Master Outdoor Autoflowering Cannabis Growing

Growing cannabis outdoors using autoflowering seeds has gained immense popularity due to its simplicity and efficiency. Autoflowering strains, known for their quick growth cycles and resilience, are ideal for both novice and experienced growers. This guide will provide you with detailed information on the best practices, top strains, and essential tips for cultivating autoflowering cannabis seeds outdoors in 2024.

What Are Autoflowering Seeds?

Autoflowering seeds are a type of cannabis that transitions from the vegetative stage to the flowering stage based on the plant's age, rather than changes in the light cycle. This characteristic makes them particularly suited for outdoor cultivation, as they can thrive in various environmental conditions and do not depend on precise lighting schedules.

Benefits of Autoflowering Seeds for Outdoor Growing

1. Fast Growth Cycle: Autoflowering strains typically complete their life cycle in 8–12 weeks, allowing for multiple harvests in a single growing season.
2. Compact Size: These plants are generally smaller and more discreet, making them ideal for outdoor growers with limited space or those seeking a low-profile grow.
3. Resilience: Autoflowering cannabis can withstand fluctuations in temperature and humidity, making them robust against common environmental stresses.
4. Ease of Growth: They are less demanding in terms of nutrients and care, making them perfect for beginners.

Top Autoflowering Strains for Outdoor Growing in 2024

1. Girl Scout Cookies Extreme Autoflower

   • Genetics: Durban Poison x OG Kush x Ruderalis
   • THC: Up to 21%
   • Yield: 5 to 15 oz/plant
   • Growth Time: 10–14 weeks
   • Characteristics: Sweet, earthy aroma with euphoric, relaxing effects. Easy to grow and highly resilient​.

2. Forbidden Runtz Auto

   • Genetics: Runtz
   • THC: Up to 26%
   • Yield: 50-150 gr/plant
   • Growth Time: 9 weeks
   • Characteristics: Strong indica effects, high yields, and flavorful flowers. Highly recommended for both beginners and experienced growers.

3. Amnesia Haze Autoflower

   • Genetics: Amnesia Haze x Ruderalis
   • THC: Up to 21%
   • Yield: 5 to 15 oz/plant
   • Growth Time: 7–10 weeks
   • Characteristics: Known for its uplifting and creative high, this sativa-dominant strain is popular for its sweet, citrusy flavors.

4. Northern Light Automatic

   • Genetics: Northern Light x Ruderalis
   • THC: 14%
   • Yield: Up to 220 gr/plant
   • Growth Time: 10–12 weeks
   • Characteristics: Provides a mellow, clear-headed high with earthy and citrus flavors. Ideal for late-season planting​.

5. Strawberry Gorilla Auto

   • Genetics: Gorilla Glue x Strawberry Cough
   • THC: Up to 28.4%
   • Yield: 60-300 gr/plant
   • Growth Time: 10 weeks
   • Characteristics: Offers a potent, uplifting high with sweet, strawberry flavors. Great for both recreational and medicinal use.

Comparative Table of Top Autoflowering Strains

Tips for Growing Autoflowering Cannabis Outdoors

1. Choosing the Right Location: Select a spot that receives ample sunlight and has good air circulation. Avoid areas prone to strong winds or heavy rainfall.
2. Soil Preparation: Use well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Adding perlite can improve aeration and drainage.
3. Watering: Autoflowers do not require excessive watering. Water the plants when the top inch of soil feels dry.
4. Nutrients: Start with a balanced nutrient mix and switch to a formula higher in phosphorus and potassium during the flowering stage.
5. Pest Control: Regularly inspect plants for pests and use natural insecticides or companion planting to keep harmful insects at bay.
6. Training Techniques: Low-Stress Training (LST) can be beneficial to maximize light exposure and increase yields. Be gentle, as autoflowers have a short vegetative stage and can be sensitive to stress.

When to Plant Autoflowering Seeds Outdoors

The timing for planting autoflowering seeds outdoors depends largely on your local climate. In general, the best time to start is in early spring after the last frost. This allows the plants to take full advantage of the growing season. In regions with mild climates, it is possible to achieve multiple harvests per year by planting new seeds every few weeks.

Harvesting and Curing

Autoflowering cannabis plants are typically ready for harvest within 8–12 weeks from germination. It's crucial to monitor the trichomes on the buds to determine the optimal harvest time. Once the majority of trichomes turn milky with some amber, the plant is ready to be harvested. Proper drying and curing are essential to preserve the potency and flavor of the buds.

1. Drying: Hang the trimmed buds upside down in a dark, well-ventilated room with a humidity level of around 50-60%. This process usually takes about 7–10 days.
2. Curing: Once the buds are dry, place them in airtight glass jars, opening the jars for a few minutes each day to release moisture and allow fresh air to circulate. Curing can take anywhere from 2 weeks to several months, with longer curing times resulting in smoother, more flavorful buds.

Advanced Tips for Maximizing Yields

1. Supplemental Lighting: For growers in areas with less than ideal sunlight, using supplemental LED lighting can help boost growth and yield.
2. Climate Control: In regions with extreme weather conditions, using greenhouses or polytunnels can protect plants and extend the growing season.
3. Advanced Nutrient Regimen: Implementing a more detailed nutrient schedule, including micronutrients and bloom boosters, can enhance plant health and yield.
4. CO2 Enrichment: Adding CO2 to the growing environment can significantly increase growth.

Conclusion

Autoflowering cannabis seeds provide a convenient and efficient way to grow high-quality cannabis outdoors. Their resilience, fast growth cycle, and ease of cultivation make them an excellent choice for both novice and experienced growers. By selecting the right strains and following best practices for outdoor growing, you can achieve impressive yields and enjoy the unique flavors and effects that these autoflowering strains have to offer.

For more information, you can visit Canapuff​. Happy growing!