September 24, 2024 
Growing cannabis from seeds can be a rewarding journey, but for beginners, it can also feel overwhelming. From choosing the right seeds to nurturing young plants, there are several factors that influence their success. The key to thriving cannabis seedlings lies in creating the perfect environment for them to grow strong and healthy. In this blog, I’ll guide you through everything you need to know about cannabis seedlings, addressing common questions and offering insights to help you achieve the best results. Let’s unlock the secrets to healthy seedlings and thriving cannabis plants!
Cannabis seedlings are the young plants that emerge once a cannabis seed has germinated. This stage is crucial as it sets the foundation for your plant’s future growth. During the seedling phase, your cannabis plants are extremely delicate and need proper care to develop into strong, healthy plants.
When cannabis seeds germinate, they shed their outer shell and push out their first root, known as the taproot. Shortly after, the seedling will produce two small leaves called cotyledons. These leaves are not true cannabis leaves but serve to absorb light, allowing the seedling to begin photosynthesis and grow.
On average, the seedling stage lasts about two to three weeks, depending on the strain and growing conditions. During this period, the cannabis plant develops its first few sets of true leaves. Once your seedling has grown three to four sets of true leaves, it officially transitions to the vegetative stage.
Light is one of the most important factors for cannabis seedlings. Seedlings require a gentle yet sufficient amount of light to thrive. I recommend using a 16- to 18-hour light cycle during this stage, which mimics natural sunlight and encourages healthy growth. Avoid using intense lights that could burn the delicate seedlings. A grow light with low intensity, positioned about 24 inches above the plant, works perfectly for this stage.
Overwatering is a common mistake when growing seedlings. Cannabis seedlings have small, delicate roots, and too much water can lead to root rot or fungal issues. A good rule of thumb is to water them sparingly, ensuring the soil stays moist but not drenched. When watering, use a spray bottle to lightly mist the top layer of soil. I usually check the soil moisture with my finger—if the top inch feels dry, it’s time to water.
Seedlings thrive in a light, airy, and well-draining soil mix. I always recommend using soil specifically designed for seedlings, as these contain the perfect balance of nutrients. Avoid soils that are too rich in nutrients like nitrogen, as they can overwhelm the seedlings and cause nutrient burn. Peat-based or coco coir mediums are great choices for beginners because they allow the roots to breathe while retaining moisture.
Maintaining the right temperature and humidity is essential for cannabis seedlings. I aim to keep the temperature between 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit (21-26°C) during the day and slightly cooler at night. As for humidity, seedlings thrive in high-humidity environments—around 65 to 70 percent. If the humidity levels drop too low, I use a humidity dome or mist the air to keep the environment moist.
In the seedling stage, less is more when it comes to nutrients. During the first couple of weeks, the seedling gets all its nutrients from the seed itself, so additional feeding is not necessary. Once the seedling has developed two to three sets of true leaves, I begin feeding with a diluted nutrient solution (at ¼ strength) and gradually increase the dosage as the plant grows.
Stretching is a common issue in which seedlings grow too tall and thin due to insufficient light. To prevent this, ensure your seedlings are getting enough light by adjusting the distance of your grow lights. If the light is too far away, the seedling will stretch towards it, becoming weak and lanky. Keep the light source close but not so close that it burns the plants. I always aim to position the lights about 24 inches above the seedlings and adjust them as needed.
Transplanting can be stressful for seedlings, so I handle this process with care. I usually wait until the seedlings have at least three to four sets of true leaves before transplanting them into larger pots. When transplanting, avoid disturbing the roots as much as possible, and water the new soil lightly after transplanting to help the plant settle in its new environment.
Growing cannabis seedlings can be tricky, especially if it’s your first time. Here are a few common mistakes I’ve learned to avoid:
Growing cannabis seedlings is a delicate process, but with the right knowledge and care, anyone can do it successfully. By following these key steps—monitoring light, watering carefully, and maintaining the right environment—you’ll be well on your way to growing healthy and vibrant cannabis plants. Remember, patience is key in the seedling stage. Once you’ve mastered this stage, your plants will be ready to thrive through the vegetative and flowering stages, ultimately rewarding you with a bountiful harvest.
Now that you know how to grow strong, healthy seedlings, get your garden started by shopping the collection of regular, feminized, and autoflower cannabis seeds and clones at Seeds Here Now.
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