Introduction

Overview

Genetics: (Og Kush x Strawberry Diesel) x Ruderalis)

Type: Sativa Autoflower

Grow Timeline: 56 – 70 days from sprout

CBD Content: 2%

THC Content: 18%-25%

Height: Up to 4.25 ft

Yield: High

Flavor: Diesel, Earthy, Sweet

Terpene Profile:Complex

Difficulty to Grow:Beginner

Preparing the Grow Space

Step 1: Choose the Grow Space

Ensure vertical space for a potential height of up to 4.25 ft.
See NOTES below for more info on tents and lights.

Step 2: Set Up Lighting

Use LED or HPS lights set to an 18/6 or 20/4 light cycle.
See NOTES below for more info on tents and lights

Step 3: Control Climate

Maintain a temperature of 70-75°F and a humidity level of 60-70%.

Soil and Nutrient Preparation

Choose and Prepare Soil

Mix well-draining soil with Nature's Living Soil Autoflower Concentrate.  We recommend using the Living Soil method (see notes) if you are a beginner growing autoflowers.

Using Nature's Living Soil concentrate in conjunction with high-quality potting soil can provide a rich, balanced environment for your plants. Here are step-by-step instructions for preparing your soil using the Regular Living Soil method, where all the components are mixed together. For this example, we'll assume you are using a standard 5-gallon container, which roughly holds about 0.67 cubic feet or 5 gallons of soil.  3-5 Gallon containers work best with autoflowers.

 

Materials Needed:
Nature's Living Soil Concentrate
High-quality organic potting soil

5-gallon container or grow bag
Measuring cup or scale for weighing
Mixing container (large enough to hold all the soil and concentrate)
Gloves
Trowel or mixing tool

Instructions:

1: Calculate the Amount of Concentrate Needed

For a 5-gallon container, you'll need about 16 ounces (1 pound) of concentrate, based on the ratio of 3.2 ounces of concentrate per gallon of soil.

Amount of Concentrate Needed = 5 Gallons × 3.2 ounces/gallon = 16 ounces

2: Prepare the Mixing Container

Put on your gloves to ensure you're handling the materials in a clean manner.

Empty your high-quality potting soil into the mixing container.
See NOTES below “Potting Soil”

3: Add the Concentrate

Weigh out 16 ounces of Nature's Living Soil concentrate.

Sprinkle the concentrate evenly over the potting soil in the mixing container.

4: Mix the Soil and Concentrate

Use a trowel or similar mixing tool to thoroughly mix the potting soil and concentrate together. Make sure the concentrate is evenly distributed throughout the soil.

5: Fill Your Growing Container

Once the soil and concentrate are well-mixed, start filling your 3 to 5 gallon container or grow bag with the mixture.

Fill the container to about an inch below the rim to allow for watering.

6: Water the Soil

Thoroughly water the soil to activate the nutrients and microbes in the concentrate.

Allow excess water to drain out, ensuring the soil is moist but not waterlogged.

7: Plant Your Cannabis

Once the soil is prepared and watered, you're ready to plant your cannabis seeds or seedlings.

Optional: Use Soil Revival or Compost Teas for Enhanced Growth

You can use Soil Revival as an "instant compost tea" or in conjunction with the concentrate throughout the growth cycle.

To make compost teas from the concentrate, add 2 tablespoons per gallon of water. This can be used for periodic feeding or as a foliar spray.

By following these steps, you'll create a nutrient-rich living soil that should provide your plants with the essential nutrients they need for most of their life cycle. Monitor plant health and adjust water and additional nutrients as needed.

 

Planting and Germination

Step 5: Germinate Seeds

Timeline: 1-3 Weeks (Seedling Stage)

Detailed Germination Instructions:

Fill a sterile, unused cup with room temperature bottled water.

Carefully drop the seeds into the water, avoiding any contact with your fingers or other contaminants.

Place the cup in a dark, warm area, ideally between 70-80°F. Consider using a shoe box with some holes poked in it for this purpose.

