Marijuana grows in most soils; however, it does not do as well without sufficient nutrients. In fact, a lack of nutrients can cause the plant to die. Also, the plant needs proper drainage to survive.
In terms of soil, there are many options to choose from. Those who are new to growing cannabis don’t need to spend lots of money to get the best soil for cannabis. With a bit of extra knowledge and supplies, they can create soil that is better than what they can buy in stores.
Importance of Having the Right Soil
As with other plants, marijuana plants need soil to grow, together with water and light While options such as hydroponics do not require soil, using soil is an affordable way for people to get started in growing marijuana to ensure the healthiest plants and highest yields.
A lot of beginners buy soil at the store. They get whatever bag is on sale or use soil they have outdoors. Although this soil is fine, it may not contribute to a higher yield and it may not have the nutrients the plant needs to be healthy. And even if the plant will grow fine, the cannabis obtained from the plant may not have a high THC level. This can happen no matter the quality of seeds you invest in.
Moreover, outdoor soils can have diseases that can be detected only when the plant begins to show symptoms. When this happens, it might be too late to save the plant. Also, the soil can have small microorganisms and other pests.
Quality Soil for Cannabis
Natural soil is available in different varieties including sandy, clay, loam, and silt.
A lot of soils have a combination of at least two of the following types:
- Sandy soils. This type of soil has a big granular size and a low pH. It dries quickly and usually experiences difficulties in moisture absorption. Also, the nutrients get washed away. But, this soil is easy to prepare for cultivation, provides good drainage, and contains high oxygen levels.
- Silt soils. This kind of soil contains minerals like quartz and fine organic particles. It has decent drainage is easy to work with when wet.
- Loam soils. This is a combination of sandy, clay, and silt. When squeezed, it forms a loose ball that quickly threatens to break apart.
- Clay soils. This is an organic option for cannabis composed of fine crystalline particles made through chemical reactions among minerals and other natural resources.