From Seedling to Bud: A Guide to Understanding Nutrient Requirements for Cannabis Plants

If you look closely, you’ll see the trichomes on developing buds. Similar to cat-claws, these jelly-filled structures are filled with secondary metabolites – terpenes, cannabinoids and more – that give cannabis its powerful properties. To ensure your buds are filled to the brim, you must be familiar with what nutrients feed into their development.

Start with label and product directions; though nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium are the three primary macronutrients, most labels overstate the actual amount available to the roots.

Next, take into account the natural mineral content of your water source; contact your local municipal government or check your well-water. Reverse osmosis can also be a great solution.

Nutritional requirements change as flowers mature; while nitrogen is great for young seedlings, the secondary metabolism process calls for moderate amounts of N and P when buds are closer to fullness.

Take care to avoid over-fertilization, as this can not only stunt trichome growth but could result in straw-like flavor and low cannabinoid and terpene content. Careful attention and understanding of the relationship between your soil, water and nutrients can help ensure high quality buds.