Let the seeds soak until the tap root reaches about 1" in length. This usually takes between 7-10 days.

Use gloved hands or tweezers to transfer the seedling, ensuring the tap root faces downward when planting.

Step 6: Plant Seeds in Soil

Plant the germinated seeds about 1 inch deep into the pre-mixed soil.

Vegetative Stage

Timeline: 3-4 Weeks (Transition to Flowering)

Step 7: Initial Watering

Water with 2 cups per gallon of soil container.
*These are approximate measure and vary depending on the growing conditions. See watering in NOTES below

Step 8: Climate Control

Maintain a temperature of 70-80°F and a humidity level of 50-60%.

Step 9: Regular Watering

Water every 2-3 days with 2-3 cups per gallon of soil container.
*These are approximate measure and vary depending on the growing conditions. See watering in NOTES below

Step 10: Compost Tea

Apply Compost Tea made from the concentrate. Optionally use Soil Rivival "Instant Compost Tea"

 

Flowering Stage
Timeline: 4-10 Weeks (Flowering Stage)

Step 11: Observe Flowering

The plants will naturally transition to flowering around 3-4 weeks from germination.

Optional: Pre-Flowering Mini Flush

To prepare the soil for the introduction of Girl Flower Power, consider performing an optional mini flush with plain, pH 6.5 water.  Get pH reading of the water. See notes for mini-flush instructions.

Step 12: Climate Control

Maintain a temperature of 65-75°F and a humidity level of 40-50%.

Step 13: Adjust Watering

Water every 2-4 days with 3-4 cups per gallon of soil container.
*These are approximate measure and vary depending on the growing conditions. See watering in NOTES below

Step 14: Apply Girl Flower Power

Create a compost tea with Girl Flower Power, adding 2 tablespoons per gallon of water. This will help enhance the flowering buds and can be used once the plants have transitioned into the flowering stage.

NOTE: The optional mini-flush when flowering begins can help to ensure that the soil is in optimal condition to make the most out of the Girl Flower Power application. This will set the stage for a successful flowering phase. Harvest between 56-70 days from sprout (or 8-10 weeks from germination).

Harvest
Timeline: Post-Harvest

Step 15: Harvest Timing

Harvest between 56-70 days from sprout (or 8-10 weeks from germination).

Optional: Mini Flush

Perform a mini flush with plain, pH-balanced water 1-2 weeks before harvest.

Step 16: Climate Control

Lower humidity to 30-40% and maintain a temperature of 65-75°F one week before harvest.

Step 17: Harvest Procedure

Cut and hang the plant upside down in a dark, dry room.

Curing

Step 18: Curing

Trim and cure the buds in glass jars, keeping the jars in a dark, cool place.

If you have any more questions or need further clarification, feel free to ask. Happy growing!






NOTES

WATERING

Determining when your soil needs water is crucial for the health and productivity of your plants. Here are some methods and tips to help you figure out when it's time to water your soil.

 

Methods to Check Soil Moisture:

1. Finger Test:

Procedure: Insert your finger into the soil up to the first knuckle (about 1 inch).

Assessment:

If the soil feels dry, it's time to water.

If it feels moist, wait a day or two before checking again.

2. Trowel Test:

Procedure: Dig a small hole using a trowel or stick, going 2-3 inches deep.

Assessment:

If the soil at this depth feels dry, it's time to water.

If it's moist, you can hold off on watering for now.

3. Lift Test (for Potted Plants):

Procedure: Lift the container to gauge its weight.

Assessment:

A light container usually indicates dry soil and the need for watering.

A heavy container suggests that the soil is still moist.

4. Color Test:

Procedure: Look at the color of the soil.

Assessment:

Dark soil is generally moist.

Lighter soil is dry and likely needs watering.

5. Surface Dryness:

Procedure: Observe the soil surface.

Assessment:

If the surface looks dry and cracked, it's probably time to water.

