There are alot of cannabis plants grown in today’s world and a large production team behind every acre of them. Autoflower and photoperiod are two ways growers can produce beautiful buds on their farms.
Autoflowering cannabis plants require minimal effort and begin flowering within 8 to 10 weeks, but produce small yields. Photoperiod requires more maintenance, requires specific light and dark cycle periods, and grows in large yields.
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BUY INDOOR PLANT FOODThese two are used in growing cannabis plants for different reasons and are great for growing beautiful buds.
We are going to explain the difference between autoflower vs. photoperiod for you to decide the best growing method for your plants.
| Feature | Autoflower | Photoperiod |
| Growth cycle | Short (8-10 weeks) | Longer (10-14 weeks) |
| Light requirements | Can flower regardless of light cycle | Requires specific light cycle (12-14 hours of darkness) to flower |
| Size | Generally smaller | Can grow larger |
| Yield | Generally lower | Can produce higher yields |
| Complexity of growth | Easier to grow, less maintenance required | Requires more attention and care |
| Genetics | Ruderalis crossed with other strains | Sativa, Indica or hybrid |
| THC content | Lower on average | Can be higher on average |
What Are The Differences Between Autoflower Vs Photoperiod?
Autoflower doesn’t need alot of attention, it flowers fast and grows in small yields whereas photoperiod needs extra attention, is harder to grow, requires specific light-to-dark cycles, and produces larger yields of cannabis buds.
Autoflowers are great for new growers who want to start growing and offer them fast-growing periods with minimal yields.
Photoperiod is ideal for intermediate and advanced growers who want better quality and higher yield potential.
What Are Autoflowers?
Autoflowers grow regardless of how much darkness or light it receives and produces quick flowers in smaller yields.
Autoflowering takes about 2 to 4 weeks to germinate and is ready to harvest within 8 to 10 weeks. This method doesn’t require attention to light cycles since it can grow well, regardless.
Autoflowers come about by crossbreeding distinct cannabis subspecies like the ruderalis. These subspecies of flowers are more dependent on age than light cycles. It’s why autoflower plants flower fast and grow buds within the 8-week window.
You can usually get autoflower seeds to grow these at various times of the year or all year round. These seeds can come in high THC content or high CBD content and give users variety.
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BUY INDOOR POTTING SOILWhat’s Photoperiod?
Photoperiod cannabis plants take 10 to 14 weeks to harvest, are grown with attention to detail, and need extra care requiring specific amounts of light within 24 hours.
You have more control over the flowering process by giving the plants the right amount of light-to-dark cycles. You can maintain the plant’s flowering stage which can give you larger yields, potency, and terpenes. You can control the length of the flowering stage and when you can begin harvesting.
It does take longer for the plants to get to where it needs to be since it requires 18 hours of light and 6 hours in darkness during the vegetative stage.
When the next stage occurs, the plants need 12 hours in light and 12 hours in darkness to begin the flowering process.
Is Autoflowers Superior To Photoperiod?
Photoperiods are superior since they take longer to grow, but give you more control and produce higher yields in terpenes, THC content, flavonoids, and other pivotal components.
Autoflowers can be great for new growers looking to begin growing cannabis all year round with minimal hassle.
More Marijuana Resources
Looking for the best supplies to grow cannabis? Houseplant Resource Center has you covered.
We sell high-quality gardening supplies for any type of grower. We love helping cannabis enthusiasts cultivate their first plants. Check out our Amazon Store to learn more about our products.
If you’re a cannabis grower wanting to learn about the ins and outs of growing, you can register for our free Ultimate Marijuana Home Growing webinar.
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