{ "name": "GenetixBay Knowledge Base", "version": 1, "generated": "2026-11-01T05:01:25Z", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/", "license": { "name": "CC BY-SA 4.0", "url": "https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/", "attribution": "GenetixBay Knowledge Base (genetixbay.com/knowledge)" }, "count": 191, "evidence_ladder": [ { "id": "established", "name": "Established", "meaning": "Multiple studies or extension consensus" }, { "id": "supported", "name": "Supported", "meaning": "Some research or strong grower consensus" }, { "id": "grower_practice", "name": "Grower practice", "meaning": "Widely used, little research" }, { "id": "contested", "name": "Contested", "meaning": "Evidence points both ways" }, { "id": "myth", "name": "Myth", "meaning": "Widely believed, not supported by evidence" } ], "categories": [ { "id": "guides", "name": "Start here", "description": "Step-by-step beginner guides: your first grow, week by week, with checklists", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/guides/", "count": 25 }, { "id": "basics", "name": "Basics", "description": "Plant biology, life cycle, photoperiod vs auto, sex, first grows", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/basics/", "count": 8 }, { "id": "germination", "name": "Germination", "description": "Seed viability, germination, seedlings, damping-off, transplanting", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/germination/", "count": 5 }, { "id": "environment", "name": "Environment", "description": "Temperature, humidity, VPD, airflow, CO₂ and light", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/environment/", "count": 10 }, { "id": "nutrients", "name": "Nutrients", "description": "Every element, deficiencies and toxicities, feed schedules, recipes", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/nutrients/", "count": 25 }, { "id": "ph-ec", "name": "pH and EC", "description": "pH, EC and ppm scales, water quality, runoff, drift", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/ph-ec/", "count": 7 }, { "id": "systems", "name": "Systems", "description": "Soil, coco, rockwool, living soil and every hydro system", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/systems/", "count": 16 }, { "id": "training", "name": "Training", "description": "Topping, LST, SCROG, SOG, mainlining, defoliation", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/training/", "count": 8 }, { "id": "pests", "name": "Pests", "description": "Identification, life cycles, thresholds and IPM", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/pests/", "count": 18 }, { "id": "diseases", "name": "Diseases", "description": "Mildew, botrytis, root rot, viruses and viroids, sanitation", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diseases/", "count": 7 }, { "id": "diagnosis", "name": "Diagnosis", "description": "Symptom-led decision trees: start here when something looks wrong", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diagnosis/", "count": 25 }, { "id": "harvest-cure", "name": "Harvest and cure", "description": "Ripeness, flushing evidence, drying, curing, storage", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/harvest-cure/", "count": 6 }, { "id": "breeding", "name": "Breeding", "description": "Genetics, pollination, selection, stabilisation, seed production", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/breeding/", "count": 21 }, { "id": "genetics-history", "name": "Genetics history", "description": "Landraces, heritage lines and lineages, with evidence labels", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/genetics-history/", "count": 10 } ], "articles": [ { "id": "kb-guides-autoflower-first-grow-week-by-week", "title": "Autoflower first grow, week by week", "category": "guides", "category_name": "Start here", "slug": "autoflower-first-grow-week-by-week", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/guides/autoflower-first-grow-week-by-week.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/guides/autoflower-first-grow-week-by-week.md", "summary": "A feminised autoflower runs about 9–14 weeks from seed to harvest on a fixed countdown from germination, so plant it straight into its final 11–19 L (3–5 gal) pot on day 1, never transplant, run 18/6 to 20/4 (24/0 also works) for the whole grow, and train with low-stress bending, not topping. Any setback costs time the plant can't get back.", "tags": [ "autoflower", "first-grow", "beginner", "week-by-week", "lst", "final-pot", "timeline", "checklist" ], "stage": [ "seedling", "veg", "flower", "harvest" ], "systems": [ "soil", "coco" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "Should I plant an autoflower straight into its final pot?", "Can I top an autoflower?", "What light schedule is best for autoflowers?", "How long does an autoflower take from seed to harvest?", "Are autoflowers good for beginners?", "When should I start training an autoflower?", "How much should I feed an autoflower?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-basics-photoperiod-vs-autoflower", "kb-germination-transplanting", "kb-training-lst", "kb-training-topping", "kb-environment-ppfd-dli-by-stage", "kb-harvest-cure-flush-debate" ], "sources_count": 7, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-guides-choosing-your-setup", "title": "Choosing your setup: tent, space and budget tiers", "category": "guides", "category_name": "Start here", "slug": "choosing-your-setup", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/guides/choosing-your-setup.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/guides/choosing-your-setup.md", "summary": "Choose the space first, then size everything to it. A 60 x 60 cm (2 x 2 ft) tent suits one or two plants and a 100–200 W LED; 80 x 80 to 90 x 90 cm (about 3 x 3 ft) suits two or three plants and 200–320 W; 120 x 120 cm (4 x 4 ft) suits two to four plants and 400–650 W. Size the exhaust fan to change the tent's air about once a minute, plus 25–50 % for the carbon filter and ducting.", "tags": [ "setup", "tent", "budget", "exhaust-fan", "carbon-filter", "led", "space", "beginner", "equipment" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "soil", "coco", "dwc" ], "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "What size grow tent should a beginner buy?", "How many plants fit in a grow tent?", "How big an exhaust fan do I need for my tent?", "How many watts of LED do I need per square foot?", "Can I grow without a tent?", "How much does a beginner grow setup cost?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-guides-first-grow-start-to-finish", "kb-guides-lights-for-beginners", "kb-environment-airflow", "kb-environment-ppfd-dli-by-stage", "kb-systems-choosing-a-system", "kb-guides-electrical-and-water-safety" ], "sources_count": 6, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-guides-climate-basics-vpd-cheat-sheet", "title": "Climate basics: temperature, RH and a VPD cheat sheet", "category": "guides", "category_name": "Start here", "slug": "climate-basics-vpd-cheat-sheet", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/guides/climate-basics-vpd-cheat-sheet.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/guides/climate-basics-vpd-cheat-sheet.md", "summary": "Run a grow room at about 24–27 °C (75–81 °F) and 65–75 % RH for seedlings, 22–28 °C (72–82 °F) and 55–70 % in veg, 20–26 °C (68–79 °F) and 45–55 % in flower, and 40–50 % RH in late flower, with nights 3–6 °C cooler. Those pairs land on a leaf VPD of roughly 0.4–0.8, 0.8–1.2 and 1.0–1.5 kPa. Use the cheat-sheet table below: read your air temperature and RH, find the leaf VPD, and adjust RH first.", "tags": [ "climate", "temperature", "humidity", "rh", "vpd", "cheat-sheet", "beginner", "dehumidifier", "airflow" ], "stage": [ "seedling", "veg", "flower", "ripen" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "What temperature should my grow tent be?", "What humidity should I run in each stage?", "What is a good VPD for cannabis?", "Do I need a VPD chart as a beginner?", "Do cold nights make buds purple or more terpy?", "Should I fix temperature or humidity first?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-environment-vpd-explained", "kb-environment-temperature-by-stage", "kb-environment-humidity-by-stage", "kb-environment-airflow", "kb-environment-heat-light-stress", "kb-diseases-botrytis-bud-rot" ], "sources_count": 7, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-guides-coco-first-grow-week-by-week", "title": "Coco first grow, week by week", "category": "guides", "category_name": "Start here", "slug": "coco-first-grow-week-by-week", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/guides/coco-first-grow-week-by-week.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/guides/coco-first-grow-week-by-week.md", "summary": "Coco is hydroponics that looks like soil: use buffered coco mixed about 70:30 with perlite, feed a complete mineral nutrient at every watering from day one at pH 5.8–6.2, and water to 10–20 % runoff before the pot dries out. Feed EC climbs from about 0.6–0.8 mS/cm for seedlings to 1.2–1.8 in veg and 1.6–2.2 in flower, fed right to harvest. Never let coco dry out completely.", "tags": [ "coco", "coco-coir", "buffering", "perlite", "runoff", "ec", "week-by-week", "fertigation", "beginner" ], "stage": [ "seedling", "veg", "transition", "flower", "ripen", "harvest" ], "systems": [ "coco" ], "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "Do I need to feed coco every time I water?", "What is the best coco to perlite ratio?", "Why do I need to buffer coco?", "How much runoff should I get in coco?", "How often should I water coco?", "What pH and EC should runoff be in coco?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-systems-coco", "kb-ph-ec-buffering-coco", "kb-ph-ec-runoff-testing", "kb-nutrients-cal-mag", "kb-guides-feeding-basics", "kb-guides-watering-how-much-how-often" ], "sources_count": 8, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-guides-curing-step-by-step", "title": "Curing step by step: a slow moisture decline, no humidity packs", "category": "guides", "category_name": "Start here", "slug": "curing-step-by-step", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/guides/curing-step-by-step.