If it looks dark and feels damp to the touch, you can wait.

6. Use a Moisture Meter:

Procedure: Insert a moisture meter into the soil.

Assessment:

Read the gauge to determine if the soil is dry, moist, or wet.

Follow the meter’s guidelines for your specific type of plant.

Additional Tips:

Frequency: Autoflowering cannabis plants often require more frequent but less heavy watering than photoperiod plants.

 

Overwatering: Be cautious not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot and other issues. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged.

 

Nutrients: If you're using Nature's Living Soil concentrates, your soil will already contain the essential nutrients. However, overwatering can leach these nutrients away.

 

Soil Revival and Compost Teas: If you find that your soil needs a nutrient boost, consider using Soil Revival as an "instant compost tea" or make compost teas from the concentrate (2 tablespoons per gallon of water) for additional feeding.

 

By using one or more of these methods, you can accurately determine when your soil needs watering, ensuring that your plants remain healthy and well-nourished throughout their growth cycle.


Water is a crucial factor in growing healthy cannabis plants. The type of water you choose can have a significant impact on the growth and health of your plants. Below are details about different types of water, along with their pros and cons, and tips for using them in cannabis cultivation.  Do a pH test of your water. Adjust water to a pH of 6.5

 

Tap Water:

 

Pros:

Easily accessible and cost-effective.

Contains some minerals and nutrients beneficial for plant growth.

Cons:

May contain chlorine, chloramines, and other potentially harmful substances.

The pH and hardness levels can be inconsistent and may require adjustments.

Tips:

It's advisable to leave tap water standing for at least 24 hours to allow chlorine to evaporate.

Regular testing and adjusting of pH and hardness levels is crucial for optimal plant growth.

Distilled Water:

Pros:

Free of minerals, contaminants, and bacteria.

Provides a clean slate, allowing precise control over nutrient levels.

Cons:

Lacks essential minerals, requiring additional nutrient supplementation.

Can be cost-prohibitive for large-scale growing operations.

Tips:

Ideal for growers who want precise control over their nutrient mix.

Be sure to add necessary nutrients, as distilled water lacks natural minerals essential for plant growth.  A good commercial Cal Mag should do the trick

Reverse Osmosis (RO) Water:

 

Pros:

Highly purified, with most contaminants and minerals removed.

Allows for precise control over nutrient levels, similar to distilled water.

Cons:

Requires an RO system, which can be expensive to install and maintain.

Like distilled water, lacks essential minerals and requires nutrient supplementation.

Tips:

Consider using RO water if your tap water is hard or has a high level of contaminants.

Remember to supplement with necessary nutrients and minerals to ensure healthy plant growth. .  A good commercial Cal Mag should do the trick.

Spring Water:

 

Pros:

Naturally filtered and rich in essential minerals.

Typically has a balanced pH and a beneficial mineral content for cannabis growth.

Cons:

Can be expensive, especially for large-scale growing operations.

Quality and composition can vary between different brands and sources.

Tips:

Ideal for growers who prefer a natural water source with a balanced mineral content.

It's advisable to test the pH and mineral content of spring water to ensure it meets the needs of your cannabis plants.

In the context of using Nature's Living Soil products, you might consider using tap or spring water due to their mineral content which can complement the nutrients present in the organic concentrates. If opting for distilled or RO water, remember to thoroughly mix the concentrates with the soil and ensure the necessary nutrients are provided, as these water types lack essential minerals. When preparing compost teas with any of these water types, add 2 tablespoons of concentrate per gallon of water, as directed, to ensure your cannabis plants receive the necessary nutrients for healthy growth.

