Live to Plant

Let There be Light:
How Much Light Does Canna Plant Need to Thrive

Updated: March 3, 2023

Cannabis, also known as marijuana, has become a popular plant for cultivation. The plant requires a specific amount of light to thrive and produce high-quality buds. In this article, we will discuss how much light cannabis plants need to grow and produce quality buds.

Understanding the Importance of Light for Cannabis Plants

Light is an essential component of plant growth. It provides energy for photosynthesis and helps regulate the plant’s growth and development. Cannabis plants need a specific amount of light to grow and thrive. If they do not receive enough light or receive too much light, they may not grow properly or produce high-quality buds.

How Much Light Does Cannabis Need?

Cannabis plants require a certain amount of light each day to grow and produce quality buds. The amount of light required depends on the stage of growth the plant is in.

Seedling Stage

During the seedling stage, cannabis plants require approximately 16-18 hours of light per day. This will help them establish a strong root system and begin developing their leaves.

Vegetative Stage

During the vegetative stage, cannabis plants require approximately 18-24 hours of light per day. This will help them grow tall and develop a dense foliage.

Flowering Stage

During the flowering stage, cannabis plants require approximately 12 hours of light per day. This will help them initiate the flowering process and begin producing buds.

Types of Light for Cannabis

There are two types of light that cannabis plants need: natural sunlight and artificial light.

Natural Sunlight

Natural sunlight is the best type of light for cannabis plants as it provides a full spectrum of light that contains all the wavelengths required for photosynthesis. However, growing cannabis outdoors can be difficult due to factors such as climate, pests, and privacy concerns.

Artificial Light

Artificial lights are used to grow cannabis indoors. There are different types of artificial lights available, including fluorescent, high-pressure sodium (HPS), metal halide (MH), and LED lights. Each type of light has its advantages and disadvantages, but LED lights are becoming increasingly popular due to their energy efficiency and low heat output.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How many lumens do I need for my cannabis plants?

Lumens are not the best way to measure the amount of light your cannabis plants need as they only measure the brightness of the light source. Instead, you should measure the amount of PAR (Photosynthetically Active Radiation) that your plants receive per day.

Can I use regular household bulbs to grow cannabis?

No, regular household bulbs do not provide enough intensity or spectrum needed for cannabis plants to grow properly.

How far should my lights be from my cannabis plants?

The distance between your lights and your cannabis plants depends on the type of light you are using. Generally, HPS lights should be placed at least 12-24 inches away from your plants, while LED lights can be placed closer.

How long do I need to keep my lights on during the flowering stage?

During the flowering stage, cannabis plants require approximately 12 hours of darkness per day to initiate the flowering process. Therefore, you should keep your lights on for 12 hours per day during this stage.

Can I use natural sunlight and artificial light together?

Yes, you can use both natural sunlight and artificial light together to provide your cannabis plants with the optimal amount of light they need.

Conclusion

Cannabis plants require a specific amount of light each day to grow and produce quality buds. The amount of light required depends on the stage of growth the plant is in. There are different types of artificial lights available, but LED lights are becoming increasingly popular due to their energy efficiency and low heat output. By understanding how much light your cannabis plants need and providing them with the right type of light, you can ensure they grow strong and produce high-quality buds.