If you’re cultivating your own cannabis plant in Canada, that means that most of your plant’s growth cycle will typically take place during the spring and summer months. Weather changes drastically during this time period and temperatures can reach extreme highs in July and August. When temperatures get hotter than optimal, your cannabis plants will begin to show signs of heat stress. We’ve prepared a quick guide to help you recognize when your plants are overheating and how to avoid and fix this issue.
How do I know if my cannabis plant is overheating?
Pay attention to the leaves on your plant. When temperatures get too high, leaves may change colour from a healthy green to yellow or brown spotting, or they may even appear burnt in certain places. Leaves may also curl or fold inward when heat stressed. The fan leaves are usually the first part of the cannabis plant to show signs of stress or nutrient deficiency.
New, strange, unhealthy growth patterns can emerge when plants experience prolonged heat exposure. One example of this is that plants can generate new buds stacked on top of old ones (instead of beside) in what are referred to by some growers as “fox tails”. The result of this heat exposure can lead to airy growth that lacks potency.
How do I stop my cannabis plant from overheating?
Consistently monitor your cannabis plants for any signs of stress or heat damage. If you know that temperatures are going to be hotter than normal in the coming days, pay extra attention to your cannabis plants and take note of any changes. There are even some technology systems and smartphone apps that can help you monitor temperature, humidity, nutrient levels and more.
One important factor to track is humidity. Low humidity in cannabis plants can worsen the effects of heat stress. Ensuring your plant has optimal humidity levels and is fed enough water will help mitigate heat issues.
Adding fans to your grow room can improve circulation, ensuring that heat is evenly distributed among your plants. This lessens the chance of heat damage to your plants. Fans (acting as an artificial wind) can even help to strengthen cannabis plants and their stems. If you notice your plants overheating, try adding a small fan blowing over the tops of your plant canopy.
Adjusting where your plants are located or how they are positioned can also help mitigate heat stress and damage. Make sure that your plants are not too close to your artificial lighting if using grow lights (strive for maximum light exposure without overheating). If your plants are growing outdoors, consider giving them less sun exposure than usual or finding ways to make sun exposure more indirect. Make sure your plants are positioned in a manner that they are receiving wind or cool air from a fan. Allow fresh air to reach the roots of your plants to ensure they stay cool and healthy.
Happy growing! We hope this guide helps you diagnose and treat the symptoms of heat stress in your cannabis plants. Stay tuned for more helpful tips on how to #GrowAtHome from Pristine Seeds.