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/guides/curing-step-by-step.md", "summary": "Curing is a slow, steady decline in the bud's moisture, not a constant hold. Jar dried buds ¾ full at about aw 0.62–0.65, keep them dark at 15–21 °C (60–70 °F), burp daily for the first week, then every few days, then weekly, and let them settle towards aw 0.55–0.58 over 2–8 weeks. Judge the bud by an equilibrated jar reading, not the room. Skip humidity packs; if a jar is too dry, add a fresh bud.", "tags": [ "curing", "burping", "jars", "water-activity", "humidity-pack", "storage", "beginner" ], "stage": [ "cure" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "How do I cure cannabis step by step?", "What humidity should my curing jars be?", "Should I use humidity packs in my jars?", "How long should I cure cannabis?", "Can curing fix weed that smells like hay?", "What is burping a jar?", "What is water curing?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-harvest-cure-curing-burping", "kb-harvest-cure-drying", "kb-harvest-cure-long-term-storage", "kb-diseases-botrytis-bud-rot", "kb-harvest-cure-irradiated-cannabis" ], "sources_count": 6, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-guides-drying-step-by-step", "title": "Drying step by step: the bud's water activity, and dry trim vs wet trim", "category": "guides", "category_name": "Start here", "slug": "drying-step-by-step", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/guides/drying-step-by-step.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/guides/drying-step-by-step.md", "summary": "Dry slowly, in the dark, at 15–21 °C (60–70 °F) and 55–62 % RH with gentle air that moves around the buds but never blows on them, for 7–14 days. The bud is done when small stems snap and its water activity is about 0.60–0.65, ready for jars. Wet trim or dry trim is grower preference. A fast, warm dry gives a hay smell that never cures out.", "tags": [ "drying", "water-activity", "60-60", "stem-snap", "dry-trim", "wet-trim", "hay-smell", "beginner" ], "stage": [ "harvest", "cure" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "How long should cannabis dry before jarring?", "What temperature and humidity should a drying room be?", "Is dry trimming better than wet trimming?", "What is the stem snap test?", "Why does my dried weed smell like hay?", "Should I freeze dry my cannabis?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-harvest-cure-drying", "kb-harvest-cure-curing-burping", "kb-harvest-cure-trichome-ripeness", "kb-diseases-botrytis-bud-rot", "kb-environment-humidity-by-stage", "kb-harvest-cure-long-term-storage" ], "sources_count": 6, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-guides-dwc-first-grow-week-by-week", "title": "DWC first grow, week by week", "category": "guides", "category_name": "Start here", "slug": "dwc-first-grow-week-by-week", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/guides/dwc-first-grow-week-by-week.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/guides/dwc-first-grow-week-by-week.md", "summary": "In DWC the roots hang in an aerated nutrient solution, so two things decide success: dissolved oxygen above about 6 mg/L (air running 24/7) and solution at 18–22 °C (64–72 °F). Run pH 5.6–6.0 with drift inside 5.5–6.2 allowed, EC from about 0.6–0.8 mS/cm for seedlings to 1.0–1.6 in veg and 1.4–2.0 in flower, top off as plants drink and change the solution every 7–14 days. A beneficial-microbe reservoir is the house preference; a sterile one is valid only if you commit to it.", "tags": [ "dwc", "hydroponics", "reservoir", "dissolved-oxygen", "air-pump", "ph-drift", "week-by-week", "beginner" ], "stage": [ "seedling", "veg", "transition", "flower", "ripen", "harvest" ], "systems": [ "dwc" ], "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "Is DWC good for a first grow?", "What temperature should a DWC reservoir be?", "How often should I change my DWC water?", "Why does pH rise in my DWC bucket?", "Should my DWC reservoir be sterile or full of beneficial microbes?", "How much air does a DWC bucket need?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-systems-dwc", "kb-diseases-root-rot-pythium", "kb-ph-ec-ph-drift-hydro", "kb-diagnosis-root-browning-hydro", "kb-systems-rdwc", "kb-guides-electrical-and-water-safety" ], "sources_count": 8, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-guides-electrical-and-water-safety", "title": "Electrical and water safety for home grows", "category": "guides", "category_name": "Start here", "slug": "electrical-and-water-safety", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/guides/electrical-and-water-safety.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/guides/electrical-and-water-safety.md", "summary": "Run every grow device from an RCD/GFCI-protected outlet (30 mA or less), add up the watts and keep continuous load under 80 % of the circuit rating (about 1,440 W on a 15 A, 120 V circuit; about 2,900 W on a 16 A, 230 V circuit), give every cable a drip loop, keep plugs above the highest water level, never daisy-chain power strips, and fit a working smoke alarm near the grow. Wear gloves and eye protection when handling pH acids and concentrates.", "tags": [ "safety", "electrical", "gfci", "rcd", "fire", "load", "water", "co2", "chemicals", "ppe", "beginner" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "Do I need a GFCI or RCD for my grow tent?", "How many watts can I run on one circuit?", "Is it safe to use power strips in a grow room?", "What is a drip loop and why do I need one?", "Can a grow light start a fire?", "What safety gear do I need for pH down and nutrients?", "Is CO2 in a grow room dangerous?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-environment-co2-enrichment", "kb-systems-dwc", "kb-diseases-sanitation-and-prevention", "kb-guides-choosing-your-setup", "kb-guides-dwc-first-grow-week-by-week", "kb-guides-smell-control-basics" ], "sources_count": 8, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-guides-feeding-basics", "title": "Feeding basics: EC, the nitrogen taper, and why you don't flush", "category": "guides", "category_name": "Start here", "slug": "feeding-basics", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/guides/feeding-basics.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/guides/feeding-basics.md", "summary": "Feed by EC, not by the label: start at a quarter to half the label rate, about EC 0.4–0.8 mS/cm for seedlings, 1.0–1.8 in veg and 1.6–2.2 in flower in coco and hydro (lower in soil), and raise it only while leaf tips stay clean. Feed right through to harvest. Don't flush: it starves the plant while it packs on its final weight and resin. In late flower, taper only nitrogen and keep P, K, Ca, Mg, S and the micros fed.", "tags": [ "feeding", "nutrients", "ec", "nitrogen-taper", "flushing", "cal-mag", "bloom-booster", "runoff", "beginner" ], "stage": [ "seedling", "veg", "transition", "flower", "ripen" ], "systems": [ "soil", "coco", "dwc" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "How strong should I feed my cannabis plants?", "Should I flush before harvest?", "What is a nitrogen taper?", "When should I start feeding seedlings?", "Do I need Cal-Mag under LED lights?", "Do bloom boosters increase yield?", "When is a flush actually useful?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-nutrients-feed-by-stage", "kb-harvest-cure-flush-debate", "kb-nutrients-flushing", "kb-nutrients-cal-mag", "kb-nutrients-bloom-boosters", "kb-ph-ec-ec-ppm-scales" ], "sources_count": 9, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-guides-germinating-seeds-step-by-step", "title": "Germinating seeds step by step", "category": "guides", "category_name": "Start here", "slug": "germinating-seeds-step-by-step", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/guides/germinating-seeds-step-by-step.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/guides/germinating-seeds-step-by-step.md", "summary": "Cannabis seeds germinate in 1–5 days when kept at 22–27 °C (72–81 °F) with steady moisture and air. Soak for no more than 12–24 h, then either plant directly 0.5–1 cm (¼–½ in) deep in moist mix or wait in a damp paper towel until the root is 0.5–2 cm long and plant it root down. Expect 80–95 % from fresh seed; old seed is slower and lower.", "tags": [ "germination", "seeds", "paper-towel", "direct-sow", "seedling", "beginner", "checklist" ], "stage": [ "seedling" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "What is the best way to germinate cannabis seeds?", "How long does it take for cannabis seeds to germinate?", "How deep should I plant a cannabis seed?", "Should I soak seeds before planting?", "Do cannabis seeds need light to germinate?", "What germination rate should I expect?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-germination-germination-methods", "kb-germination-seedling-care", "kb-germination-damping-off", "kb-germination-seed-viability-storage", "kb-germination-transplanting", "kb-breeding-seed-germination-testing-qc" ], "sources_count": 6, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-guides-grow-journal-101", "title": "Grow journal 101: what to log and why", "category": "guides", "category_name": "Start here", "slug": "grow-journal-101", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/guides/grow-journal-101.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/guides/grow-journal-101.md", "summary": "A grow journal is a dated record of what you did and what the plant did: daily climate and watering, weekly photos, pH, EC and height, and every event (germination, transplant, topping, flip, first pistils, problems, harvest weights). Log both days since flip and days of flower. On GenetixBay, a journal tied to a GB-ID links your harvest back to the seed pack, and herm reports and results feed the open record other growers rely on.", "tags": [ "grow-journal", "logging", "records", "gb-id", "days-since-flip", "herm-report", "bay-trials", "beginner" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "What should I write in a grow journal?", "Why should I keep a grow journal?", "Why log both days since flip and days of flower?", "How often should I take grow photos?", "What is a GB-ID in a grow journal?", "Should I report a hermaphrodite in my journal?