1. Choose the Right Strain
South Africa may have extremely varied regional weather patterns but conditions are generally ideal for successful cannabis cultivation. We’re blessed with warm weather and long summers, just the right climate for all-year grow. The varying environmental and weather conditions make choosing the right genetics key. Sativa, Indica or Hybrid? That is the question to ask. Sativa strains thrive in warmer, tropical conditions and are ideal for KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo and Mpumalanga. Indica strains are meanwhile more suited to the cooler and low humidity conditions of the Highveld. Hybrids combine the best of both worlds and offer a buffer against mercurial weather conditions such as are common in Western Cape. Hybrids are usually selectively bred for desired qualities, yields, CBD/THC profiles and adaptability.
2. Purpose of Cultivation
When going on an industrial hemp journey, first decide the purpose of your grow and the genetics to select.
Hemp fibre: Hemp fibre varieties are grown for textiles, hempcrete for construction, biofuel and other products and uses. These hemp plant stalks are usually taller as the stalk is the primary harvest target.
Grain: Hemp grain varieties are used for food and nutritional products as the hemp seed is high in protein, fibre, and fatty acids. These are primarily grown for their seeds.
CBD: CBD or other cannabinoids: This variety is the most lucrative and used in nutraceutical, pharmaceutical, and dietary supplement due to its multiple health benefits. Unlike the others, CBD plant varieties are bushier and resemble a marijuana plant. This variety is grown and sold for flower and frequently faces legal and regulatory scrutiny.
3. Yields Different Varieties Offer
Some growers measure yields per plant and others per plant. However, fast-flowering strains bring quicker harvest times and allow multiple grows per single season. They are ideal for outdoors growing in regions with short summers or in warm regions when multiple seasonal harvests is the goal. For THC cannabis especially, fast-flowering strains can reduce operational costs while providing a consistent flow of crop.
Cultivators may want to choose between seeds, transplants and clones as this determines price and feminisation rates. Seeds do not provide as much control and predictability, making it important to buy from credible breeders that prioritise feminisation. Feminised seeds are seeds specially bred to produce female plants, ensuring a higher probability of obtaining a plant that will yield buds. On the other hand, male plants don’t produce the sought-after buds and can even pollinate female plants, reducing their quality.
Starting with feminised seeds often leads to better results and larger profits. As for clones, they will always be feminised as they are plucked directly from a mother hemp plant and propagated from the cuttings. Hence they are usually costlier than seeds.
Clones produce a fibrous root while seeds create a taproot that penetrates deeper and is the preferred root system by most farmers although opinions vary.
4. Budget
Consider overhead and extraneous costs and therefore making a budget and calculating potential profits is necessary before heading to the market for seeds. As a rule, indoors and greenhouse operations are exponentially more expensive than outdoors operations. Your budget also determines what starter you can begin with as transplants and clones are more expensive than seeds.
5. Seed Bank Reputation
It is advisable to buy feminised seeds from a reputable seed bank. The market is replete with anecdotes of cultivators purchasing mislabelled merchandise. A reputable seed bank will provide quality seeds that correspond to their genetics thus increasing your chances of a successful harvest. Avoid the scam trap by doing a bit of research and reading reviews in order to avoid purchasing low quality seeds. Reliable suppliers and seed banks often offer a guarantee, ensuring you receive quality seeds.
6. Master Germination Techniques
Germination – the sprouting into seedlings of seeds – is a critical step in cultivation. Beginners are advised to choose a germination technique that corresponds to their skills and resources as proper germination sets the basis for a healthy and vigorous cannabis plant. Common germination methods include paper towel method, the glass of water method and use of germination tubes.
7. Consider Unique Genetics Requirements
Space, lighting and nutrient needs are essential to a successful harvest and different genetics have their unique requirements of these variables. Space might influence seed selection although it is essential to know the amount of space for the cultivar you select as some strains are better suited to particular environments: indoors, outdoors or greenhouse. Similarly, different strains may require different lighting needs. Just as important are the selected plants’ nutrient requirements throughout the growing cycle.
8. Seed longevity
Understanding the shelf life of seeds is essential as this has a direct impact on germination viability. This makes essential awareness and monitoring of storage conditions. Fresh seeds are preferred for optimal germination rates as older seeds have decreased viability over time. Growers should go for trusted seed banks known for maintaining high storage standards and handling practices.
9. Identify and Grow Similar Strains
Growers may want to use their knowledge of genetics to identify strains that are commercially viable and thus group these in ‘management groups’. These consist of cultivars that have similar requirements and grow well together. This enables a supplier to satisfactorily substitute a certain strain or genetic should any problems occur with one of those in the group.
10. Pests and Diseases
Before buying feminised seeds, acquaint yourself with common cannabis pests and diseases and how to prevent them. Organic pest control methods, proper sanitation practices and vigilance should form part of every cultivator’s grow schedule.
#
