Pots are one of the most effective ways of growing cannabis plants. Containers overcome soil issues, help to control pests, and save space, enabling you to enjoy fresh produce without a yard. However, not all growing pots are the same. Some are better suited for large plants or warmer climates than others.
Furthermore, they also differ in size and offer varying water holding and drainage capacities. When growing cannabis, you require the most suitable pots to promote yield and growth. In this article, you get to learn what you need to know about the best posts for growing cannabis.
Contents
1. Smart (Fabric Pots)
Smart pots have a thick fabric covering that helps to support plants and soil. In addition, fabric pots have excellent drainage and airflow, which helps prevent overwatering and enhance plant growth.
Research shows that fabric pots promote the health of a plant and lead to massive yields since they encourage the natural defenses of the plant and keep it strong. Unfortunately, pests and diseases typically thrive in a dump environment. Smart pots have a porous design that promotes excess drainage of water from the bottom of the pot, reducing pests and diseases.
2. Air Pots
Air pots are made of breathable fabric and offer excellent aeration through the holes in the pot. They are containers with holes on the side, and they are advantageous because they won’t tip over and are sturdier.
When using air pots, it is essential to set them properly above-sized saucers because they leak water from the openings on the side. They support optimal drainage, boost root system and oxygenation, and limit any root decay and diseases. However, it is crucial to note that they are a bit expensive and increase watering.
3. Hempy Buckets
Hempy buckets have become popular in cannabis growing, and their difference with normal pots is that the drainage hole is not at the bottom but a few centimeters above. The design of hempy buckets allows for creating a reservoir of nutrient solutions at the bottom of the bucket.
Therefore, when the roots reach that reservoir at the bottom of the container, it results in massive buds and rapid growth. Making a hempy bucket is easy and involves getting a drill with a half-inch bit and then drilling a bucket at least 2 inches from the bottom.
4. Standard Terracotta Pots
Terracotta pots are also known as ceramic containers and are similar to standard plastic pots except for the material. It is worth noting that if you plan to grow cannabis in a warm climate, terracotta pots are the way to go.
Compared to plastic pots, terracotta is heavy and can soak up and store extra moisture, which creates a cooling effect for the plant. The main advantage of using this type of pot is that it is heavy and, as such, can anchor wider plant varieties.
Additionally, it absorbs moisture on hot days and retains low temperatures. However, the heavyweight of ceramic at times makes it difficult to transport plants.
5. Standard Plastic Pots
Plastic pots are the most common types that are available all over and at an affordable price. When choosing standard pots, plastic pots are the most preferred. When purchasing these pots, ensure that you have a matching saucer because it will come in handy to hold runoff water at the bottom of the pot.
It is vital to remember that standard plastic pots should have drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. Since not all pots come already pre-holed, you may have to create the holes yourself to promote plant growth.
Plastic pots are beneficial for growing cannabis because they transplant simple and affordable, low overhead costs, and solid drainage. However, it is worth noting that they may have airflow issues depending on the growth medium.
Choosing the Right Pot Size
The cannabis plant is best grown in pots with a capacity of 6-12 liters as grouped below:
Small Pots (6.5 to 8.5 l)
They are ideal, especially for the auto-flowering type of cannabis, and also help to utilize all the space. Small pots produce large amounts of plants and can be used by a person trying to grow cannabis for the first time. In addition, the small pot size all use a support mechanism for the plants that in turn help to increase yields.
Large Pots (25 l)
Alternatively, you can opt for large pots if you have a large growing space or number of plants. Some cannabis plants that are very large work best in such pots. When you use up to 20 liters of pots, you allow them to reach their full potential. The roots grow deeper, and the leaves spread evenly without any limitations in space.
Conclusion
The choice of pots for growing cannabis depends on the size of the pant, the climate, and budget. However, at all times, ensure that you have saucers to hold run-off water. You do not want runoff water flooding the growing area, and as such, you will need saucers.
Furthermore, containers such as smart pots will require bigger saucers than the rest to hold excess water from the sides. Always purchase from reputable organizations that offer high-quality products.