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-breeding-record-keeping-naming-ethics", "kb-breeding-documenting-lineage-evidence", "kb-environment-flip-to-flower-transition", "kb-diagnosis-how-to-diagnose-any-problem", "kb-diagnosis-hermaphrodites" ], "sources_count": 5, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-guides-legal-check-before-you-grow", "title": "Legal check before you grow", "category": "guides", "category_name": "Start here", "slug": "legal-check-before-you-grow", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/guides/legal-check-before-you-grow.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/guides/legal-check-before-you-grow.md", "summary": "Before buying anything, confirm from official sources that home cultivation is legal where you live, then check the plant limit and how it is counted, possession limits for the harvest, where plants may be kept (indoors, out of sight, locked), tenancy and building rules, rules around minors, the ban on selling, and the rules for buying and importing seed. Laws differ by country, state, province and city and change often. This guide is a dated checklist and pointer list, not legal advice.", "tags": [ "legal", "home-grow", "plant-count-limit", "possession-limit", "landlord", "seeds", "import", "checklist", "beginner" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "How do I check if I can legally grow cannabis at home?", "How many cannabis plants can I grow at home in Canada?", "Is it legal to grow cannabis at home in the United States?", "Can my landlord stop me growing cannabis?", "Can I sell or give away cannabis I grow at home?", "Is it legal to buy cannabis seeds online?", "What happens if home growing is not legal where I live?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-guides-first-grow-start-to-finish", "kb-guides-reading-a-seed-listing", "kb-guides-smell-control-basics", "kb-guides-electrical-and-water-safety", "kb-basics-first-grow-guide" ], "sources_count": 7, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-guides-lights-for-beginners", "title": "Lights for beginners: how much light, PPFD and DLI made simple", "category": "guides", "category_name": "Start here", "slug": "lights-for-beginners", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/guides/lights-for-beginners.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/guides/lights-for-beginners.md", "summary": "PPFD is how much usable light lands on the canopy each second (µmol/m²/s); DLI is the day's total (mol/m²/day = PPFD x hours x 0.0036). Aim for about 150–300 µmol/m²/s for seedlings (DLI 10–20), 300–600 in veg (DLI 20–40) and 600–900 in flower at 12/12 (DLI 26–39). Set height and dimming by measuring PPFD at the canopy and watching the top leaves, not by a fixed distance.", "tags": [ "light", "led", "ppfd", "dli", "hanging-height", "dimming", "light-meter", "beginner" ], "stage": [ "seedling", "veg", "flower" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "What is the difference between PPFD and DLI?", "How much light does a cannabis seedling need?", "How much light does cannabis need in flower?", "How far should my LED be from my plants?", "Can I use a phone app to measure PPFD?", "Should I run my lights 24 hours a day in veg?", "Why do my top leaves look bleached under my LED?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-environment-ppfd-dli-by-stage", "kb-environment-light-spectrum", "kb-environment-heat-light-stress", "kb-environment-photoperiod-light-leaks", "kb-guides-choosing-your-setup", "kb-guides-first-grow-start-to-finish" ], "sources_count": 7, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-guides-pest-prevention-for-beginners", "title": "Pest prevention for beginners: keep them out, find them early", "category": "guides", "category_name": "Start here", "slug": "pest-prevention-for-beginners", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/guides/pest-prevention-for-beginners.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/guides/pest-prevention-for-beginners.md", "summary": "Most indoor pest problems arrive on clones, plants, soil, pets or clothes, and are caught too late. Prevent them in this order: quarantine anything new for 10–14 days, start with clean media and a clean room, hang sticky traps and scout under leaves with a loupe every week, release predatory mites before you have a problem, and act at the first find rather than at the first damage. Don't spray buds in flower. Clones can also carry hop latent viroid, so buy seed or test cuts.", "tags": [ "pests", "ipm", "prevention", "quarantine", "sticky-traps", "scouting", "predatory-mites", "clones", "hlvd", "beginner" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "How do I stop pests getting into my grow tent?", "How do I check my plants for pests?", "Should I release predatory mites before I see pests?", "Can I spray pesticide on my buds in flower?", "Are clones a pest risk?", "How many pests is too many?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-pests-spider-mites", "kb-pests-thrips", "kb-pests-fungus-gnats", "kb-pests-broad-russet-mites", "kb-pests-root-aphids", "kb-pests-aphids" ], "sources_count": 10, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-guides-ph-made-simple", "title": "pH made simple", "category": "guides", "category_name": "Start here", "slug": "ph-made-simple", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/guides/ph-made-simple.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/guides/ph-made-simple.md", "summary": "Keep the water you feed at pH 6.2–6.8 for soil, 5.8–6.2 for coco and 5.6–6.0 for hydro; the accepted wider ranges are about 6.0–7.0 for soil and 5.5–6.5 for soilless, and drift within them is normal. Calibrate your pH pen with pH 7 and pH 4 buffers at least weekly, add nutrients before you adjust, change pH in small drops, and check runoff weekly. Wear gloves and eye protection with acids.", "tags": [ "ph", "ph-meter", "calibration", "ph-up", "ph-down", "alkalinity", "runoff", "beginner", "safety" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "soil", "coco", "dwc", "any" ], "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "What pH should I water cannabis at?", "How do I adjust pH for my plants?", "How often should I calibrate my pH meter?", "Why does my pH keep rising?", "Is pH or alkalinity more important in tap water?", "What happens if my pH is wrong?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-ph-ec-ph-nutrient-availability", "kb-ph-ec-meter-calibration", "kb-ph-ec-water-quality", "kb-ph-ec-ph-drift-hydro", "kb-ph-ec-runoff-testing", "kb-ph-ec-buffering-coco" ], "sources_count": 7, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-guides-photoperiod-grow-calendar", "title": "Photoperiod grow calendar: veg, flip, the 10–14 day transition, flower", "category": "guides", "category_name": "Start here", "slug": "photoperiod-grow-calendar", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/guides/photoperiod-grow-calendar.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/guides/photoperiod-grow-calendar.md", "summary": "Plan a photoperiod grow in five blocks: 2 weeks of seedling, 3–6 weeks of veg at 18/6 (24/0 also works), the flip to 12/12 (13/11 also works), a 10–14 day transition before flowering really starts, then the breeder's flowering time counted from that point. So a breeder's '8 weeks' usually means harvest about 9.5–10 weeks after the flip. Log both days since flip and days of flower.", "tags": [ "photoperiod", "calendar", "flip", "transition", "flowering-time", "veg", "12-12", "harvest-window", "timeline" ], "stage": [ "seedling", "veg", "transition", "flower", "ripen", "harvest" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "Is the day I flip to 12/12 day 1 of flower?", "Why does my plant take longer than the breeder's flowering time?", "How do I calculate my harvest date for a photoperiod plant?", "How long should I veg a photoperiod plant?", "Can I use 13/11 or 24/0 instead of 12/12 and 18/6?", "What happens in the first two weeks after the flip?", "What should I track in my grow journal for flowering time?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-environment-flip-to-flower-transition", "kb-environment-photoperiod-light-leaks", "kb-basics-life-cycle", "kb-diagnosis-stretching", "kb-harvest-cure-trichome-ripeness", "kb-training-scrog" ], "sources_count": 7, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-guides-reading-a-seed-listing", "title": "Reading a seed listing and buying seeds wisely", "category": "guides", "category_name": "Start here", "slug": "reading-a-seed-listing", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/guides/reading-a-seed-listing.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/guides/reading-a-seed-listing.md", "summary": "Read a seed listing for what can be checked: seed type (feminised, regular or autoflower), parents and generation (F1, IBL, S1), flowering time and how it is counted, real grow journals, herm reports and lineage evidence. Distrust flower potency claims above about 35 % total cannabinoids, 'indica for sleep, sativa for energy' promises and famous names with no records. Buy small, from sellers with documented lines, and check that buying and importing seed is legal where you live.", "tags": [ "seeds", "buying", "seed-listing", "buyer-beware", "potency", "feminised", "autoflower", "regular", "lineage", "beginner" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "How do I choose seeds for my first grow?", "Can seeds really produce 35–40 % THC flower?", "Do indica and sativa labels tell me the effect?", "What does flowering time on a seed listing mean?", "Should I buy feminised, regular or autoflower seeds?", "How do I spot an unreliable seed listing?", "Is it legal to buy cannabis seeds online?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-basics-buyer-beware-label-claims", "kb-basics-seed-types-regular-feminised-auto-clone", "kb-genetics-history-indica-sativa-ruderalis", "kb-genetics-history-same-cut-a-thousand-names", "kb-breeding-breeders-vs-pollen-chuckers", "kb-breeding-documenting-lineage-evidence" ], "sources_count": 9, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-guides-smell-control-basics", "title": "Smell control and odour basics: negative pressure and carbon filters", "category": "guides", "category_name": "Start here", "slug": "smell-control-basics", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/guides/smell-control-basics.