Growing cannabis can be an incredibly rewarding experience. What are the differences between soil cannabis cultivation and hydroponics? Let’s find out.
Soil Cultivation
When growing cannabis in soil, the roots can receive nutrients from various sources, such as organic matter and minerals. These sources also receive help from the soil food web and microbes.
This traditional method of growing cannabis has an extensive history dating as far back as 12,000 years ago! Cannabis is one of the world’s oldest cultivated crops. It came with the people who traveled from China to Siberia to the Middle East. Then, it finally reached the Americas.
Advantages of Soil
Because cannabis relies on natural soil properties, it can lead to rich flavors, aromas, and more diverse cannabinoid profiles. Furthermore, it has a lower initial investment cost for equipment and setup, making this method simple. Soil cultivation requires less attention and maintenance compared to hydroponic methods. Lastly, growers can use natural and organic fertilizers, which result in a more concentrated product.
Disadvantages of Soil
Some downsides to soil cannabis cultivation may change your mind. Firstly, yields can be significantly lower compared to hydroponic means. Secondly, cannabis growing in soil has many environmental and climate control needs.
For instance, the ideal climate for cannabis sits between 65 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit, with humidity around 60 percent. A cannabis grow room requires ventilation to prevent mold growth and pathogenic infestation. Lastly, diseases and soil-borne pests can become a growing problem if not managed.
Hydroponic Cultivation
A significant difference between soil cultivation and hydroponics is that hydroponic cannabis cultivation allows roots to extend into water or the air, which enables more nutrient intake through liquid solutions. This occurs during intermittent or constant feedings.
It incorporates the use of baskets or buckets filled with a growing medium and suspended over a full tank of water. It can lead to faster, more concentrated cannabis growing, offering a more controlled environment for higher yields.
Advantages of Hydroponics
Hydroponic cannabis growing applications have many aspects. Firstly, your cannabis is less susceptible to diseases and pests due to its sterile growing environment. Additionally, hydroponic growing stations require less space than typical soil cultivation methods. Hydroponic-grown cannabis can grow faster, producing higher yields due to the controlled environment and precise nutrient control. Water and nutrient recycling reduces waste and helps to conserve resources for other plants.
Disadvantages of Hydroponics
While hydroponic cannabis cultivation brings many benefits, knowing some potential downsides is crucial. Firstly, hydroponic stations and equipment have higher initial costs than soil cultivation. Hydroponic methods also need more attention and maintenance, requiring your constant supervision and adjustments.
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