EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT PHOTOPERIOD CANNABIS

Photoperiod strains excel in size and productivity when compared to autoflowers. While they require a bit more expertise to cultivate, the extra effort is well worth the reward. Below, we dive into the unique characteristics of photoperiod strains and share our top 10 feminized photoperiod picks—perfect for those curious to explore!

GROWING

Photoperiod strains are considered slightly more challenging to grow than autoflowers due to their need for a specific light cycle to initiate flowering. These plants grow taller and often require more hands-on care, such as pruning and training, to manage their size and shape.

However, photoperiod strains offer growers more control. As long as they receive 18+ hours of light daily, they remain in the vegetative stage, giving indoor growers the ability to cultivate large, robust plants. Once ready to flower, simply switch the light cycle to 12 hours on and 12 hours off.

Alternatively, a consistent 12/12 light cycle from the start can yield smaller, faster-growing plants—ideal for those looking to save space or keep things discreet.

The growth characteristics of photoperiod strains vary widely due to their diverse genetic background. These strains are typically categorized into two subspecies: indica and sativa.

Sativas thrive in outdoor environments, where they can stretch to impressive heights of up to 3m, resembling small trees. Indicas, on the other hand, are more compact, growing to around 100–150cm, and perform well both indoors and outdoors.

APPEARANCE

Sativa plants are tall and slender, with wide spacing between nodes and long, thin-fingered fan leaves. Indicas, by contrast, are shorter and bushier, with dense lateral growth and broad, wide-fingered leaves.

While traditional cannabis culture associates sativas with uplifting effects and indicas with relaxation, the reality is more nuanced. These effects often depend on terpene profiles rather than physical traits, and pure sativa or indica strains are rare. Most modern varieties are hybrids, leaning toward either sativa or indica dominance, which influences both their appearance and effects.

YIELD

Photoperiod plants offer varying yields depending on their genetics. Sativa-dominant strains usually produce more flowers, with outdoor yields ranging between 1–4kg per plant and indoor yields around 500–600g/m² for smaller varieties.

Indica plants, while more compact, still deliver impressive harvests. Indoor growers can expect yields of 400–600g/m², while outdoor plants typically produce 400–2000g per plant, depending on the specific strain.

DIFFICULTY

Growing photoperiod strains demands greater attention to detail. While beginners can find success, starting with autoflowers might be a smoother introduction to cannabis cultivation.

Photoperiod growers need to carefully plan their vegetative stage and monitor their light schedules. Regular pruning and training are essential to prevent plants from becoming unmanageable. Additionally, large colas—though desirable—require optimal humidity control during flowering to avoid mold issues.

PROS

  • Exceptional production potential
  • Higher cannabinoid concentrations compared to autoflowers
  • A wide variety of strains
  • Ability to clone and maintain indefinite vegetative growth
  • Offers a more traditional and immersive growing experience

CONS

  • More challenging for beginners
  • Longer time from seed to harvest
  • Requires more maintenance and planning
  • Indoor growers must manually induce flowering

CHOOSE THE CANNABIS TYPE THAT SUITS YOU BEST

Deciding between autoflowers and photoperiod cannabis strains is ultimately a matter of personal preference and available resources. If you're working with limited space—such as an apartment—autoflowers may be the better option due to their compact and low-maintenance nature.

However, growers with larger outdoor spaces might embrace the challenge of cultivating towering sativa plants. Alternatively, they could opt for autoflowers to maintain a stealthier profile by growing plants that stay in line with surrounding vegetation.

Armed with this knowledge, you're ready to make an informed choice. Best of luck, and happy growing!