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/guides/smell-control-basics.md", "summary": "Control grow smell by keeping the tent under negative pressure (the exhaust pulls out more air than comes in, so the walls suck in slightly) and sending every bit of exhaust through an activated-carbon filter rated at or above the fan's airflow. Size the fan for about one tent air exchange per minute plus 25–50 % for filter and duct losses. Replace the carbon every 12–18 months or when smell gets through, keep RH in range, and never use an ozone generator in an occupied home.", "tags": [ "smell", "odour", "carbon-filter", "exhaust-fan", "negative-pressure", "cfm", "drying", "beginner", "ozone" ], "stage": [ "veg", "flower", "ripen", "harvest", "cure" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "How do I stop my grow tent from smelling?", "What size carbon filter and fan do I need?", "What is negative pressure in a grow tent?", "How long does a carbon filter last?", "Are ozone generators safe for smell control?", "Why does my house smell when I harvest and dry?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-environment-airflow", "kb-environment-humidity-by-stage", "kb-harvest-cure-drying", "kb-harvest-cure-curing-burping", "kb-harvest-cure-long-term-storage" ], "sources_count": 5, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-guides-soil-first-grow-week-by-week", "title": "Soil first grow, week by week", "category": "guides", "category_name": "Start here", "slug": "soil-first-grow-week-by-week", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/guides/soil-first-grow-week-by-week.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/guides/soil-first-grow-week-by-week.md", "summary": "A soil first grow is the most forgiving: a quality bagged potting mix with 20–35 % perlite in an 11–19 L (3–5 gal) pot, water at pH 6.2–6.8 when the pot feels light, plain water for the first 2–4 weeks while the mix's starter charge lasts, then a dilute feed at EC 0.8–1.6 mS/cm rising through flower. A photoperiod plant runs about 17–20 weeks seed to harvest: 3 weeks seedling, 3–5 weeks veg, a 10–14 day transition and 7–10 weeks of flower.", "tags": [ "soil", "potting-mix", "week-by-week", "watering", "feeding", "beginner", "photoperiod", "schedule" ], "stage": [ "seedling", "veg", "transition", "flower", "ripen", "harvest" ], "systems": [ "soil" ], "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "What soil should I use for a first cannabis grow?", "When should I start feeding plants in soil?", "How often do I water cannabis in soil?", "What pH should water be for soil?", "Should I flush my soil plants before harvest?", "How long does a soil grow take week by week?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-systems-soil", "kb-guides-watering-how-much-how-often", "kb-guides-feeding-basics", "kb-guides-photoperiod-grow-calendar", "kb-ph-ec-runoff-testing", "kb-diagnosis-drooping-overwatering-vs-underwatering" ], "sources_count": 8, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-guides-daily-five-minute-check", "title": "Spotting problems early: a daily five-minute check", "category": "guides", "category_name": "Start here", "slug": "daily-five-minute-check", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/guides/daily-five-minute-check.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/guides/daily-five-minute-check.md", "summary": "Spend five minutes a day, at the same time, on one fixed routine: minute 1 the climate log, minute 2 the root zone (pot weight, reservoir or runoff), minute 3 the whole plant from a step back, minute 4 close-up under leaves with a loupe, minute 5 write it down. Most problems caught on day one are cheap to fix. When something looks wrong, check root zone and pH before blaming a nutrient, and change one thing at a time.", "tags": [ "daily-check", "scouting", "diagnosis", "checklist", "beginner", "pests", "climate", "watering", "ph" ], "stage": [ "seedling", "veg", "transition", "flower", "ripen" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "How often should I check my cannabis plants?", "What should I look at every day in my grow?", "My plant looks sick: what do I check first?", "How do I tell a real problem from normal leaf yellowing?", "Why should I change only one thing at a time?", "When is the best time to check plants each day?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-diagnosis-how-to-diagnose-any-problem", "kb-diagnosis-drooping-overwatering-vs-underwatering", "kb-diagnosis-yellowing-lower-leaves", "kb-diagnosis-yellow-new-growth", "kb-ph-ec-runoff-testing", "kb-environment-heat-light-stress" ], "sources_count": 7, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-guides-telling-sex-and-spotting-herms", "title": "Telling sex and spotting herms: males, females and hermaphrodites", "category": "guides", "category_name": "Start here", "slug": "telling-sex-and-spotting-herms", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/guides/telling-sex-and-spotting-herms.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/guides/telling-sex-and-spotting-herms.md", "summary": "Sex a cannabis plant by its first solitary flowers at the nodes, usually visible about 4–6 weeks from seed under long days: a female shows a teardrop bract with two white stigmas, a male a small round ball on a stalk with no hairs. A hermaphrodite grows both, or sprouts banana-shaped anthers in the buds. GenetixBay's position: herms are mainly breeder error that stress reveals, late-flower 'bananas' are not normal, and herm plants are culled, never bred from. Good males are valued.", "tags": [ "sex", "male", "female", "hermaphrodite", "herm", "nanners", "pre-flowers", "regular-seed", "stud-book", "beginner" ], "stage": [ "veg", "transition", "flower", "ripen" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "How do I tell if my cannabis plant is male or female?", "When can I see the sex of my plant?", "What does a hermaphrodite cannabis plant look like?", "Are bananas in late flower normal?", "Do herms come from stress or genetics?", "What should I do with a male or herm plant?", "Are male cannabis plants useless?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-basics-sex-male-female-hermaphrodite", "kb-diagnosis-hermaphrodites", "kb-basics-seed-types-regular-feminised-auto-clone", "kb-breeding-breeders-vs-pollen-chuckers", "kb-breeding-s1-selfing", "kb-breeding-feminised-seed-sex-reversal" ], "sources_count": 7, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-guides-training-basics", "title": "Training basics: LST, topping and tuck-don't-pluck", "category": "guides", "category_name": "Start here", "slug": "training-basics", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/guides/training-basics.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/guides/training-basics.md", "summary": "Training spreads a plant into a flat, even canopy so more bud sites sit in strong light. For a first grow, start low-stress training (bending and tying) in early veg, top photoperiods once at 4–6 nodes and allow 5–10 days of recovery, and tuck leaves out of the way rather than plucking them: leaves are the solar farm that feeds the buds. Autoflowers get LST only, not topping. Stop hard bending by mid-stretch.", "tags": [ "training", "lst", "topping", "tucking", "defoliation", "supercropping", "canopy", "beginner", "autoflower" ], "stage": [ "veg", "transition" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "What is the easiest training method for beginners?", "When should I top my cannabis plant?", "Should I top an autoflower?", "Should I remove fan leaves?", "When should I stop training my plant?", "Is supercropping safe for beginners?", "Does training increase yield?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-training-lst", "kb-training-topping", "kb-training-defoliation-lollipopping", "kb-training-hst-supercropping", "kb-training-scrog", "kb-training-fim" ], "sources_count": 6, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-guides-watering-how-much-how-often", "title": "Watering: how much, how often, by medium and pot size", "category": "guides", "category_name": "Start here", "slug": "watering-how-much-how-often", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/guides/watering-how-much-how-often.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/guides/watering-how-much-how-often.md", "summary": "Water cannabis by pot weight, not by the calendar: lift the pot, and water when it feels about half as heavy as just after watering. In soil that is usually every 2–4 days, giving about 20–30 % of the pot's volume to light runoff; in coco it is daily or more, to 10–20 % runoff. Seedlings get a small ring of 50–250 mL. Overwatering, not thirst, is the most common first-grow killer.", "tags": [ "watering", "pot-lift", "runoff", "dryback", "overwatering", "pot-size", "soil", "coco", "beginner" ], "stage": [ "seedling", "veg", "flower" ], "systems": [ "soil", "coco", "living_soil" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "How often should I water my cannabis plants?", "How much water does a cannabis plant need per watering?", "How do I know if I'm overwatering?", "Should I water to runoff?", "Does pot size affect how often I water?", "What is dryback and why does it matter?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-diagnosis-drooping-overwatering-vs-underwatering", "kb-systems-soil", "kb-systems-coco", "kb-ph-ec-runoff-testing", "kb-pests-fungus-gnats", "kb-systems-bottom-watering-wick" ], "sources_count": 7, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-guides-when-to-harvest", "title": "When to harvest: talk to her, and read the trichome mix", "category": "guides", "category_name": "Start here", "slug": "when-to-harvest", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/guides/when-to-harvest.