Guide to 6-Week-Old Autoflower Cannabis Plants

Caring for 6-week-old autoflower cannabis plants is a crucial part of the growing process, as this stage sets the foundation for a successful harvest. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about this growth stage, including plant care, nutrients, watering, potential issues, and expected yields. Whether you’re growing Bruce Banner autoflowering or Northern…

Guide to 6-Week-Old Autoflower Cannabis Plants
Kodinov Ivan

Author: Kodinov Ivan

Publish Date: July 13, 2023
Last Update Date: September 13, 2023

Table of Content

Understanding the Autoflower Growth Stages

Autoflower cannabis plants progress through several growth stages, starting with germination and ending with harvest.

Unlike photoperiod plants, autoflowering strains begin flowering based on their genetic programming, making them ideal for first-time marijuana growers.

The 6-Week-Old Stage

The 6-Week-Old Stage

At the 6-week-old stage, your autoflower plants are well into the flowering phase.

The size and look of the plants will vary depending on the strain and growing conditions.

You should see the development of buds and the flowering signs, such as pistils and trichomes, becoming more prominent.

Depending on the strain, this stage usually lasts 45 to 55 days after the vegetative stage.

Plant Care for 6-Week-Old Autoflower Plants

To ensure your 6-week-old autoflower plants thrive, focus on providing the right nutrients, maintaining an appropriate watering schedule, and employing pruning and training techniques when necessary.

Nutrients and Feeding

6-week-old autoflower plants require a balanced nutrient mix to support bud development.

Key nutrient ratios to consider include:

  • Nitrogen (N)
  • Phosphorus (P)
  • Potassium (K)

A nutrient mix with lower nitrogen and higher phosphorus and potassium levels is ideal at this stage.

Consider using supplements such as bat guano, bone meal, or kelp meal to enhance the nutrient profile.

Keep a close eye on the pH levels of your soil or hydroponic system to prevent a nutrient lockout.

Watering Schedule

Watering Schedule

Proper watering is crucial for healthy plant development.

Generally, 6-week-old autoflower plants should be watered every 2-3 days, depending on the growing medium and environmental conditions.

Keep the soil moist but not overly saturated, and ensure your plants have proper drainage to prevent root rot.

Pruning and Training Techniques

While pruning and training autoflower plants can be beneficial, proceeding cautiously is essential, as these plants have a limited time to recover from stress.

Techniques like Low-Stress Training (LST) and Selective Leaf Removal can be employed to improve light penetration and air circulation.

Common Issues with 6-Week-Old Autoflower Plants

Monitoring your plants for pests, diseases, and nutrient deficiencies can help you address potential issues before they escalate.

Pests and Diseases

Pests and Diseases

Common pests and diseases affecting 6-week-old autoflower plants include:

  • Spider mites
  • Aphids
  • Whiteflies
  • Fungal infections (e.g., powdery mildew)

To prevent and treat these issues, maintain proper humidity and temperature levels, airflow and use organic or chemical pesticides when necessary.

Nutrient Deficiencies

Nutrient deficiencies can manifest in various ways, such as yellowing leaves, poor growth, or weak stems.

Addressing these deficiencies requires adjusting nutrient levels, monitoring the pH levels, and ensuring proper watering practices.

Tips for Maximizing Yield and Plant Health

To maximize your plants potential, consider the following tips:

  • Use an appropriate light schedule for the entire growth cycle, such as 20/4 or 18/6.
  • To support bud development, provide ample lighting with sufficient wattage, such as 600W HID lights, CFLs, or LEDs.
  • Choose the right strain for your growing conditions, like Gorilla Glue or Girl Scout Cookies.
  • Maintain proper airflow with a fan to help prevent mold and pests.
  • Utilize an organic soil mix or hydroponic system tailored to your needs and preferences.

FAQ

What weeks do Autoflowers grow the most?

Autoflowers experience their most rapid growth during the late vegetative and early flowering stages, typically between weeks 3 and 6.

Do Autoflowers take 8 weeks to flower?

The exact flowering time for autoflowers varies depending on the strain, but most autoflowering strains take 8-10 weeks from seed to harvest.

What week do Autoflowers start to stretch?

Autoflowers usually start to stretch during the transition from the vegetative to the flowering stage, which typically occurs around weeks 3 to 4.

Should autoflower fan leaves be removed 6 weeks into the flowering stage?

Removing fan leaves during the flowering stage is generally not recommended, as they play a crucial role in photosynthesis. However, selective leaf removal can improve light penetration and airflow, but only remove a few leaves at a time to avoid stressing the plant.

What should buds look like in week 6?

At week 6, buds should be well-developed and denser, with more visible trichomes and pistils. The exact appearance will vary depending on the strain and growing conditions.

Do buds get bigger after week 6?

Yes, buds continue to develop and increase in size after week 6, usually reaching their maximum size towards the end of the flowering stage, just before harvest.

About the Author

With over a decade of hands-on cannabis growing experience, Ivan Kodinnov is an authority on cannabis cultivation. Ivan earned a Bachelor’s degree in Botany and Agricultural Science before completing advanced cannabis training programs. As CEO of his cannabis company, Ivan upholds rigorous quality standards using premium organic ingredients. Ivan’s writings demonstrate his deep knowledge of cannabis strains, growth techniques, and the latest research. Ivan advocates responsible legalization and chairs industry organizations promoting cannabis education. Awards from leading cannabis groups solidify Ivan’s reputation as a trusted expert. His lifelong passion for the plant shines through in his commitment to advancing cannabis horticulture.

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