Pick the right strains. Just like with other plants, there are some that respond better to warm climates and others are more geared towards the cold. Some strains that do well in cooler temps include Ice Cream Cake, Kush Mints, and GMO Cookies.
Temperature control is key. Cannabis plants need a temperature between 65 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit to grow, which means using a thermostat-controlled heater indoors, as well as a well-insulated, sheltered greenhouse for growing outdoors.
Lighting. Cannabis requires 12 hours of light daily to grow properly; light that needs to be modified at the appropriate intensity for the plant. High density LED grow lights are typically the standard to provide adequate lighting for growing plants.
Proper nutrition. Growing cannabis plants require a wide range of nutrients to be able to grow to their maximum potential, including nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Choosing a mix that is geared towards growing in cold weather is a safe bet.
Maintaining the right levels of humidity. Humidity is one of the more challenging aspects to handle in the cold weather, since cold weather climates tend to be very dry. But cannabis plants need between 40-60% humidity, so it is worth adding a humidifier to the mix to make sure the plants have what they need.
Watering. Watering in the cold weather can be easy to forget since we tend to associate watering more with hot weather. But giving cannabis plants just the right amount of water is crucial to their survival, without overwatering, as that will cause root rot.
While growing cannabis over the winter can be more high maintenance, it is possible to make quality plants with the right care and efforts.
Sources: MJBizDaily, Leafly, Leafwell, High Times, Leafly