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/guides/when-to-harvest.md", "summary": "Harvest when a 60x loupe shows the trichome heads on the buds as a mix of a few clear, mostly cloudy and some amber. That mix is a matter of preference, not a hard rule. Count from the flip and add the 10–14 day transition before you trust a breeder's week count, keep feeding to the end (no flush), and skip the 24–72 h of darkness: both are myths.", "tags": [ "harvest", "trichomes", "ripeness", "loupe", "harvest-window", "darkness-before-harvest", "flushing", "beginner" ], "stage": [ "ripen", "harvest" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "How do I know when my cannabis is ready to harvest?", "Should I look at trichomes on the leaves or the buds?", "Do amber trichomes make the effect more sleepy?", "Should I put my plants in darkness for 48 hours before harvest?", "Why is my plant taking longer than the breeder's flowering time?", "Should I flush before I harvest?", "Can I harvest the top and bottom of the plant at different times?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-harvest-cure-trichome-ripeness", "kb-environment-flip-to-flower-transition", "kb-harvest-cure-flush-debate", "kb-harvest-cure-drying", "kb-diseases-botrytis-bud-rot", "kb-basics-life-cycle" ], "sources_count": 7, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-guides-first-grow-start-to-finish", "title": "Your first grow, start to finish: the master guide", "category": "guides", "category_name": "Start here", "slug": "first-grow-start-to-finish", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/guides/first-grow-start-to-finish.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/guides/first-grow-start-to-finish.md", "summary": "A first indoor grow takes about 3–5 months from seed to jar: 1 week to set up and test the room, 1–2 weeks of germination and seedling, 3–6 weeks of veg (photoperiods), a 10–14 day transition after the flip, 7–10 weeks of flower, 7–14 days of drying and at least 2–4 weeks of curing. Use one to four feminised plants, a tent, one good LED, a fan and carbon filter, 11–19 L pots, a pH pen and an EC meter, and keep a journal.", "tags": [ "first-grow", "beginner", "timeline", "checklist", "setup", "harvest", "drying", "curing", "journal" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "soil", "coco", "dwc" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "How long does a first cannabis grow take from seed to harvest?", "What is the step-by-step order of a first grow?", "How many plants should I grow the first time?", "What is the biggest mistake on a first grow?", "Should I flush my plants before harvest on a first grow?", "How do I know when my first grow is ready to harvest?", "What equipment is essential for a first indoor grow?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-basics-first-grow-guide", "kb-basics-life-cycle", "kb-environment-flip-to-flower-transition", "kb-harvest-cure-flush-debate", "kb-harvest-cure-trichome-ripeness", "kb-harvest-cure-drying" ], "sources_count": 9, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-basics-buyer-beware-label-claims", "title": "Buyer beware: potency labels, strain names and other claims that don't hold up", "category": "basics", "category_name": "Basics", "slug": "buyer-beware-label-claims", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/basics/buyer-beware-label-claims.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/basics/buyer-beware-label-claims.md", "summary": "Flower labelled above about 35% total cannabinoids is not credible: cannabinoids are made only in trichome heads, and bud is mostly bract, stem and leaf, so numbers like that belong to concentrates or to inflated testing. Studies show potency results vary systematically between labs, and retail flower labels often overstate THC. Be equally sceptical of strain names that promise effects, terpene totals far above the ~2% average, and 'indica for the couch, sativa for energy'.", "tags": [ "potency", "thc", "labels", "lab-testing", "lab-shopping", "terpenes", "strain-names", "indica", "sativa", "consumer", "buyer-beware" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "Is 40% THC flower real?", "Is most dispensary weed really 30% THC?", "What THC does retail flower really test at?", "Have regulators caught inflated THC labels?", "What is the highest THC cannabis flower can have?", "Are cannabis THC labels accurate?", "What is lab shopping?", "Why does the same strain test differently at different labs?", "Is a high terpene percentage on the label believable?", "Do indica strains make you sleepy and sativas energetic?", "Does a strain name guarantee the effect?", "Can seeds really hit 42% THC?", "How is total THC calculated?", "Does frosty weed mean high THC?", "Is purple weed stronger?", "Can you judge cannabis quality by looks?", "What is bag appeal?" ], "myths": [ "Most shelf weed is 30 %", "Flower can test 35 %, even 42 %, total cannabinoids", "Humidity packs keep your stash fresher", "Frost and purple mean potency" ], "related": [ "kb-diagnosis-purple-stems-leaves", "kb-environment-temperature-by-stage", "kb-genetics-history-why-strain-names-are-unreliable", "kb-genetics-history-indica-sativa-ruderalis", "kb-harvest-cure-trichome-ripeness", "kb-breeding-chemotype-inheritance" ], "sources_count": 17, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-basics-glossary", "title": "Cannabis growing and breeding glossary", "category": "basics", "category_name": "Basics", "slug": "glossary", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/basics/glossary.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/basics/glossary.md", "summary": "Plain-language definitions of the growing, botany and breeding terms used across GenetixBay, with notes where the popular meaning differs from the scientific one.", "tags": [ "glossary", "terminology", "definitions", "breeding-terms", "grow-terms" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "What does F1 mean in cannabis?", "What is a phenotype vs a genotype?", "What is an IBL?", "What does S1 mean?", "What is a clone-only?", "What is a chemotype or chemovar?", "What does BX mean?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-basics-cannabis-plant-biology", "kb-breeding-mendelian-genetics-for-growers", "kb-breeding-f1-f2-f3-explained", "kb-breeding-backcrossing-ibl-stabilisation", "kb-breeding-documenting-lineage-evidence" ], "sources_count": 5, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-basics-cannabis-plant-biology", "title": "Cannabis plant biology: the parts and what they do", "category": "basics", "category_name": "Basics", "slug": "cannabis-plant-biology", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/basics/cannabis-plant-biology.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/basics/cannabis-plant-biology.md", "summary": "Cannabis sativa is a fast-growing annual herb in the hemp family. Most plants are either male or female, it flowers in response to long nights (unless it carries autoflower genetics), and the cannabinoids and terpenes growers want are made in glandular trichomes concentrated on the female flower heads.", "tags": [ "botany", "anatomy", "trichomes", "cannabinoids", "dioecy", "roots", "leaves" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "What are the parts of a cannabis plant?", "Where are THC and terpenes made in the plant?", "What is a trichome?", "Is cannabis a male and female plant?", "What is the difference between a calyx, a bract and a pistil?", "How many chromosomes does cannabis have?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-basics-buyer-beware-label-claims", "kb-basics-life-cycle", "kb-basics-sex-male-female-hermaphrodite", "kb-basics-photoperiod-vs-autoflower", "kb-basics-glossary", "kb-breeding-chemotype-inheritance" ], "sources_count": 5, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-basics-sex-male-female-hermaphrodite", "title": "Male, female and hermaphrodite cannabis: how sex works", "category": "basics", "category_name": "Basics", "slug": "sex-male-female-hermaphrodite", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/basics/sex-male-female-hermaphrodite.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/basics/sex-male-female-hermaphrodite.md", "summary": "Cannabis is dioecious: females are XX and males XY, and the species has kept separate sexes stably for millennia. Hermaphrodite (intersex) plants are unwanted outliers, mostly the result of bad breeding such as repeated selfing, careless feminising and untested seed; stress reveals the weakness in susceptible plants. Cull herm-prone plants and never breed from them. Seed from a female's own male flowers is almost all female, which is how feminised seed works and why herm tendency passes straight on.", "tags": [ "sex", "male", "female", "hermaphrodite", "intersex", "XY", "pre-flowers", "nanners", "dioecious", "breeding-ethics" ], "stage": [ "veg", "transition", "flower" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "How do I tell a male from a female cannabis plant?", "What is a hermaphrodite cannabis plant?", "Are hermaphrodites natural in cannabis?", "What are bananas or nanners on my bud?", "Does stress cause hermaphrodites?", "Can I test seedling sex early?", "Are seeds from a hermie plant all female?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-basics-cannabis-plant-biology", "kb-diagnosis-hermaphrodites", "kb-breeding-feminised-seed-sex-reversal", "kb-breeding-s1-selfing", "kb-breeding-selection-pheno-hunting", "kb-breeding-pollination-seed-production" ], "sources_count": 6, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-basics-photoperiod-vs-autoflower", "title": "Photoperiod vs autoflower, and how autoflowering is inherited", "category": "basics", "category_name": "Basics", "slug": "photoperiod-vs-autoflower", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/basics/photoperiod-vs-autoflower.