Autoflowering
Cannabis plants that automatically begin flowering based on age rather than changes in the light cycle. These plants typically have a shorter growth cycle and are popular among growers for their ease of cultivation and rapid harvest times.
Cannabinoids
A group of chemical compounds found in cannabis that interact with the endocannabinoid system in the human body. This system helps regulate various physiological processes, including mood, appetite, and pain.
The most well-known cannabinoids are THC and CBD.
Cannabis
A versatile plant genus that includes three primary species: Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica, and Cannabis ruderalis. Each species has unique characteristics, uses, and effects, making them popular for both recreational and medicinal purposes.
CBD (Cannabidiol)
A major non-psychoactive component of cannabis. It has gained attention for its potential therapeutic properties, such as reducing anxiety, pain, and inflammation without causing a “high.”
Curing
The post-harvest process of drying and aging cannabis buds. This enhances the flavor, potency, and smoothness of the final product. Proper curing involves placing the dried buds in airtight containers, often glass jars, and opening them periodically to release moisture and allow for air exchange.
Curing Containers
Airtight containers, such as glass jars, used during the curing process to store and age cannabis buds.
Proper curing containers help preserve the quality and potency of the buds by maintaining the right humidity levels and preventing mold growth.
Drip System
An irrigation method that delivers nutrient solution directly to the roots of cannabis plants. This system helps ensure that plants receive a consistent supply of water and nutrients, promoting healthy growth and higher yields.
Drying Room
A controlled environment for drying cannabis buds after harvesting. Proper drying is crucial to prevent mold and preserve the quality of the buds. The room should have good ventilation, controlled temperature, and humidity levels.
EC/TDS Meter
Devices used to measure the electrical conductivity (EC) or total dissolved solids (TDS) in nutrient solutions. These measurements help growers monitor and adjust the nutrient concentration to ensure optimal plant health and growth.
Endocannabinoid System
A complex cell-signaling system in the human body that interacts with cannabinoids. It plays a role in regulating various physiological processes such as mood, appetite, sleep, and immune response.
Feminized Seeds
Cannabis seeds that are bred to produce only female plants. Female plants are preferred for cultivation because they produce flowers (buds) that contain high levels of cannabinoids.
Flush
The process of rinsing cannabis plants with plain water before harvest. This helps remove any excess nutrients from the plants, resulting in a cleaner and smoother final product.
Flowering Stage
The phase in the cannabis growth cycle when plants produce flowers (buds) containing cannabinoids and terpenes. This stage is triggered by changes in the light cycle, typically shifting to 12 hours of light and 12 hours of darkness.
Germination
The process of sprouting cannabis seeds by providing warmth, moisture, and darkness. Successful germination is the first step in cultivating cannabis plants.
Grow Lights
Artificial light sources, such as LED, HPS, or CFL, used to mimic sunlight for indoor cannabis cultivation. Proper lighting is essential for photosynthesis and healthy plant growth.
Harvesting
The process of cutting down mature cannabis plants to collect the flowers (buds) for consumption. Timing the harvest correctly is crucial to ensure the desired potency and flavor of the buds.
Hybrid
A cannabis strain bred from two or more different genetic varieties (sativa, indica, or ruderalis). Hybrids can combine the effects and characteristics of their parent strains, offering a balance of sativa and indica traits.
Hydroponics
A method of growing cannabis without soil, using nutrient-rich water solutions. Hydroponic systems can provide faster growth and higher yields by delivering nutrients directly to the plant roots.
Indica
A cannabis strain known for its relaxing and sedative effects, often used at night. Indica plants typically have broader leaves and a shorter, bushier stature compared to sativa plants.
Nutrients
Essential elements like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium used to feed cannabis plants during their growth. Proper nutrient management is vital for healthy plant development and maximizing yields.
pH Balance
The measure of acidity or alkalinity in soil or water, affecting nutrient uptake by cannabis plants. Maintaining the correct pH range is crucial for optimal growth and preventing nutrient deficiencies.
pH Meter
A tool for measuring the acidity or alkalinity of soil or water used in cannabis cultivation. Accurate pH readings help growers adjust their growing conditions to ensure healthy plant growth.
Photoperiod
The light/dark cycle that plants need for vegetative growth (typically 18 hours of light and 6 hours of darkness) and flowering (12 hours of light and 12 hours of darkness). Adjusting the photoperiod is essential for triggering the flowering stage in photoperiod strains.
Pruning
Removing parts of cannabis plants (leaves, branches) to improve airflow, light penetration, and yield. Pruning helps shape the plant and can enhance bud development by directing energy to the most productive parts.
Reservoir
A container that holds the nutrient solution in hydroponic systems for feeding cannabis plants. The reservoir ensures a consistent supply of nutrients and water to the plants.
Ruderalis
A lesser-known cannabis variety prized for its autoflowering trait, often used in hybrid breeding. Ruderalis plants are hardy and can thrive in harsh conditions, but they are generally lower in THC compared to sativa and indica.
Runoff
Excess water or nutrient solution that drains from containers or soil after watering cannabis plants. Monitoring runoff helps growers assess nutrient levels and prevent overfeeding or nutrient buildup.
Sativa
A cannabis strain known for its energizing and uplifting effects, often used during the day. Sativa plants typically have narrower leaves and a taller, more elongated stature compared to indica plants.
Seedling
A young cannabis plant that has just emerged from the seed casing, typically with its first set of leaves (cotyledons). The seedling stage is crucial for establishing strong roots and healthy initial growth.
Soil Medium
Traditional growing medium using soil to support cannabis plant growth. Soil provides a natural environment for root development and contains organic matter that can enhance plant health.
Terpenes
Aromatic compounds found in cannabis and other plants. They contribute to the plant’s aroma and flavor and can influence the effects of different strains. Terpenes work synergistically with cannabinoids to create the entourage effect.
THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol)
The primary psychoactive compound found in cannabis. It binds to cannabinoid receptors in the brain, leading to effects like euphoria, altered senses, and relaxation. Higher THC levels are often associated with stronger psychoactive effects.
Training
Techniques such as topping, bending (LST), or scrogging to manipulate plant growth for higher yields. Training helps manage plant height, improve light exposure, and increase bud production.
Trichomes
Tiny, hair-like structures on the surface of cannabis flowers and leaves. They produce and store cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds. Trichomes give cannabis buds their frosty appearance and contribute to their potency and aroma.
Trimming
Removing excess leaves and stems from dried cannabis buds before consumption or packaging. Trimming enhances the appearance and quality of the buds, making them more desirable for users.
Vegetative Stage
The growth phase of cannabis focused on developing foliage and strong roots before flowering. During this stage, plants need ample light, nutrients, and water to build a robust structure.
Ventilation
The air circulation system in grow rooms to manage temperature, humidity, and CO2 levels for optimal plant growth. Proper ventilation prevents mold, pests, and heat stress while ensuring plants receive fresh air.