For those that have been following the start of my other journals (Green Gelato and Hyperion F1), you may see that this is actually the older plant of the three. That’s an astute observation and absolutely correct! I started this GDP Auto close to 4 weeks ago, so you’ll see some work in progress in the photo-documentation of my plants. Nonetheless, GDP Auto is looking great and I look forward to providing weekly updates, just like my other journals!
The first three weeks of my Grand Daddy Purple Auto grow have been all about building a strong foundation. After some less-than-ideal experiences with my last autoflower grow (where I tried to rush through LST), I’ve decided to take a much more patient and deliberate approach this time around.
Before we get into the journal, here are some initial specifications for seeds, soil, nutrients, and grow environment:
Seeds: Grand Daddy Purple from Royal Queen Seeds
Soil: Paonia Soil Co.: The Bomb 50/50 Mix
Nutrients:
Root Boosters and Blends Great White Mycorrhizal Fungi Root Enhancer, DYNOMYCO Premium Mycorrhizal Inoculant, Mykos Mycorrhizal Inoculant, Tribus Organic Microbial Inoculant
Main Nutrient System: Ventana Plant Science (VPS), FlavUh, Stash Blend
Grow Environment:
Light: AC Infinity IONBOARD S44 – LED Grow Light Board 400W
Tent: AC Infinity CLOUDLAB 642, Advance Grow Tent 4 x 2
Humidifier: AC infinity CLOUDFORGE T3
Ventilation and Circulation: AC Infinity CLOUDLINE T-Series Duct Fan 4 Inch, AC Infinity Duct Carbon Filter, Australian Charcoal, 4-Inch, AC Infinity CLOUDRAY A6, Gen 2 Grow Tent Clip Fan 6”
Pots: AC Infinity Heavy Duty Reusable Fabric Pots 1 Gallon
Weeks 1-3: My Grand Daddy Purple Auto: A Slow and Steady Start
Focus on Health & Minimizing Stress: My primary focus during these early weeks has been on fostering optimal plant health and minimizing any unnecessary stress. I’ve been meticulously monitoring her water needs and ensuring she receives consistent and ample light. Most recently, I watered with 750 ml PH balanced water with 1 ml/Gallon of Tribus and ½ tsp Great White.
Slow and Steady LST: I’ve been implementing low-stress training techniques gradually and carefully. Instead of aggressively bending and manipulating the plant, I’ve focused on gentle adjustments, allowing her to acclimate to the changes at her own pace. I have yet to find a plant wire that I like, holds up well, and can be driven into the soil to hold strength during the training process.
Early Observations: The plant is responding well to this slower approach. She’s showing signs of vigorous growth with healthy, vibrant green leaves. I’m particularly pleased with how she’s responding to the low-stress training. The branches are starting to spread nicely, and the plant is developing a strong and sturdy structure.
Have a look at this Day 2 to 28 timelapse to see how she is looking!
Looking Ahead: Throughout the next week, I’ll continue to monitor the plant closely and adjust my approach as needed. There may be a dose of Ventana Plant Science or Stash Blend, but I want to be sure to monitor the plant’s needs (especially with Nitrogen). I’m excited to see how she continues to develop and ultimately express her full genetic potential.