Growing Cannabis in Containers

p>Are you considering growing cannabis plants but are worried about space? Cannabis can be grown in many ways, from hydroponic gardens to open fields. However, whether indoors, outdoors, or in greenhouses, the most common method of growing cannabis is using containers. Growing cannabis in containers provides roots with a safe and healthy growing space. Without strong and healthy roots, your cannabis plants won't grow well or produce good buds with the desired terpenes and cannabinoids. Different types of pots are used for growing cannabis, and they can affect the product depending on where and how you grow your

plants.

In this guide, you'll learn about the basics of growing your weed in containers, from the choice of containers to the game-changing drip irrigation system.

Things to Consider Before Buying Containers

Here are some things to think about before buying containers:

Size

When selecting containers for your cannabis plants, the most important factor to consider is size. Cannabis plants have a rich root system, so they need a container that allows them to spread out. If the container is too small or doesn't drain well, it can limit root growth, and your plants will not reach their full potential. Whether you're starting from seeds or transplanting seedlings, make sure your containers give the roots enough room to grow well.

Nutrients

The containers should help your cannabis plants absorb the right amount of nutrients. This means it should maintain the optimal soil pH and temperature, so plants don't miss out on essential nutrients.

Oxygen

Make sure your container has holes in it. This is important because it allows oxygen to reach the roots and will help your plants build strong roots.

Drainage

Your container needs to hold water, but not too much. Too much water can harm your plants because it might cause root rot. So, the container should let the excess water drain out. Look for containers with holes at the sides and base to allow water to drain and oxygen to enter. Dripworks offers smartly designed pots that promote healthy plant growth without requiring extra effort from the grower.

Remember these factors when selecting containers for your weed plants to keep your roots happy and healthy.

Different Types of Containers for Growing Cannabis

Before discussing watering cannabis containers, let's talk about the containers themselves. When you're choosing containers for growing cannabis, there are lots of options like fabric, plastic, and ceramic pots. But it is essential to select containers that match your weed plants' needs, like how large they'll expand and how tightly they'll grow.

Smart Pot Fabric Containers

Smart pot fabric containers provide the perfect environment for cannabis plants to grow. The unique fabric allows air to enter the roots, controlling the temperature and stopping the roots from circling around. They are ideal for indoor and outdoor growing, like black smart pots and tan smart pots. They are available in different sizes.

Pros and Cons of Growing Cannabis in Containers

Pros:

• Space Flexibility: Containers are great for small spaces, balconies, or indoor setups, making them perfect for different environments.
• Controlled Environment: You have more control over the growing conditions, including soil, nutrients, and sunlight exposure.
• Portability: You can move containers around to adjust to fluctuating weather or maximize sunlight exposure.
• Reduced Risk of Pests and Diseases: Raising plants above ground can help minimize the risk of pests and diseases. Containers can help reduce pest problems commonly associated with soil.
• Experiment with Different Varieties: Growing cannabis plants in containers also allows you to experiment with different cannabis varieties and discover your favorites.

Cons

• Limited Root Space: Plants may have limited space for root expansion compared to open ground growing.
• Watering Challenges: Containers can dry out quickly. They require regular attention to avoid underwatering.
• Size Limitations: The container's volume might limit the final plant size.

Irrigation Options for Cannabis Containers

Cannabis plants are prone to diseases when their leaves get wet. So, avoid using sprinklers or sprayers to water it. The irrigation system is essential because it gives the plants what they need to live: water, fertilizers (organic or inorganic), and micronutrients. Different irrigation methods are used for cannabis to tackle these challenges. The main methods are:

• Regular drip irrigation systems. The ½" emitter tubing or ¼" soaker dripline are commonly used in containers.
• Spray stakes like the C-Frame Down spray or Spot Spitter will provide a downward spray keeping the leaves dry.
• Drip irrigation with distribution rings like the Netafim Net Bow.

The best choice depends on:

1. How big your containers and plants are.
2. The type of soil you use.
3. How much water might go outside the containers.

Conventional Drip Irrigation

To water cannabis containers with the regular drip method, a plastic tube runs along the row of containers. Each container has a pressure-compensating Woodpecker 6 GPH dripper connected to the supply tube. A spaghetti tube connects to the dripper and is attached to a C-Frame Down Spray drip stake in the container. These drippers should be Compensating Non-Leak (CNL) devices to ensure the right watering. This method allows for equal water distribution and a controlled way to water containers.

Pros

• Precise control of water amount and timing.
• All water goes into the container, minimizing waste.
• Liquid nutrients can be added through the drip system.

Cons

• Limited coverage may not wet the entire root zone.
• Drippers can get clogged with organic fertilizers.

Monster Cannabis Kit

If you prefer the convenience of a drip kit system, let the Monster Cannabis Kit take care of the watering for you! The kit is perfect for a garden with many containers. It has a special tube that gives just the right amount of water to each plant. The kit includes 1/2" emitter tubing, which is great for container gardening. You can wind it around your plant's base or thread it through the container for even watering. It works well on sloped or uneven ground. The kit is strong, flexible, and can handle different pressures. It can water up to 10 large containers, making it a fantastic choice for your garden.

Check the specifications to see how much tubing you need for your Smart Pot and say goodbye to manual watering!

Drip Rings

A drip ring, such as the Netafim NetBow, is a different way to do regular drip irrigation. This option is good for containers up to 12 gallons. The NetBow is a plastic ring with eight drip points that go around the plant's stem. Each NetBow connects to a special dripper on the supply line using a tube. When the system is turned on, the NetBow releases a ring of water around the plant to wet more roots. They work better for coverage, but they might not be enough for containers larger than 12 gallons.

So, when choosing an irrigation method, consider the size of your containers, the type of growing media, and the need to minimize overspray. Each method has its perks, so choose the one that best fits your cannabis plants.

Final Thoughts

There you have it, a guide to growing cannabis in containers! Growing your own cannabis plants can be fun. Whether you have a small balcony or a bigger space, containers give you the flexibility to cultivate your plants.

By combining the benefits of container gardening with an efficient drip irrigation system like the Monster Cannabis Kit, you can overcome some of the challenges associated with growing cannabis in confined spaces and create a more controlled and productive cultivation environment.