My last few autoflower grows have produced some mixed results. From varied sizing and completion dates to lighter-than-normal buzz density, there have definitely been some interesting results that I want to continue to build on!
I learned a bit from my last autoflower (Blueberry Auto) grow, and I want to try and implement some progressive changes to this Green Gelato Auto!
My focus will be on 3 things throughout this plant’s lifecycle:
1. Experiment with products/methods to maximize Root Development
2. Find the best nutrient schedule with Ventana Plant Science, FlavUh, and Stash Blend
3. Hone in my home studio/photography for documentation
Here are some initial specifications for seeds, soil, nutrients, and grow environment:
Seeds: Green Gelato 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
Day 1 to 20
Focus #1: Root Structure
My last few Autos have had very lacking root structures, and by no means did they maximize use of 3-gallon pots. The root bundles were a bit sad, and I know I can do better! For this grow, I am going to use a mix of Great White, DYNOMYCO, and Mykos. DYNOMYCO and Mykos will be mixed directly in my soil, while Great White will be added at different stages early on in my watering. I added around ¾ the recommended amount of DYNOMYCO and Mykos to do my best to ensure proper support without overkill. I used Great White in full for the first few water cycles.
Focus #2: Nutrients
As I have learned in my first few attempts at Autoflowers, you need to strike a very fine balance with nutrients. Some autos don’t need anything but great soil and care, while others need to be met with specific nutrients at specific times dependents on those classes signs cannabis give. I made the mistake over over-fertilizing a previous autoflower, and I would really tell the difference in general plant health. With Green Gelato, I am going to focus on refining my nutrient process a it, keeping the first 2 to 3 weeks nutrient free (expect for my standard 1 ml/gallon Tribus, which I use in everything).
For my nutrients, I am going to be using Ventana Plant Science (I love the starter kit). These nutrients work great! Like a chef tasting for salt in a tomato sauce or stew, I will be consistently reminding myself that “less is more” and “I can always add, but I can’t take away”. Hopefully an increase in sensitivity towards nutrient feeds will prevent any issues, over fertilization, or deficiencies. It’s all part of the fun of experimentation!
Focus #3: Photography Skills
This has less to do with the actual plant growth, and more to do with some general goals and run! I love taking growing pictures, timelapses, and close-up shots of cannabis plants, they are simply beautiful in their diversity and grandeur. However, my skills are lacking.
Over this, and a few other grow journals I am producing, I want to hone my skills, as well as work on developing my workstation to produce increasingly better images. I have already made some strides in consistency and lighting as well as continued to develop my workstation to make it easier to create some beautiful pictures. As you follow this grow journal, you will be following that process as well.
Here are my first steps towards those goals in a short Day 5 to Day 20 Timelapse video for Green Gelato Auto:
What are your thoughts on my goals, and my growth thus far with Green Gelato?
Stay tuned next week to see my progress and let me know your thoughts!
