Growing cannabis is a rewarding experience, but even seasoned growers make mistakes. As a beginner, it’s easy to overlook small details that can have a big impact on your plants. To help you grow with confidence, here are the most common mistakes and how to avoid them.
1️) Overwatering 💧
One of the biggest mistakes new growers make is overwatering their plants. While cannabis needs water to thrive, too much of it can lead to root rot, mold, and stunted growth.
✅ How to Avoid It:
- Water only when the top 2-3 cm of soil feel dry.
- Use pots with drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating.
- Start with small amounts and adjust based on plant needs.
2️) Poor Light Positioning ☀️
Light is crucial for cannabis growth, but improper light placement can cause stretching, weak stems, and poor yields.
✅ How to Avoid It:
- Keep grow lights at an appropriate distance (check manufacturer recommendations).
- Ensure even light distribution to prevent uneven growth.
- If growing outdoors, place plants where they get at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day.
3️) Overfeeding Nutrients 🧪
More nutrients don’t always mean better growth. Overfeeding can cause nutrient burn, making leaves appear crispy or discolored.
✅ How to Avoid It:
- Start with a light feeding schedule and increase gradually.
- Watch for signs of nutrient burn (yellow/brown leaf tips) and adjust accordingly.
- Use organic amendments for a more slow-release nutrient supply.
4️) Ignoring Airflow & Humidity 🌬️
Poor ventilation and high humidity can lead to mold, pests, and weak plants.
✅ How to Avoid It:
- Indoors, use fans to maintain air circulation.
- Keep humidity at 40-60% to prevent mold growth.
- Outdoors, avoid planting in areas with poor airflow or heavy shade.
- Keep a clean working environment and regularly clean your tools.
5️) Harvesting Too Early ⏳
It’s tempting to harvest early, but cutting too soon can significantly reduce potency and yield.
✅ How to Avoid It:
- Wait until at least 60-70% of the pistils have darkened.
- Use a magnifier to check trichomes; cloudy and amber trichomes signal peak potency.
- Be patient—good things take time!
Learn from Every Grow!
Mistakes happen, but every cycle is an opportunity to improve. The more you observe and adjust, the better your results will be. Follow Jonny’s Farmer Wisdom Series for more growing tips and community insights.
— Jonny
