What is the best sized pot for autoflower seeds?

Picking the right pot for autoflower seeds is like choosing the perfect shoes for a marathon. Get it wrong, and your cannabis plants might just give up mid-race! In a nutshell, autoflowering plants prefer pots in the 3-5 gallon range.

But wait, don’t dash off to buy pots just yet! In this article, we'll break down the reasons behind this magic range. You’ll discover how pot size affects root growth and why that’s a big deal. We’ll also explore the Goldilocks principle – not too big, not too small – and how it applies to drainage and water retention.

Fasten your seat belts and prepare for a speedy trip through the highway of pot dimensions and smart choices for your autoflower seeds. Buckle up!

Plant into the Size Pot that You are Going to Harvest in

Autoflower plants have a temperament akin to a delicate instrument. They hate  being uprooted! The solution is to avoid transplanting them at all costs. Autoflowers can get seriously stressed when transplanted, and stress is the last thing you need in your garden. Why? Stress leads to stunted growth, greater susceptibility to disease and ultimately, a dismal yield. The ideal way is to germinate autoflower seeds and let them fully grow in the same container until the day they’re ready for harvest.

Flower Pot Sizes Chart

Selecting the perfect pot size is an art. Here’s a handy chart to help you decide:

What Size Pot to use for Autoflowers Indoor?

If you’re cultivating autoflowering weed indoors, small or medium pots are your allies. They let you maximize the space, allowing you to grow more plants. This is especially the case if you are growing in a tent or fixed area. Mature Autos take up around 4 sq ft per plant, so if you also have big wide pots , you’ll find your tent overcrowded very quickly.  Besides, there are different training methods to enhance yields even in smaller pots. You can try the Sea of Green (SOG), Screen of Green (ScrOG), or Low-Stress Training (LST). SOG involves growing many small plants in close proximity, ScrOG uses a screen to keep plants shorter and well-spaced, and LST involves bending and tying the plants to control their shape.

What Size Pot to use for Autoflowers Outdoor?

When it comes to outdoor growing, bigger is often better. Large or huge pots are the way to go. They provide ample space for root growth, leading to a larger plant and potentially higher yields. The natural environment can often support this growth, provided that you give your plants what they need in terms of nutrients and protection.

What is the Best Type of Pot for Autoflowers?

Different pots have their perks. Here are some of the most common types with a quick pros and cons for each.

Hempy Buckets

Hempy Buckets offer excellent drainage, and their simplicity makes them easy to use. They are basically any non-transparent container with a hole for drainage. They are cheap and quite effective for growing autoflowers. However, they don’t allow much airflow to the roots. These are fantastic for beginners growing weed on a budget.

Smart Pots

Smart Pots are fabric containers that enable superior airflow to the roots, promoting healthy growth. They have good drainage but require frequent watering. This is not as bad as it sounds, because of the way they are made, you cannot OVER water them. Great for newbies who have a tendency to be a bit keen with the hose! Smart Pots are slightly pricier but are great for those aiming for a higher yield. They’re suitable for both beginners and experienced growers.

Air Pots

Air Pots, with their unique design, maximize root growth by air pruning. This increases nutrient uptake. They have excellent drainage and airflow but require more frequent watering. Air Pots are on the pricier side and are best suited for experienced growers seeking high yields.

Terracotta Pots

Terracotta pots are classic. They offer good airflow and are hefty, which is great for stability. On the downside, they can dry out quickly and are breakable. They're relatively cheap and best for those who prefer a more traditional approach.

How Do I Make My Autoflower Yield Bigger?

The use of proper training methods can also play a significant role in enhancing yield. Techniques like LST (Low Stress Training) can keep the height in check while maximizing the yield. Providing the right nutrients, especially during the flowering stage, is also crucial.

Nutrient Management

Your autoflowers need different nutrients in different stages of their growth. For instance, nitrogen is essential during the vegetative phase, while phosphorus and potassium are critical during the flowering stage. So, it's essential to use the right fertilizers at the right time.

Light Management

Autoflowers don’t rely on light cycles to start flowering, but more light usually means a bigger yield. Ensure they receive ample bright light for the maximum number of hours. Indoors, powerful LED lights can be your best bet. Outdoors, choose a spot that receives plenty of sunlight.

Watering Practices

Watering is an art. Too much, and you risk root rot. Too little, and they dry out. Strike a balance. Allow the top inch of the soil to dry out between waterings.

Protection from Pests and Stress

Keep your plants stress-free by protecting them from pests. Use organic pesticides and create barriers if you are growing them outdoors. The healthier the plant, the better the yield.

Optimize Your Environment

The environmental conditions – temperature and humidity – need to be just right. Autoflowers like a slightly humid environment and temperatures in the range of 68 to 77°F (20 to 25°C).

How Tall Do Autoflowers Get?

The height of autoflowers can be quite variable, ranging from 1 to 3.5 feet, or more if grown outside. To maximize yield, focus on factors like pot size, nutrients, and light instead of height. A short plant can still produce a substantial yield if it’s bushy and healthy.

Conclusion

Choosing the right autoflower pot sizes is the foundation of your growing success. Whether you’re growing indoors or outdoors, your choice of pot size and type can make a huge difference in yields. Smaller pots are better for indoor growers trying to save on space, while larger pots are ideal for outdoor growers seeking to maximize yield.

In terms of pot types, Hempy Buckets are excellent for beginners, while Smart Pots and Air Pots cater to those seeking higher yields. Terracotta Pots offer a traditional approach with good airflow.

Remember, achieving a bigger yield is not just about pot size, but also about how you manage nutrients, light, water, and protect your plants from pests and stress. Keep your plants healthy, and they will reward you generously.