaptability to different climates, making it a good choice for beginners.
With the right knowledge, growing autoflowers outdoors becomes a rewarding endeavor. This guide has covered the basics, from choosing the right strain to yield-boosting tips and pest prevention.
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