Resources
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=obx2pkfphCc



POTTING SOIL

*reprint from our blog

A GROWERS GUIDE TO CRAFTING THE PERFECT SOIL MIX: FAST-DRAINING VS. WATER-RETENTIVE WITH CUSTOM RECIPES

A GROWERS GUIDE TO CRAFTING THE PERFECT SOIL MIX:
FAST-DRAINING VS. WATER-RETENTIVE WITH CUSTOM RECIPES

Authored by Nature's Living Soil

Hey, soil enthusiasts and green thumbs! Nature's Living Soil is back with another deep dive into the world of soil science. Whether you're growing cannabis, vegetables, or ornamental plants, the soil you use is the foundation of your garden. So let's get into the nitty-gritty of crafting the perfect soil mix for your needs, and explore the pros and cons of fast-draining and water-retentive soils.

 

The Basics: What's in the Mix?

Before we get into the recipes, let's talk about the star of the show: Nature's Living Soil concentrates. These concentrates are packed with essential nutrients, beneficial bacteria, and fungi. They contain Worm Castings (Vegan compost for KVS), Dolomite Lime, and Blood Meal (vegan alternatives for KVS), all designed to form symbiotic relationships with your plants. The recommended dosage is 1.5 to 3 ounces of concentrate per gallon of your base mix depending on desired strength.

 

Pros and Cons: Fast-Draining vs. Water-Retentive

Fast-Draining Soil

Pros:

Quick Drying: Reduces the risk of root rot and fungal diseases.

Oxygen Availability: Allows more oxygen to reach the roots, promoting healthy growth.

Nutrient Uptake: Easier to control nutrient levels as excess nutrients are drained away.

Cons:

Frequent Watering: Requires more frequent watering, which can be labor-intensive.

Nutrient Leaching: Risk of essential nutrients being washed away.

Not Ideal for Dry Climates: May dry out too quickly in arid conditions.

Water-Retentive Soil

Pros:

Less Frequent Watering: Ideal for busy gardeners or automated systems.

Nutrient Retention: Holds nutrients well, providing a constant supply to plants.

Good for Humid Climates: Maintains moisture levels effectively.

Cons:

Risk of Overwatering: Can lead to root rot if not managed properly.

Less Aeration: May require additional aeration methods.

Potential for Salt Build-up: Less flushing of the soil can lead to salt accumulation.

Recipe for Fast-Draining Soil:

Ingredients:

Coco Coir: 40% - Excellent for fast drainage.

Perlite: 40% - Increases drainage and aeration.

Compost: 20% - Adds organic matter and nutrients.

Concentrate: 1.5 to 3 ounces per gallon of the mix.

Steps:

Mix the Coco Coir, Perlite, and Compost together in the specified ratios.

Add 1.5 to 3 ounces of Nature's Living Soil concentrate per gallon of your Coco Coir, Perlite, and Compost mix.

Moisten the mix slightly with pH-balanced, non-chlorinated water.

Recipe for Water-Retentive Yet Aerated Soil:

Ingredients:

Peat Moss: 40% - Good for water retention.

Vermiculite: 40% - Retains water while aiding aeration.

Earthworm Castings: 20% - Can be substituted for compost.

Concentrate: 1.5 to 3 ounces per gallon of the mix.

Steps:

Mix the Peat Moss, Vermiculite, and Earthworm Castings together.

Add 1.5 to 3 ounces of Nature's Living Soil concentrate per gallon of your Peat Moss, Vermiculite, and Earthworm Castings mix.

Moisten the mix slightly with pH-balanced, non-chlorinated water.

The Final Word

Choosing between fast-draining and water-retentive soil depends on your specific needs, but with Nature's Living Soil concentrates, you can customize either type to be nutrient-rich and full of beneficial microbes. For an extra boost, consider making a compost tea from the concentrates (2 tablespoons per gallon of water) or use our Soil Revival as an "instant compost tea."

 

So, there you have it, folks! The ultimate guide to crafting the perfect soil mix for your garden. Happy growing! 🌱




LIGHTS AND TENT SIZES


The size of the grow light you need depends on various factors including the size of your grow tent, the type of plants you are growing, and the stage of growth they are in. Below is a general guide to help you determine the size of the lights you'll need for different sizes of grow tents.

