When it comes to determining the ideal height for switching plants to the flowering stage, there are a few factors to consider. The height at which you switch your plants depends on the strain you are growing, specifically whether it is a sativa or indica dominant variety.
Sativas are known for their vigorous growth and tend to stretch significantly during the flowering stage. Therefore, it is recommended to switch sativas when they reach a height of around 30-45cm. By switching them at this height, you allow them enough room to continue their growth and prevent them from outgrowing your grow space. If you were to switch them any taller, you may risk running out of vertical space, leading to difficulties in managing the height during flowering.
On the other hand, indicas are generally shorter and bushier in stature. They don’t stretch as much during flowering compared to sativas. For indicas, it is advisable to switch them when they reach a height of approximately 100cm. By allowing indicas to grow taller in the vegetative state, you give them more time to develop a sturdy structure and maximize their potential yield.
It’s important to note that these height recommendations are approximate and can vary depending on various factors such as genetics, growing conditions, and personal preferences. Some growers may choose to switch their plants slightly earlier or later based on their specific goals.
In my personal experience, I have found that sticking to these general guidelines has yielded successful results. However, it is always crucial to monitor your plants closely and adjust accordingly based on their individual growth patterns. Each strain and even each plant within a strain can exhibit slightly different growth characteristics, so it’s essential to be flexible and adapt your approach as needed.
To summarize, sativas should generally be switched to flower when they reach a height of 30-45cm, while indicas can be switched when they reach around 100cm. These recommendations allow for optimal growth and ensure that your plants have enough space to flourish during the flowering stage. Remember to consider other factors such as strain genetics, available grow space, and personal preferences when making the decision to switch your plants to the flowering phase.