Are you ready to challenge the traditional rules of cannabis growing? In the world of cultivation, there is a sacred belief that photoperiod strains require a vegetative period to grow and gain mass before transitioning into the flowering stage. However, a daring group of enthusiasts has shattered this conventional wisdom by successfully growing photoperiod strains using a 12-12 light cycle from the moment the seed germinates. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the method of 12-12 from seed and explore its benefits, drawbacks, and techniques for optimizing yields. So, if you’re curious about this unconventional approach to cannabis cultivation, read on!
Understanding 12-12 From Seed
To grasp the concept of 12-12 from seed, it’s essential to understand the role of light cycles in cannabis growth. Typically, cannabis plants go through a vegetative stage and a flowering stage. During the vegetative stage, plants receive more than 12 hours of light per day, which stimulates vigorous growth, height increase, and preparation for bud development. Transitioning to a 12-12 light cycle triggers the flowering stage, during which the plant focuses its energy on producing sticky and aromatic buds.
However, the 12-12 from seed approach challenges this traditional sequence. With this 12-12 from seed method, you expose your cannabis plants to 12 hours of light and 12 hours of darkness per day from the moment the seed pops until harvest. By skipping the vegetative phase entirely, you force the plant to start flowering as soon as it reaches maturity, resulting in a significantly shorter growth cycle.
Pros of 12-12 From Seed
1. Shorter Grow Cycle
The most enticing advantage of this method is the reduced time required for plants to reach harvest. While photoperiod strains typically take several months to transition from seed to harvest, 12-12 from seed allows you to bypass the vegetative stage entirely. As a result, you can harvest your buds up to three months earlier than the traditional growing method.
2. Compact Plants
With 12-12 from seed, you can expect your cannabis plants to remain compact in size. Depending on the strain, they will rarely exceed 50cm (1’7″), resulting in what some refer to as “bud stick” plants. These adorable, small-sized plants are not only visually appealing but also easier to manage and conceal.
3. Stealthiness
The small size of 12-12 from seed plants offers an added advantage of stealthiness. These diminutive plants are easier to hide, making them an ideal choice for growers concerned about discretion. Additionally, they emit less pungent odors, further reducing the risk of detection.
4. Cost-Effective Growing
By choosing to grow smaller marijuana plants using the 12-12 from seed method, you can save significant amounts of money. Smaller plants require less water, nutrients, and growing space. Moreover, they consume less electricity, which is often the most significant expense when growing cannabis at home.
Cons of 12-12 From Seed
1. Limited Training Possibilities
One of the main drawbacks of 12-12 from seed is the limited training options available for your plants. Most training techniques, such as topping and pruning, are typically performed during the vegetative stage. Therefore, by skipping this phase, you miss out on the opportunity to shape and manipulate the plant’s structure. The only available training methods for 12-12 from seed plants are light low-stress training (LST) and sea of green (SOG).
2. Lower Yields
Perhaps the most significant concern with 12-12 from seed is the potential for lower yields. Since the plants do not undergo the vegetative stage where they accumulate mass and height, they tend to produce smaller yields compared to their counterparts that have gone through the traditional growth cycle. While some growers have reported yields as low as a few grams per plant, it’s important to note that actual yields vary depending on the strain and the grower’s skills.
Tips to Maximize 12-12 From Seed Yields
While 12-12 from seed may result in lower yields, there are strategies you can employ to optimize the outcome. Here are some proven tips to help you maximize your yields when growing cannabis using the 12-12 from seed method:
1. Start with Longer Daylight
Contrary to popular belief, cannabis plants grown using 12-12 from seed do not immediately start flowering after germination. It takes approximately 2-3 weeks for the plants to reach maturity and begin the flowering process. To encourage more vigorous growth during this crucial period, consider providing 18 hours of light and 6 hours of darkness for the first three weeks. This extended daylight period allows the plants to develop a stronger foundation before transitioning to the 12-12 light cycle.
2. Utilize Low-Stress Training (LST)
One effective technique for optimizing yields with this technique is low-stress training (LST). LST involves gently bending and securing the plant’s stalks to expose more bud sites to light. Additionally, periodic defoliation can improve airflow and light penetration, leading to denser and more productive buds. It’s important to start slow and monitor the plant’s response to LST to avoid causing stress or damage.
3. Implement Sea of Green (SOG)
Sea of Green (SOG) is another technique that works exceptionally well with 12-12 from seed. This method involves growing several small plants together instead of a single larger one. By maximizing the use of space and light, you can achieve better yields. For optimal results, switch to the 12-12 light cycle during the second or third week after germination. Keep in mind that the plants may not remain as tiny when using this technique, but the yields will be more substantial.
4. Choose the Right Strains
Not all cannabis strains are suitable for 12-12 from seed. Indica and Indica-dominant strains tend to be more compatible with this method as they stretch less during flowering. Consider strains like Ninja Fruit, Blue Dream, and Cherry Pie, known for their resilience and high yield potential in 12-12 from seed grows. Research and select strains that are well-suited for this specific cultivation technique.
Conclusion
In the world of cannabis cultivation, rules are meant to be broken. The 12-12 from seed method challenges the conventional wisdom of the vegetative stage, offering growers an alternative way to achieve faster harvests and smaller, more manageable plants. While it may result in lower yields and limited training options, the benefits of shorter grow cycles, stealthiness, and cost savings make this growing method an enticing option for many cultivators. By incorporating techniques such as longer daylight periods, low-stress training, and sea of green, you can optimize your yields and unlock the full potential of this experimental growing method. So, if you’re ready to push the boundaries of cannabis cultivation, give 12-12 from seed a try and discover a whole new world of fast and efficient cannabis growing.
Further Reading: https://www.academia.edu/32525654/Plantphysiologyfifthedition_lincolntaizeduardozeiger_150601173458_lva1_app?uc-g-sw=27225799