 

Small Tents (2x2 to 3x3 feet)

LED: 100-200 watts

HID: 250-400 watts

CFL: 150-200 watts

These smaller tents are generally good for growing 1-3 plants, and low wattage lights work well for these setups.

 

Medium Tents (4x4 to 5x5 feet)

LED: 450-600 watts

HID: 600-1000 watts

CFL: 300-400 watts

These tents can house more plants, or give fewer plants more room to grow. They require a bit more power to provide adequate light for optimal growth.

 

Large Tents (6x6 feet and above)

LED: 600-1200 watts (or more, depending on the setup)

HID: 1000-1200 watts (or more, depending on the setup)

CFL: Not usually recommended for large-scale growing due to inefficiency

For large tents, you may also consider using multiple lights to ensure even light distribution.

 

Additional Tips:

Light Spectrum: Make sure the lights cover the full spectrum of light that plants need for photosynthesis. This is especially important if you are growing cannabis, as different stages of growth require different light spectrums.

 

Adjustable Height: Make sure the lights are adjustable in height so you can keep the right distance between the light and the plant canopy as they grow.

 

Light Timer: To simulate natural light conditions, consider getting a light timer to automatically turn your lights on and off.

 

Remember, these are general guidelines and the specific requirements may vary based on the type of plants you are growing, their stage of growth, and the growing conditions. Always read the manufacturer's guidelines for any lighting system you choose.

CURING YOU HARVEST

Curing cannabis is a critical step to develop the flavor, aroma, and potency of the buds after they have been harvested. Proper curing also ensures that the cannabis is safe from mold and mildew. Here is a step-by-step guide for curing cannabis.

 

Pre-Cure Preparation:

Harvesting: Cut the branches of your cannabis plant when they are ready for harvest.

 

Trimming: Manicure the buds by trimming off the excess leaves. The more precise your trim, the smoother your final product will be.

 

Drying: Hang the trimmed branches upside down in a dark, well-ventilated room with a consistent temperature of around 60-70°F (15-21°C) and humidity of around 50-55%. This usually takes 7-14 days.

 

Curing Steps:

Step 1: Initial Jar Curing

Jar Selection: Use wide-mouth mason jars or similar airtight glass jars. Make sure they are clean and dry.

 

Filling the Jar: Fill each jar about ¾ full of buds. Do not pack them too tightly.

 

Sealing and Storing: Seal the jars and store them in a dark, temperature-controlled environment (ideally around 60-70°F or 15-21°C).

 

Initial Opening: Open the jars once a day for the first week to let them breathe for about 15 minutes. This is known as "burping." Check for any signs of mold or mildew and remove affected buds immediately.

 

Step 2: Secondary Curing and Maintenance

Long-term Storage: After the first week, reduce the frequency of burping to once a week.

 

Humidity Check: If possible, use a hygrometer inside the jars to ensure that the humidity stays between 60-65%. If humidity is too high, you may need to open the jars more frequently.

 

Duration: The longer you cure, the better the flavor and potency. A minimum of two weeks is generally recommended, but many connoisseurs recommend curing for 4-8 weeks or more.

 

Optional: Enhance with Soil Revival or Compost Teas

Compost Teas: If you used Nature’s Living Soil concentrates for growing your cannabis, you can also make compost teas (2 tablespoons per gallon of water) and use it up to two weeks before harvest to improve yields and potency.

 

Soil Revival: This probiotic and biostimulant can also be used in conjunction with concentrates or by itself up to two weeks before harvest as a sort of "instant tea."

 

Step 3: Long-term Storage

Seal and Store: Once you are satisfied with the cure, you can seal the jars and store them in a cool, dark place for long-term storage.

 

Regular Checks: Continue to check the buds for mold or mildew and ensure the jars are sealed tightly.

 

By following these steps, you will ensure that your cannabis is well-cured, which will improve its taste, aroma, and overall experience. Remember, curing is an art as much as it is a science, so feel free to adapt these guidelines to best suit your needs.