Plant Flowering Stage
Flowering
The flowering stage marks the shift from vegetative development to fruit and flower production. It usually lasts between 8–16 weeks depending on the crop. Success here relies on correct lighting, nutrient management, and environmental stability.
Light Cycle
Switching to a 12 hours on / 12 hours off cycle is essential. This tricks plants into thinking autumn has arrived, signalling them to bloom. Consistency is key—irregular light exposure can stress plants and interrupt flowering.
Feeding for Bloom
Hydroponic setups should switch from grow nutrients to a bloom formula rich in phosphorus and potassium. Plants grown in inert media should also receive bloom feeds. To prevent deficiencies, gradually increase bloom nutrients and consider using boosters for enhanced flower development.
Harvesting
Harvesting is the reward for your effort. There are several approaches:
- Gradual Harvest: Pick ripe fruits or flowers first, allowing others more time to mature. This helps maximise overall yield.
- Two-Stage Harvest: Collect the bulk of produce, then leave smaller, immature fruits to ripen further.
- All-in-One Harvest: Remove everything at once—simpler but less efficient if some fruits are underdeveloped.
Always use clean, sharp tools to avoid damaging the plant.
Key Considerations for Flowering
Pollination
Some plants require manual pollination. Gently brush flowers with your finger or a soft brush to mimic natural pollination and ensure fruit set.
Feeds
Introduce bloom nutrients and PK boosters gradually. Reducing nitrogen and increasing phosphorus and potassium helps direct energy into flower and fruit production. Lowering nutrient strength slightly in the final 2–3 weeks can also improve quality at harvest.
Environment
Maintain a grow room temperature of 24–28°C. During flowering, reduce humidity to 35–50% RH to prevent mould and encourage better bud development. Adequate CO₂ supply and stable airflow will further boost growth and yields.
Lighting
Plants respond best to light in the red and orange spectrum during flowering, as it stimulates strong fruit and flower production. Traditional HPS lamps were highly highly effective, but many growers now use full-spectrum LED lighting to balance veg and bloom needs.
LED grow lights excel in flowering thanks to their targeted spectrum output. Quality LEDs provide intense red light while balancing blue and white for healthy overall growth. They also reduce heat compared to HID lamps, allowing fixtures to be placed closer to the canopy for improved penetration. Full-spectrum LEDs can intensify flavour, aroma, and flower density, while being more energy-efficient in the long run.
By fine-tuning these elements, you ensure your plants transition smoothly into flowering and deliver a bountiful, high-quality harvest.
