One of the challenges of growing cannabis indoors is knowing how much water to feed your plants. In nature, plants have the advantage of natural rainfall and drainage and only need to be watered during drought conditions.
Watering your indoor plants too little or too much will stunt production, and water waste can drastically increase your overhead. So how do you get it right?
How Much Water Should You Add to Cannabis Plants?
A good standard to work with is one gallon of water per day for each pound of processed flower you expect to harvest from each plant. The finished weight will obviously change according to how long you allow your plants to veg before forcing flower, so adjust your water per plant accordingly.
This ratio was determined by the Emerald Growers Association and the Mendocino Cannabis Policy Council after polling numerous cannabis farmers about their water usage.
How Much Water Does It Take To Produce a Standard Eighth Of Cannabis?
1.875 total gallons per 1/8th of usable cannabis.
Use this figure when calculating your overhead costs if you’re adhering to the 1:1 ratio of one gallon per day per pound of processed flower.
How Often Should You Water Your Cannabis Plants?
Your watering schedule will vary according to the temperature of your grow area as well as the strain, health, and size of your plants. When determining a watering schedule, observe your plants every day.
Do the stalks look rigid or weak?
Do the leaves look colorful and vibrnt or do they look droopy and pale?
Also, consider utilizing gravity-fed watering systems that allow plants to take water in from the bottom u, taking the guesswork out of the equation.
How Do I Water Cannabis More Efficiently?
By following the below points, you’ll increase your chances of having success with growing cannabis:
• Use SoHum Living Soils® for best moisture retention and drainage
• Install a drip line system for maximum water control
• If you find yourself using more than the 1:1 ratio, consider moving your plants to larger pots to retain water longer
• Monitor your plants daily; as cannabis plants are living beings and can be unpredictable
• Utilize gravity fed watering systems or bottom watering containers
It is imperative to calculate water costs when growing cannabis. If a grower is not careful, the financial and environmental impacts of using too much water can be extreme.
At SoHum Living Soils®, our team consists of experts on growing cannabis, and our website features many articles on best practices.
For a more personal experience, contact us with questions or visit our store in Denver to speak with our knowledgeable team about your cultivation questions.