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/basics/photoperiod-vs-autoflower.md", "summary": "Photoperiod cannabis flowers when nights get long; autoflowering (day-neutral) cannabis flowers by age, even under 18-24 h light. In the populations studied so far, autoflowering behaves as a single recessive gene (Autoflower1, on chromosome 1): a photoperiod x auto F1 is all photoperiod, and about 1 in 4 of its F2 plants are autos.", "tags": [ "autoflower", "photoperiod", "day-neutral", "ruderalis", "Autoflower1", "inheritance", "recessive" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "What is the difference between autoflower and photoperiod?", "Is the autoflower gene dominant or recessive?", "If I cross an auto with a photoperiod, what do I get?", "Can I grow autos on 12/12?", "What light schedule for autoflowers?", "Why did my autoflower not flower?", "Are autos better than photoperiods?", "Do autos yield more per year?", "Are autoflowers less potent?", "Are autoflowers good for beginners?" ], "myths": [ "Autos are easy" ], "related": [ "kb-breeding-breeders-vs-pollen-chuckers", "kb-training-sog", "kb-training-scrog", "kb-germination-transplanting", "kb-training-lst", "kb-basics-life-cycle" ], "sources_count": 6, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-basics-seed-types-regular-feminised-auto-clone", "title": "Regular, feminised, autoflower or clone: choosing your starting material", "category": "basics", "category_name": "Basics", "slug": "seed-types-regular-feminised-auto-clone", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/basics/seed-types-regular-feminised-auto-clone.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/basics/seed-types-regular-feminised-auto-clone.md", "summary": "Regular seed gives about half males and is what breeders need; feminised seed gives nearly all females and suits growers who want flower; autoflowers flower by age; clones copy one known plant but can carry pests and viroids. Each choice changes what you can do next.", "tags": [ "regular-seed", "feminised-seed", "autoflower", "clones", "starting-material", "seed-pack" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "Should I buy regular or feminised seeds?", "Are feminised seeds more likely to hermie?", "Are clones better than seeds?", "What does a seed pack's GB-PKG code mean?", "Can I breed with feminised seeds?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-basics-sex-male-female-hermaphrodite", "kb-diagnosis-hermaphrodites", "kb-basics-first-grow-guide", "kb-basics-photoperiod-vs-autoflower", "kb-breeding-feminised-seed-sex-reversal", "kb-breeding-clone-only-preservation" ], "sources_count": 5, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-basics-life-cycle", "title": "The cannabis life cycle, stage by stage", "category": "basics", "category_name": "Basics", "slug": "life-cycle", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/basics/life-cycle.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/basics/life-cycle.md", "summary": "Cannabis goes from seed to seedling (1-3 weeks), vegetative growth (2-8+ weeks indoors, set by the grower for photoperiod plants), transition, flowering (about 7-12 weeks for most drug-type cultivars, longer for some tropical types) and ripening, then harvest, drying and curing. Photoperiod plants flower when nights are long enough; autoflowers flower by age.", "tags": [ "life-cycle", "germination", "seedling", "vegetative", "flowering", "harvest", "photoperiod" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "How long does it take to grow cannabis from seed?", "What are the stages of cannabis growth?", "When does cannabis start flowering?", "How long is the vegetative stage?", "What is the stretch in early flower?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-basics-cannabis-plant-biology", "kb-basics-photoperiod-vs-autoflower", "kb-basics-first-grow-guide", "kb-basics-sex-male-female-hermaphrodite", "kb-environment-photoperiod-light-leaks", "kb-germination-germination-methods" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-basics-first-grow-guide", "title": "Your first grow: a plan from seed to jar", "category": "basics", "category_name": "Basics", "slug": "first-grow-guide", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/basics/first-grow-guide.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/basics/first-grow-guide.md", "summary": "For a first indoor grow, use one to four plants of a reputable feminised autoflower or photoperiod line in a tent, a good LED, quality soil or coco, a pH and EC meter, and a journal. Keep the targets simple: steady temperature and humidity, light to about 400-600 µmol/m²/s in veg and 600-900 in flower, water by weight, and harvest by trichomes.", "tags": [ "first-grow", "beginner", "setup", "lighting", "watering", "feeding", "harvest", "journal" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "soil", "coco" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "What do I need for my first cannabis grow?", "Should a beginner grow autoflowers or photoperiods?", "How much light does cannabis need?", "How often should I water my plants?", "Soil or coco for a first grow?", "What temperature and humidity should my tent be?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-harvest-cure-flush-debate", "kb-basics-life-cycle", "kb-basics-photoperiod-vs-autoflower", "kb-basics-seed-types-regular-feminised-auto-clone", "kb-basics-sex-male-female-hermaphrodite", "kb-germination-germination-methods" ], "sources_count": 5, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-germination-damping-off", "title": "Damping-off: why seedlings collapse at the soil line", "category": "germination", "category_name": "Germination", "slug": "damping-off", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/germination/damping-off.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/germination/damping-off.md", "summary": "Damping-off is seedling death caused mainly by soil-borne pathogens such as Pythium, Rhizoctonia and Fusarium: the stem pinches, darkens and collapses at the soil line, or seeds rot before emerging. It is a prevention problem: clean containers and new mix, no overwatering, warm medium, good light and airflow. Once a seedling has collapsed it cannot be saved.", "tags": [ "damping-off", "pythium", "rhizoctonia", "fusarium", "seedlings", "sanitation" ], "stage": [ "seedling" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "Why did my seedling fall over at the base?", "What is damping off and how do I prevent it?", "Can a damped-off seedling be saved?", "Does cinnamon stop damping off?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-germination-seedling-care", "kb-germination-germination-methods", "kb-environment-humidity-by-stage", "kb-environment-airflow", "kb-diseases-sanitation-and-prevention", "kb-diseases-root-rot-pythium" ], "sources_count": 5, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-germination-germination-methods", "title": "Germination methods compared: soak, paper towel, plugs, direct sow", "category": "germination", "category_name": "Germination", "slug": "germination-methods", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/germination/germination-methods.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/germination/germination-methods.md", "summary": "Cannabis seed germinates best around 20–30 °C (68–86 °F) with steady moisture and air. Every common method works if those are met: direct sowing is least handling, paper towels let you see radicles, plugs and cubes suit hydro. Lab protocols with 1 % hydrogen peroxide, short soaks or tip scarification sped up germination, mainly for old or hard seeds; they are optional for fresh seed.", "tags": [ "germination", "paper-towel", "soaking", "hydrogen-peroxide", "scarification", "rockwool", "plugs" ], "stage": [ "seedling" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "What is the best way to germinate cannabis seeds?", "Should I soak seeds before planting?", "Does hydrogen peroxide help germination?", "What temperature for germinating cannabis seeds?", "How deep do I plant a cannabis seed?", "How long should germination take?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-germination-seed-viability-storage", "kb-germination-seedling-care", "kb-germination-damping-off", "kb-germination-transplanting" ], "sources_count": 5, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-germination-seed-viability-storage", "title": "Seed viability and storage: keeping cannabis seeds alive", "category": "germination", "category_name": "Germination", "slug": "seed-viability-storage", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/germination/seed-viability-storage.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/germination/seed-viability-storage.md", "summary": "Cannabis seeds stay viable longest when dry and cold: research on hemp and drug-type seeds recommends about 5 °C (41 °F) storage to keep germination ability for around six years, with low seed moisture and an airtight container. Room temperature and humid storage cost viability within months to a few years. Test old seeds with a small germination test before planting a whole batch.", "tags": [ "seeds", "storage", "viability", "germination-test", "refrigerator", "freezer", "moisture" ], "stage": [ "seedling" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "How long do cannabis seeds last?", "Should I store seeds in the fridge or freezer?", "How do I know if my seeds are still viable?", "Do dark seeds germinate better than pale ones?", "Can I revive old cannabis seeds?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-germination-germination-methods", "kb-germination-seedling-care", "kb-germination-damping-off", "kb-breeding-seed-germination-testing-qc" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-germination-seedling-care", "title": "Seedling care: the first three weeks", "category": "germination", "category_name": "Germination", "slug": "seedling-care", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/germination/seedling-care.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/germination/seedling-care.md", "summary": "Seedlings need moderate light (about 150–300 µmol/m²/s, 18 h, a DLI of 10–19 mol/m²/day), warm and fairly humid air (23–27 °C / 73–81 °F, 65–75 % RH), and small, careful waterings. Most seedling losses come from overwatering, too little light (stretching) or damping-off, not from lack of nutrients. Start feeding lightly once the first two or three sets of true leaves have formed.", "tags": [ "seedlings", "stretching", "watering", "light", "humidity", "first-feed" ], "stage": [ "seedling" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "Why is my seedling stretching and falling over?", "How much should I water seedlings?", "How far should the light be from seedlings?", "When should I start feeding seedlings?", "What humidity for cannabis seedlings?