Want a trouble-free grow? Discover the most common mistakes and learn how to avoid them for a successful harvest!
Growing is a craft that can throw challenges at beginners and seasoned growers alike. Mistakes can cost you a harvest, but the good news is that most problems are easy to fix. Here are the 10 most common growing mistakes and how to avoid them.
1. Overwatering or underwatering
Problem: Roots need a balance between oxygen and water. Overwatering leads to root rot, while underwatering stunts growth.
Solution: Stick a finger into the top layer of soil and only water once it feels dry. A moisture meter can help you be more precise.
2. Not checking pH
Problem: The wrong pH blocks the uptake of essential nutrients.
Solution: Test the pH of your water and nutrient solution regularly with a pH meter. The ideal range is between 5.5 and 6.5 depending on your setup: towards the lower end for hydro and coco, towards the higher end for soil.
3. Wrong lighting
Problem: Plants need the right amount and intensity of light to thrive.
Solution: Use quality LED grow lights or HPS grow lights and keep them at the right distance from your plants. An 18/6 light schedule during veg and 12/12 during flowering works best for most short-day plants.
4. Poor air circulation
Problem: A lack of fresh air can lead to mould and disease.
Solution: Install fans and a proper extraction system to refresh the air and keep temperatures stable.
5. Overfeeding
Problem: Too many nutrients can cause nutrient burn and salt build-up.
Solution: Stick to the recommended dosage and flush your growing medium regularly with clean water to wash out excess salts.
6. Unstable temperature and humidity
Problem: Temperatures that are too high or too low, and swings in humidity, can slow growth and stress your plants.
Solution: Aim for a stable environment with temperatures between 20 and 26 °C and humidity between 40 and 60%, depending on the growth stage.
7. Pests and mould
Problem: Insects such as spider mites and aphids, as well as mould, can ruin your harvest.
Solution: Inspect your plants regularly and use natural controls such as neem oil or predatory mites to deal with pests.
8. Wrong growing medium or pots
Problem: Poor drainage can cause root problems.
Solution: Use an airy medium such as coco or a free-draining potting soil, for example in a fabric pot. Make sure rigid pots have drainage holes.
9. Harvesting at the wrong time
Problem: Harvesting too early or too late can reduce quality and yield.
Solution: Check your plants closely and harvest when the flowers have matured and show the ripeness signs given by the breeder or seed supplier, such as pistils that have changed colour.
10. Not enough patience
Problem: Rushed decisions can throw your grow off track.
Solution: Take your time, keep a grow diary and learn from past runs to sharpen your technique.
Avoid these common mistakes and you're well on your way to a healthier, more productive grow.
