First grow of anything (not even tomatoes!). Just bought my first tent–2 x 2 with Mars Hydro 600. Waiting for autoflowering seeds to arrive. I plan to do some easy LST. (I need to study that more! Scared I’ll mess up–but I am reading a lot!) I am not looking for huge yields or perfection. Just a bit of success the first time!
Questions:
(1) Some sources say only one plant in a 2 x 2; some say more. Your advice? Does it depend on the strain? (I am using 5 gallon grow bags.)
(2) Also, one source said “Sow your seed directly into its pot to avoid the stress of repotting later down the line. Transplanting causes plants to go into shock, and autoflowers grow so fast that they’ll struggle to recover.” However. I also have read need to start in a small container. Which is best?
Thanks.
I do my germ in a jiffy pod. When I see the roots on the bottom I just toss it in some soil. I don’t see much stress from it. I havent been growing for years though.
Thanks for your support! I am always slow to act but I am moving along. Do you have a “go to” person in the forum on autos? Are you that person? I also still need to find someone who knows how to order online in Europe. I need soil and nutes. It seems what people suggest is only available in US and Canada. (Of course, I haven’t read every post. However, my search brings up zilch.) Thanks!
On question 1.
Usually a 2x2 ft space is required for proper growth and spacing of plants.
There can be more if doing a SOG style grow in smaller pots.but in 5 gal one would be enough for that space.
#2. I start my seed in moist paper towel then after a 1/4 to 1/2 in tail develops then straight into my medium. I start in a 1 liter container until the 3rd to 4 th week when the leaves have extended past the edges and then transplant into final home.
Biggest thing starting in the bigger pot is to watch for over watering. Way easier to do in the larger container.
I usually have very few issues with transplant shock this way.
A good sprinkle of beneficial fungi and microbes also helps get the roots established as well.
Canada here so not much help on your local soils and nutes availability but there’s folks here from all over this world. Should be some local folks with some suggestions soon.
Good luck.
@sike hi there😊 I’m no pro but have used autos for over a year. I germinate with the wet paper towel method. Once it roots (24-36 hrs) I plant it.
They grow fast & start flowering when they are ready.
You could do 2 plants. Autos don’t grow as large as regular plants do. I feel they are sensitive to xtra nutrients so use soil already mixed with what it needs & let them do their thing. SCROG it when ready to flower so you can get the most out it. Good luck & have fun
