Plant cultivation is a fascinating and intricate process, with each stage requiring specific care to ensure healthy growth and a successful yield. Whether you're an experienced grower or just starting out, understanding the different phases of plant development can significantly impact the health and productivity of your plants.
At Go Green Hydro, we provide the best hydroponic systems, grow lights, and plant nutrients to help you grow thriving plants.
1. Germination: The Beginning of Life
The journey of plant growth starts with germination, typically lasting between 1 to 7 days, depending on conditions. Choosing mature seeds is essential—they should be dry, hard, and dark in color. Immature seeds (soft, white, or green) may not germinate properly.
How to Germinate Seeds Successfully
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Place seeds in a moist, dark environment.
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Some growers prefer soaking seeds in water, while others use the paper towel method.
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Once the seed splits open and a small root emerges, it’s ready for planting in a suitable propagation medium.
After a few days, the first leaves will appear, marking the transition to the seedling stage.
2. Seedling Stage: Establishing Roots
The seedling stage lasts around 2 to 3 weeks. During this time, the plant focuses on developing a strong root system. The first set of true leaves will grow, and once the plant has around 7 sets of leaves, it’s ready for the next phase.
At this stage, ensure your seedlings receive the right light spectrum and nutrients for healthy development.
Recommended Products for the Seedling Stage
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Propagation Trays & Domes – Protect young plants and maintain optimal humidity.
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LED Grow Lights for Seedlings – Provide gentle, full-spectrum lighting.
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Rooting & Cloning Gels – Encourage healthy root growth.
3. Vegetative Growth: Strength & Structure
The vegetative phase lasts between 2 to 8 weeks, depending on the chosen light cycle (typically 18 hours of light and 6 hours of darkness). During this phase, plants focus on developing stems, branches, and leaves—crucial for future flowering.
At Go Green Hydro, we recommend extending the vegetative phase if you want larger plants before transitioning to the flowering stage.
Essentials for the Vegetative Stage
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Loadstar LED Star 720W Fixture – Full-spectrum lighting for strong vegetative growth.
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Canna Aqua Vega Set – Hydroponic nutrients designed for healthy root development.
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Luxx Par-Stretch White Elasticated Scrog Net – Ideal for plant training to maximize light exposure.
4. Pre-Flowering: The Transition Phase
When the light schedule changes to 12 hours of light and 12 hours of darkness, plants enter the pre-flowering stage, lasting 1 to 4 weeks. During this phase, plants stretch in height and prepare for flowering.
If you are growing fruiting or flowering plants, this is the time when bud sites begin to form. Proper nutrient management is essential to ensure strong development.
5. Flowering: Bud & Fruit Formation
The flowering stage lasts between 7 to 9 weeks, depending on the plant variety. This is when plants stop stretching and redirect energy toward bud and fruit production. Essential plant metabolites, natural oils, and aromas start developing, giving the plant its distinctive characteristics.
Essentials for the Flowering Stage
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Advanced Nutrients Bloom Booster – Enhances bud production and improves flavor.
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Lumii Black Electronic Kit – High-pressure sodium (HPS) lighting for maximum growth.
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Evolution CO₂ Controller Kit – Increases photosynthesis for larger yields.
6. Harvesting: The Final Step
Knowing when to harvest is crucial for achieving the best possible results. The right timing ensures the plant's active compounds are at their peak.
How to Harvest Successfully
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Use sharp scissors or pruning shears to carefully cut branches.
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Trim excess leaves for better drying and curing.
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Store harvested material in a dry, well-ventilated space to prevent mold.
Harvesting Essentials
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Manual Bowl Trimmer – Speeds up trimming and ensures precision.
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Oksinto PRO H420 Pruning Scissors – For clean, damage-free cuts.
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Dry Net – Allows even drying and prevents spoilage.
Conclusion
Growing plants successfully requires patience, knowledge, and proper care at each stage of development. By understanding the six stages of plant growth, from germination to harvesting, you can optimize your hydroponic setup for healthier, more productive plants.
At Go Green Hydro, we are dedicated to supporting your gardening journey with top-quality hydroponic products, expert advice, and resources.
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