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-germination-germination-methods", "kb-germination-damping-off", "kb-germination-transplanting", "kb-environment-ppfd-dli-by-stage", "kb-environment-vpd-explained", "kb-diagnosis-stretching" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-germination-transplanting", "title": "Transplanting: when, into what, and avoiding transplant shock", "category": "germination", "category_name": "Germination", "slug": "transplanting", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/germination/transplanting.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/germination/transplanting.md", "summary": "Transplant when roots fill the current container but before they circle: typically seedling plug to 1–3 L at 2–3 weeks, then to the final pot 2–4 weeks before flowering. Move the root ball intact into pre-moistened medium at the same pH and similar EC, water in lightly, and keep light and climate gentle for a few days. Autoflowers do best sown straight into their final pot.", "tags": [ "transplanting", "potting-up", "root-bound", "transplant-shock", "container-size" ], "stage": [ "seedling", "veg" ], "systems": [ "soil", "coco", "rockwool", "living_soil" ], "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "Does pot size limit yield?", "When should I transplant my cannabis seedling?", "What size pots should I transplant into?", "How do I avoid transplant shock?", "Can I transplant during flower?", "Should I transplant autoflowers?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-training-lst", "kb-germination-seedling-care", "kb-systems-soil", "kb-systems-coco", "kb-systems-rockwool", "kb-germination-damping-off" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-environment-airflow", "title": "Airflow: air exchange, canopy air speed and fan placement", "category": "environment", "category_name": "Environment", "slug": "airflow", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/environment/airflow.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/environment/airflow.md", "summary": "Aim for gentle, constant movement across and under the canopy (roughly 0.3–1.0 m/s at leaf level) plus enough exhaust to remove heat and humidity, typically one full tent air exchange every 1–3 minutes for a lit tent. Moving air thins the leaf boundary layer, which raised canopy photosynthesis in non-cannabis research, and dries out the microclimates where mould starts.", "tags": [ "airflow", "fans", "exhaust", "ventilation", "boundary-layer", "carbon-filter" ], "stage": [ "seedling", "veg", "flower" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "How many fans do I need in a grow tent?", "How fast should air move over cannabis leaves?", "What size exhaust fan for my tent?", "Can too much wind hurt plants?", "Should fans run at night?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-environment-vpd-explained", "kb-environment-humidity-by-stage", "kb-environment-co2-enrichment", "kb-environment-heat-light-stress" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-environment-co2-enrichment", "title": "CO₂ enrichment: when it pays, how much, and how to stay safe", "category": "environment", "category_name": "Environment", "slug": "co2-enrichment", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/environment/co2-enrichment.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/environment/co2-enrichment.md", "summary": "Raising CO₂ from ambient (~420 ppm) to 800–1,200 ppm during lights-on raises cannabis photosynthesis substantially, but only pays when light is already high (roughly 900+ µmol/m²/s) and the room is sealed enough to hold it. Keep occupied rooms below the 5,000 ppm 8-hour workplace limit and never enter a room above 30,000 ppm.", "tags": [ "co2", "enrichment", "photosynthesis", "safety", "sealed-room" ], "stage": [ "veg", "flower" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "Is CO2 worth it for a small grow tent?", "What ppm CO2 should I run in flower?", "Do I need CO2 above 1000 PPFD?", "Is CO2 dangerous to people?", "Should CO2 run at night?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-environment-ppfd-dli-by-stage", "kb-environment-temperature-by-stage", "kb-environment-airflow", "kb-environment-heat-light-stress" ], "sources_count": 5, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-environment-heat-light-stress", "title": "Heat and light stress: taco leaves, bleaching and foxtails", "category": "environment", "category_name": "Environment", "slug": "heat-light-stress", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/environment/heat-light-stress.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/environment/heat-light-stress.md", "summary": "Heat and light stress show at the top of the plant, closest to the light: leaves curl up or taco, bracts bleach white or yellow, buds may foxtail. Measure leaf temperature and canopy PPFD before blaming nutrients. Typical fixes: dim or raise the light 10–20 %, bring leaf temperature under about 30 °C (86 °F), restore airflow and root-zone water uptake.", "tags": [ "heat-stress", "light-stress", "bleaching", "foxtailing", "tacoing", "light-burn" ], "stage": [ "veg", "flower", "ripen" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "Why are my top leaves curling up like tacos?", "Why are my top buds turning white?", "Is it light burn or nitrogen toxicity?", "What causes foxtailing?", "How far should my LED be from the canopy?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-environment-ppfd-dli-by-stage", "kb-environment-temperature-by-stage", "kb-environment-vpd-explained", "kb-environment-airflow", "kb-environment-co2-enrichment", "kb-diagnosis-taco-canoeing-leaves" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-environment-humidity-by-stage", "title": "Humidity by stage: RH targets from clone to cure", "category": "environment", "category_name": "Environment", "slug": "humidity-by-stage", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/environment/humidity-by-stage.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/environment/humidity-by-stage.md", "summary": "Run about 65–80 % RH for clones and seedlings, 55–70 % in veg, 50–60 % early flower and 40–50 % in late flower, adjusted to hit a leaf VPD band at your temperature. High RH in flower raises bud-rot and mildew risk and, in a 2025 study, delayed flowering and lowered cannabinoids. Dry and cure near 60 % RH.", "tags": [ "humidity", "rh", "botrytis", "powdery-mildew", "dehumidifier", "dew-point" ], "stage": [ "seedling", "veg", "transition", "flower", "ripen", "harvest", "cure" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "What humidity should I have in flower?", "Is 70 % humidity too high in late flower?", "Why does humidity spike when the lights go off?", "How big a dehumidifier do I need?", "Can low humidity increase trichomes?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-environment-vpd-explained", "kb-environment-temperature-by-stage", "kb-environment-airflow", "kb-harvest-cure-drying", "kb-germination-seedling-care", "kb-diseases-botrytis-bud-rot" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-environment-light-spectrum", "title": "Light spectrum: blue, red, far-red and UV, what's real", "category": "environment", "category_name": "Environment", "slug": "light-spectrum", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/environment/light-spectrum.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/environment/light-spectrum.md", "summary": "Photon quantity (PPFD/DLI) and fixture efficacy matter far more than spectrum. Less blue slightly increased cannabis yield (about 12 % from 4 % to 20 % blue). Far-red stretches plants; its yield effect is contested and seems to trade off against cannabinoid concentration. UV has repeatedly failed to raise cannabinoids in controlled trials and can cut yield at high doses.", "tags": [ "spectrum", "far-red", "uv", "blue-light", "led", "hps" ], "stage": [ "veg", "flower" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "contested", "evidence_name": "Contested", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "Does UV light increase THC?", "Is far-red worth adding to my LED?", "What spectrum is best for flowering cannabis?", "Do I need a different spectrum for veg and flower?", "Is a full-spectrum white LED as good as HPS?", "Do LEDs need more Cal-Mag?" ], "myths": [ "UV-B lamps raise THC" ], "related": [ "kb-environment-ppfd-dli-by-stage", "kb-environment-photoperiod-light-leaks", "kb-environment-heat-light-stress", "kb-nutrients-cal-mag", "kb-environment-vpd-explained" ], "sources_count": 8, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-environment-photoperiod-light-leaks", "title": "Photoperiod and light leaks: 18/6, 12/12 and the dark period", "category": "environment", "category_name": "Environment", "slug": "photoperiod-light-leaks", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/environment/photoperiod-light-leaks.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/environment/photoperiod-light-leaks.md", "summary": "Photoperiod cannabis stays vegetative under long days (18/6 up to 24/0; no sleep period is needed in veg) and flowers when the uninterrupted night is long enough: 12/12 or 13/11, and some cultivars flower at 14–15 h, usually as ~12 h at high intensity plus sunrise and sunset ramps. Light during the dark period, even very dim, can delay or weaken flowering in sensitive cultivars; leaks can also expose herm-prone genetics, triggering male flowers on susceptible plants. Some cultivars yield more at 13–14 h days, at a possible cost in THC concentration.", "tags": [ "photoperiod", "12-12", "light-leak", "night-interruption", "flowering", "autoflower", "hermaphrodite" ], "stage": [ "veg", "transition", "flower" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "Why is my plant not flowering on 12/12?", "How dark does the grow room need to be at night?", "Do light leaks cause hermaphrodites?", "Can I flower on 13/11 or 14/10?", "Can I run 24/0 in veg?", "Do sunrise and sunset ramps count as daylight?", "What photoperiod for autoflowers?