There are more myths about autoflowering strains than you’d think. Here’s some we’d like to address:
Autoflowering cannabis strains have changed the way cannabis is grown around the world. However, some growers are skeptical about their quality and the internet is full of myths and rumors arguing that autoflowers are less potent, hardscrabble, and so on.
1Myth: Autoflowering strains are less potent
2Myth: Autoflowering strains produce low yields
3Myth: Auto strains can’t be transplanted
4Myth: Autoflowering strains don’t flower in time
5Myth: Autoflowering strains cannot be cloned
6Myth: Autoflowering cannabis buds are tasteless
Myth 1: AUTOFLOWERING STRAINS ARE LESS POTENT
This is probably the most common myth circulating among the cannabis community, and we’re glad to say it’s not true. This rumor most likely generated around the time of the release of the original Lowryder strain. A cross between Northern Lights #2, William’s Wonder, and a ruderalis variety, this is often considered one the first autoflowering strains to hit the market. Lowryder is a medicinal strain designed to help relieve symptoms of stress, insomnia, and pain. It was released over 10 years ago, and was originally less potent than some of the other cannabis varieties on the market at that time, producing light cerebral effects, that had a characteristically slow onset. However, a lot has changed since the days wen Lowryder first hit the streets. Today, autoflowering varieties have significant cannabinoid profiles, which can be rich in THC, CBD, and a variety of other compounds just like their feminized counterparts.
Myth 2: AUTOFLOWERING STRAINS PRODUCE LOW YELDS
This is another common myth about auto cannabis strains, and again we’re happy to say it is false. Much like the previous myth, this one likely originated at the time when Lowryder was first released. Lowryder, as the name suggest, was designed to be a small plant similar to the cannabis equivalent of a bonsai for the discrete grower’s windowsill or balcony. It grew to heights of only about 40cm and hence produced much smaller yields than regular cannabis varieties. Some other autoflowering cannabis varieties followed suite, also featuring genetics, that left them reaching lower heights and consequently producing less bud than regular plants whole heights could be controlled with light. This is because most autoflowering varieties were traditionally created with stealth and speed in mind.
Today, while some autoflwoering varieites still display these traits, others have been expertly bred to produce notable yeilds of highg-quality weed. Thanks to more advanced ways of breeding autoflwoers, new varieties can grow just as tall as regular photoperiodic plants and produce similar yields. The main factors that’ll influence this is the genetics of your strain, the strength of your lights, and other factors of your grow environment.
Myth 3: AUTO STRAINS CAN'T BE TRANSPLANTED
This myth is partially true. Transplanting autoflowering cannabis strains is a little more complicated than repotting regular varieties. To avoid any complications during their grow cycle, cultivators are generally advised to plant their autoflowering seeds in a container they plan to use through to harvest time. However, it is possible to repot an autoflower, as long as you’re gentle and careful.
The biggest concern when repotting autoflowers is shocking the roots, which consequently stunts the plant’s growth for up to 7 days which is significant, because most live only between 60-90 days. However, letting your plants get rootbound can be just as detrimental to their growth. So, if you have an autoflowering plant sitting in a small container, that you think might get rootbound, don’t hesitate about transplanting it.
To minimize the negative effects of transplanting, remmeber the following tips:
- Always transplant your plants into the exact same soil or soilless grow medium.
- Transplant your plant before their dark period and when their soil is dry.
- Always pre-soak the medium you’re planning to move your plants into.
- Always ensure your transplanted plants aren’t sitting deeper in the soil than they were before.
- Transplanting them deeper can cause stem rot, which can further stunt their growth.
Myth 4: AUTOFLOWERING STRAINS DON'T FLOWER IN TIME
This myth is easy to debunk. Obviously, the flowering time of each strain varies. Most autoflowering varieties will be ready for harvest in between 60-90 days. When grown in a natural environment, any quality autoflowering plant will be ready for harvest when it should be.
However, the simple variables of a grow environment change that. A slight change in temperature nutrient dose, or water availability can have a big effect on the way an autoflowering plant develops. Meanwhile, transplant shock, draught, or shock from topping can obviously have even bigger effects on a plant’s growth cycle.
These factors can easily stunt a plant’s growth by anywhere from 7 to 10 days, which will then push back your harvest. Hence, it is really important to minimize the risk of any of these factors or deal with them quickly and effectively, should they occur.
Myth 5: AUTOFLOWERING STRAINS CANNOT BE CLONED
This myth isn’t true. It is possible to clone autoflwoering varieties by taking a small branch from a mother and letting it grow under a 24 hour cycle. However, noone realy bnothers to do this, as teh clones will usually produce lower yields than the mothers. That is why atuoflowering seeds are created from prvious seeds, not clones.
Myth 6: AUTOFLOWERING CANNABIS BUDS ARE TASTELESS
Some growers are quick to argue that autoflowering cannabis strains are “all smell”, lacking both flavor and effect. THis is definitely not ture. Buds from a decent autoflwoer created by a reputable breeder will have just as many complex aromas and flavors as those froma non-autoflowering variety. It all comes dwon to the individual strain and the skills behind the breeder who has created them.
