Title: Growing White Widow Weed from Seed: A Beginner’s Guide!
White Widow is one of the most iconic cannabis strains in the world. Known for its balanced effects, high resin production, and ease of growth, it has become a favorite among both novice and experienced growers. If you're thinking about growing auto white widow feminised seeds from seed, you're in for a rewarding experience. This guide will walk you through the process, from selecting seeds to harvesting your first crop.
Choosing the Right Seeds
The first step in growing White Widow is selecting high-quality seeds. You can find feminized seeds, which ensure that all your plants will be female and produce buds. Autoflowering White Widow seeds are also available and are ideal for growers who want a quicker harvest and less hassle with light cycles. Choose seeds from a reputable supplier to ensure strong genetics and a healthy crop.
Germination and Early Growth
Once you have your seeds, it’s time to germinate them. The paper towel method is a popular and effective way to start. Place your seeds between two moist paper towels, keep them warm and dark, and wait for them to sprout. This usually takes 2 to 5 days. Once the taproot appears, gently plant the seeds in soil or your chosen growing medium.
During the seedling stage, White Widow plants need plenty of light and a stable environment. Keep the temperature between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit and maintain humidity around 60 to 70 percent. Use a gentle light source like a CFL or LED grow light to avoid burning the young plants.
Vegetative Stage
As your White Widow plants enter the vegetative stage, they will begin to grow rapidly. This is the time to provide them with more intense light, such as a full-spectrum LED or HID light. Keep the lights on for 18 hours a day and off for 6 hours to encourage strong growth.
Feed your plants with a nitrogen-rich fertilizer during this stage. Make sure they have enough space to grow and consider topping or training them to encourage bushier growth and more bud sites. Keep an eye on the pH of your water and soil, aiming for a range of 6.0 to 6.5.
Flowering Stage
White Widow typically begins to flower after 8 to 10 weeks of vegetative growth. If you're growing photoperiod plants, switch your light cycle to 12 hours on and 12 hours off to trigger flowering. Autoflowering varieties will begin to flower on their own, usually around 4 to 6 weeks after germination.
During flowering, your plants will start to produce buds and a strong aroma. Reduce humidity to around 40 to 50 percent to prevent mold and mildew. Switch to a bloom fertilizer that is higher in phosphorus and potassium to support bud development.
Harvesting and Curing
White Widow is usually ready to harvest after 8 to 10 weeks of flowering. Look at the trichomes on the buds with a magnifying glass or microscope. When most trichomes are milky white with a few amber ones, it's time to harvest.
Cut the plants and hang them upside down in a dark, well-ventilated room to dry. After about a week, when the stems snap instead of bend, it's time to cure. Place the dried buds in glass jars, opening them daily for the first week to release moisture. Curing for at least two to four weeks will improve flavor and potency.
Final Thoughts
Growing White Widow from seed is a fulfilling project that can yield high-quality cannabis with a little care and attention. Its resilience and forgiving nature make it a great choice for beginners, while its potent effects and rich flavor keep experienced growers coming back. With the right setup and patience, you’ll enjoy a successful harvest and a deeper appreciation for this legendary strain.