BuildASoil: DIRECT SOWING NIGHTOWL AUTO FLOWER SEEDS IN A 3X3 GRASSROOTS BED (Season 5, Episode 5)

Autoflowers are a type of cannabis plant that automatically flowers after a certain period of time, regardless of the light cycle. People might prefer autoflowers because they can be easier to manage, often have a faster turnaround from seed to harvest, can be grown earlier in the outdoor season, work well for supplementary plants in a room, or simply because they enjoy growing them. They are seen as a versatile new tool in a grower's toolbox to address different problems.

The light cycle planned for growing autoflowers in this video series will be about 20 hours of light to provide a bit of downtime, but still capitalize on the Daily Light Integral (DLI) to maximize the production of the plants. Autoflowers can go 24 hours of light and still flower, so this schedule aims to optimize their growth while allowing some rest.

Environment control is essential because it significantly affects the quality and yield of the grow. The quality of the grow light, the setup of the environment, and adjustments based on specific cuts of the plant can all impact phenotypic expressions and overall plant health and productivity. Environment factors such as temperature, humidity, light intensity, and air circulation are among some of the variables that need to be managed for optimal plant growth and development.

Planting seeds directly into soil avoids the potential stress and damage associated with transplanting. This is particularly important for autoflowers, which have a shorter life cycle and are more susceptible to setbacks. Direct sowing can lead to stronger, more resilient plants as they develop their root systems in their final growing medium from the start.

The decision on whether to use high-tech or low-tech environmental controls in the grow tent will depend on the audience's preference. The video series can either showcase an automated setup through an app like Niwa, showing how to set the environment, or it can demonstrate a more basic approach using analog timers and manual fans, providing guidance based on the grow tent's weakest environmental link.

Multiple varieties of seeds were chosen to represent a typical home grower's preference for having variety in their harvest, allowing them to enjoy multiple flavors and experiences. It reflects the desire to have variety in their personal cannabis supply, similar to having a bar with different drinks available.

Seeds should be planted typically at a depth that is not too shallow but also not too deep, often about a half-inch to an inch is recommended. There is some debate among growers about the orientation, with some preferring to plant seeds with the pointed end up, so the emerging seedling has to bend and shed the seed cap more easily. Generally, it's important not to overthink it; the most crucial factor is to ensure consistent moisture and warmth for germination.