Cannabis plants have different stages of growth, all with their unique qualities that you perhaps want to understand. Below, we'll break down each growth stage so you can identify what a cannabis plant looks like at each stage of the cycle.
What Does A Cannabis Plant Look Like?
Not all cannabis plants look the same, and their appearance can vary depending on their strain. Typically, they have serrated, fan-like leaves and a bushy structure and may grow tall with multiple branches.
The leaves are a defining feature and are usually a vibrant green. However, some strains can display hues of purple or even blue under certain conditions, especially as they approach the flowering stage. These colour variations can be influenced by temperature, pH levels, and the specific strain’s genetics.
Marijuana Plant Growth At Each Stage
Cannabis plants grow through several stages of weed plant development, with each showing different physical changes. Here’s what you can expect to see during each phase:
Germination
During germination, seeds split open, revealing a tiny root. The plant is small and fragile at this stage. After a few days, the sprout will begin to push through the soil, revealing the first set of leaves known as cotyledons.
Seedling
At this stage, the plant begins to develop its iconic serrated leaves. So, what does a young cannabis plant look like? A young cannabis plant will be small, thick, with only a few leaves, a short stature, and will still be fragile.
However, it should still be a vibrant green colour. Proper care is essential at this point to ensure healthy growth.
Vegetative Stage
During the vegetative phase, the plant focuses on growing tall and strong. You’ll notice thick stems and more leaves, giving it a bushier appearance. This is when the cannabis plant takes on the look of a typical pot plant, with vibrant green foliage spreading outwards.
Pre-flowering
The pre-flowering stage is when the plant starts to prepare for flowering. You may notice the first signs of whether your plant is male or female as small buds start to form. The plant's growth will slow as it focuses on developing its reproductive parts.
Flowering
This is the stage where cannabis plants start to produce buds. Female plants will develop resin-covered flowers, while male plants will produce pollen sacs. The flowering stage is a critical period for growers, as the buds are the most valuable part of the plant.
Male vs Female Marijuana Plants
Male cannabis plants and female cannabis plants have a few key differences. Female plants produce the buds used in cannabis products, while male plants produce pollen sacs. Here’s how to tell them apart:
- Female Cannabis Plants:
- Produce buds that are used in cannabis products.
- Have small white hairs (pistils) emerging from the nodes.
- They're usually more desirable for cultivation as they produce high-quality buds.
- Male Cannabis Plants:
- Produce round pollen sacs.
- Lack the white pistils found in females.
- They are typically removed from the crop to avoid pollination, which can affect the quality of the female plants' buds.
Identifying these early can help prevent accidental pollination and will give a high-quality yield.
What Does Good Weed Look Like?
Good-quality cannabis is easy to spot. Here's what to look for:
- Dense, sticky buds covered in trichomes give them a frosty or crystalline appearance.
- Vibrant colours that range from green to purple hues, depending on the strain.
- Strong aroma, often indicating freshness and potency.
- Healthy leaves with no signs of discolouration or yellowing, which can indicate nutrient deficiencies or poor plant health.
- Well-formed buds, with no signs of mould, pests, or dryness.
Plants with dull colours or signs of damage can indicate poor quality or improper care during growth.
How Long Does It Take For Cannabis To Show Signs of Flowering?
Typically, cannabis plants begin to show signs of flowering after six to eight weeks of growth, depending on the strain and growing conditions. You’ll notice the first buds forming as the plant enters the flowering phase. Regular monitoring during this time ensures the plant continues to develop properly.
In Summary
Cannabis plants have a fascinating growth process, from tiny seedlings to fully matured flowering plants. By understanding each stage of growth, you’ll be able to easily identify what a cannabis plant looks like.
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FAQs
How Big Do Marijuana Plants Get?
Marijuana plants can vary in size, from a few feet to as tall as six or more feet, depending on the strain and growing conditions.
What Does a Cannabis Leaf Look Like?
A cannabis leaf is easily recognisable with its long, narrow, serrated edges. Typically, a mature leaf has between seven to nine ‘fingers’ or leaflets.