Breakdown of the Flowering Stage 

The flowering stage is a crucial phase in the life cycle of flowering plants, where they transition from the vegetative growth phase to the reproductive phase, producing flowers that eventually lead to the formation of seeds or fruits. Fertilization plays a vital role during this stage, as it directly impacts the quality and quantity of flowers and fruits produced.

Here is an overview of the flowering stage, with a focus on its fertilization needs:

1. Initiation of Flowering:

The flowering stage typically occurs after the vegetative growth phase, triggered by factors like day length, temperature, and hormonal changes within the plant.

When conditions are right, the plant starts producing flower buds.

2. Flower Development:

Flower buds go through a series of developmental stages, including bud formation, blooming, and senescence.

The flower’s structure consists of male parts (stamens) that produce pollen and female parts (carpels) that contain the ovaries.

3. Pollination:

Pollination is the transfer of pollen from the male stamen to the female stigma, which can occur through various mechanisms, including wind, insects, birds, or even self-pollination.

Successful pollination is critical for fertilization to take place.

4. Fertilization Needs:

Fertilization involves the fusion of male and female gametes (pollen and ovule) to form a zygote, which eventually develops into a seed.

Adequate fertilization is essential for the formation of viable seeds and high-quality fruits.

Plants require specific nutrients, with a focus on phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) during flowering. These nutrients support flower and fruit development. Proper soil testing and nutrient supplementation are essential to meet these needs.

5. Post-Fertilization:

Once fertilization occurs, the plant directs its energy towards seed or fruit development.

Proper care and maintenance, including continued nutrient supply, pest control, and disease management, are necessary to ensure the health of the developing fruits or seeds.

How Often Should You Fertilize Cannabis Plants in the Flowering Stage

With the overview of when to fertilize your cannabis, we can move to the actual frequency in this part. Long story short, you should fertilize cannabis plants once or twice a week during the flowering stage. For a more detailed guide, check the following instructions.

Understanding NPK Ratios

NPK stands for Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), and Potassium (K) ratios in fertilizers. The typical ratios for cannabis in the flowering stage are 5-20-5 or 5-25-10. You can tell there’s a huge part of phosphorus (P), as it promotes bud growth. Therefore, when purchasing a mixed fertilizer, ask for the ratio to better fit the flowering stage. 

Choosing Specialized Fertilizers

Opt for cannabis-specific flowering stage fertilizers with pre-determined NPK ratios. Sometimes, secondary nutrients like iron, magnesium, sulfur, calcium, manganese, and copper can be added for additional benefits.

Fertilizing Cannabis Flowers from Week 6 to 8

When is the first time to add the fertilizer during the flowering stage? In weeks 6 and 7 of flowering, the cannabis plants are ready for harvest. To benefit from a fruitful yield, you can add fertilizers during this time. 

When to Stop Fertilizing Cannabis Plants:

• Limit fertilization three weeks before harvesting cannabis plants.
• Stop fertilizing completely two weeks before harvest.
• “Flush” the plants by watering with plain water to remove excess salts and minerals.

Conclusion 

To sum up, you should fertilize cannabis plants 1-2 times per week during the flowering stage. What’s more, keeping a balanced ratio of certain elements such as Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), and Potassium (K) is beneficial for satisfying results. Two weeks before harvesting, you should stop fertilizing the plants. 

FAQs about How Often to Fertilize in Flowering Stage

• How often do you add nutrients during flowering?

While the criteria vary on different occasions, generally, you should aim to fertilize cannabis plants once or twice a week during flowering. However, it’s important to monitor your plants closely. Adjust the frequency based on their specific needs and the instructions provided with your chosen fertilizer.

• Should you water more or less during flowering?

More water. Cannabis plants may require slightly more water during the flowering stage due to increased nutrient uptake and growth. 

• What is the best fertilizer for the flowering stage?

The best fertilizer for the flowering stage of cannabis often comes with a balanced NPK ratio, such as 5-20-5 or 5-25-10. These fertilizers provide the necessary nutrients, with an emphasis on phosphorus and potassium, to support bud development.

• Should I use nutrients every time I water?

No, using nutrients every time you water is not necessary and can lead to over-fertilization, which can harm your cannabis plants. Instead, many growers adopt a pattern of feeding with nutrients during one watering and then providing plain water during the next to help prevent nutrient buildup in the soil.