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-environment-ppfd-dli-by-stage", "kb-environment-light-spectrum", "kb-environment-heat-light-stress", "kb-diagnosis-hermaphrodites", "kb-environment-flip-to-flower-transition" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-environment-ppfd-dli-by-stage", "title": "PPFD and DLI by stage, with the evidence", "category": "environment", "category_name": "Environment", "slug": "ppfd-dli-by-stage", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/environment/ppfd-dli-by-stage.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/environment/ppfd-dli-by-stage.md", "summary": "In the best indoor trial, cannabis flower yield rose linearly with canopy PPFD from 120 to 1,800 µmol/m²/s at ambient CO₂ (116 to 519 g/m²) with no change in cannabinoid potency. Practical targets: 100–300 µmol/m²/s for seedlings and clones, 300–700 (up to ~900) in veg, and 800–1,200 in flower, or more with CO₂, as long as the plant shows no stress and the electricity is worth it.", "tags": [ "ppfd", "dli", "light-intensity", "led", "yield", "par" ], "stage": [ "seedling", "veg", "flower" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "What PPFD should I run in flower?", "What DLI does cannabis need?", "Does more light increase THC?", "Is 1500 PPFD too much without CO2?", "How do I convert PPFD to DLI?", "What PPFD for seedlings and clones?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-environment-co2-enrichment", "kb-environment-light-spectrum", "kb-environment-photoperiod-light-leaks", "kb-environment-heat-light-stress", "kb-germination-seedling-care" ], "sources_count": 7, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-environment-temperature-by-stage", "title": "Temperature by stage: day, night and root-zone targets", "category": "environment", "category_name": "Environment", "slug": "temperature-by-stage", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/environment/temperature-by-stage.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/environment/temperature-by-stage.md", "summary": "Run roughly 24–28 °C (75–82 °F) by day in veg, 22–26 °C (72–79 °F) in flower, cooling to 20–24 °C (68–75 °F) in late flower, with nights 3–6 °C (5–10 °F) cooler. Above about 30 °C (86 °F) photosynthesis in cannabis falls unless light and CO₂ are high. Keep the root zone and hydro reservoirs at 18–22 °C (64–72 °F).", "tags": [ "temperature", "day-night", "dif", "root-zone", "reservoir", "climate" ], "stage": [ "seedling", "veg", "transition", "flower", "ripen" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "What temperature should my grow room be in veg and flower?", "How much cooler should the night be?", "Is 30 °C too hot for cannabis?", "What reservoir temperature should I run?", "Does a cold night really bring out purple colour?", "Do cold nights increase terpenes?" ], "myths": [ "Cold nights boost terpenes and resin" ], "related": [ "kb-environment-vpd-explained", "kb-environment-humidity-by-stage", "kb-environment-co2-enrichment", "kb-environment-heat-light-stress", "kb-systems-dwc", "kb-diagnosis-stretching" ], "sources_count": 5, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-environment-flip-to-flower-transition", "title": "The flip isn't day 1 of flower: the 10–14 day transition and how to count it", "category": "environment", "category_name": "Environment", "slug": "flip-to-flower-transition", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/environment/flip-to-flower-transition.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/environment/flip-to-flower-transition.md", "summary": "Switching to 12/12 starts floral induction, not flowering. In controlled studies the first visible inflorescence (at least three pairs of pistils at the top of the main shoot) appeared roughly 8–14 days after short days began, around 13–14 days on average across many hemp cultivars, and up to three weeks in slow ones. Breeder flowering times often count from that point, so a stated 8 weeks usually means harvest about 9.5–10 weeks after the flip. Count both: days since flip and days of flower.", "tags": [ "flip", "12-12", "transition", "floral-induction", "pistils", "preflowers", "stretch", "critical-photoperiod", "flowering-time", "harvest-timing", "journal" ], "stage": [ "veg", "transition", "flower" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "Is the first day of 12/12 the first day of flower?", "How long after the flip do pistils show?", "Why does my strain take longer than the breeder says?", "When does flowering actually start after switching to 12/12?", "Are preflowers the start of flowering?", "How do I count weeks of flower?", "How long does the stretch last?", "How will I know my plant is really flowering?", "Does 13/11 delay flowering?" ], "myths": [ "Day 1 of 12/12 is day 1 of flower" ], "related": [ "kb-environment-photoperiod-light-leaks", "kb-basics-life-cycle", "kb-basics-first-grow-guide", "kb-harvest-cure-trichome-ripeness", "kb-diagnosis-stretching", "kb-basics-photoperiod-vs-autoflower" ], "sources_count": 10, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-environment-vpd-explained", "title": "VPD explained: vapour pressure deficit for cannabis growers", "category": "environment", "category_name": "Environment", "slug": "vpd-explained", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/environment/vpd-explained.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/environment/vpd-explained.md", "summary": "VPD is how hard the air pulls water out of the leaf, in kPa. Common targets are about 0.4–0.8 kPa for seedlings and clones, 0.8–1.2 kPa in veg and 1.0–1.5 kPa in flower, calculated from leaf temperature rather than air temperature. Most of these bands come from grower and greenhouse practice; cannabis-specific VPD trials are still scarce.", "tags": [ "vpd", "humidity", "temperature", "transpiration", "leaf-temperature", "climate" ], "stage": [ "seedling", "veg", "flower", "ripen" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "What is VPD and why does it matter for cannabis?", "What VPD should I run in veg and flower?", "How do I calculate VPD with leaf temperature?", "What humidity do I need at 26 °C to hit 1.2 kPa?", "Is leaf VPD or air VPD the right number?", "My VPD is perfect but plants still look stressed, why?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-environment-humidity-by-stage", "kb-environment-temperature-by-stage", "kb-environment-airflow", "kb-environment-heat-light-stress", "kb-germination-seedling-care", "kb-diagnosis-taco-canoeing-leaves" ], "sources_count": 5, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-nutrients-bloom-boosters", "title": "\"Bloom boosters\" for cannabis: what's real and what's marketing", "category": "nutrients", "category_name": "Nutrients", "slug": "bloom-boosters", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/nutrients/bloom-boosters.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/nutrients/bloom-boosters.md", "summary": "Most bloom boosters are concentrated phosphorus and potassium. Four independent controlled cannabis trials found no increase in flower yield or cannabinoids from raising phosphorus above roughly 25–60 mg/L, and one found no yield response to potassium anywhere from 60 to 340 mg/L. A complete, balanced flower feed is what matters; extra P and K mostly end up in the runoff and can induce magnesium, calcium, zinc and iron problems. Some boosters have been reported to contain undeclared plant growth regulators, which have no place in a consumable crop.", "tags": [ "bloom-booster", "pk-booster", "phosphorus", "potassium", "flowering", "additives", "plant-growth-regulators", "myths" ], "stage": [ "flower" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "Do bloom boosters work on cannabis?", "Should I use a PK booster in week 4 or 5 of flower?", "Does high phosphorus increase bud size?", "Are bloom boosters a waste of money?", "What is in a bloom booster?", "Are there growth regulators in some cannabis additives?" ], "myths": [ "High-phosphorus bloom boosters mean bigger buds" ], "related": [ "kb-nutrients-phosphorus", "kb-nutrients-potassium", "kb-nutrients-feed-by-stage", "kb-nutrients-nutrient-antagonism", "kb-nutrients-magnesium", "kb-nutrients-zinc" ], "sources_count": 7, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-nutrients-boron", "title": "Boron (B) in cannabis: distorted tips, dying roots and a narrow safe window", "category": "nutrients", "category_name": "Nutrients", "slug": "boron", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/nutrients/boron.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/nutrients/boron.md", "summary": "Boron cross-links cell-wall pectin and is needed wherever cells are dividing: shoot tips, root tips and flowers. Deficiency in cannabis causes stunted, distorted new growth, dead growing tips and wilting from root-tip death; toxicity scorches the margins of older leaves. Supply about 0.2–0.5 mg/L B; cannabis tolerated a tenfold dose for weeks but the gap between enough and too much is narrower than for most nutrients.", "tags": [ "boron", "micronutrient", "deficiency", "toxicity", "immobile-nutrient", "cell-wall", "roots" ], "stage": [ "veg", "flower" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "What does boron deficiency look like in cannabis?", "Why are my growing tips twisted and dying?", "How much boron in hydroponic solution?", "Can boron be toxic to cannabis?", "Why is my plant wilting even though the medium is wet?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-nutrients-calcium", "kb-nutrients-mobile-vs-immobile-nutrients", "kb-ph-ec-water-quality", "kb-diagnosis-yellow-new-growth", "kb-diagnosis-drooping-overwatering-vs-underwatering" ], "sources_count": 5, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-nutrients-feed-by-stage", "title": "Building a cannabis feed by stage: ppm targets per element and how to hit them", "category": "nutrients", "category_name": "Nutrients", "slug": "feed-by-stage", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/nutrients/feed-by-stage.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/nutrients/feed-by-stage.md", "summary": "A good mineral cannabis feed runs roughly N 150–200, P 30–60, K 175–250, Ca 150–200, Mg 40–70 and S 60–120 mg/L in veg and flower, plus Fe 1.5–3 and small amounts of Mn, Zn, B, Cu and Mo, at an EC of about 1.2–1.8 mS/cm in veg and 1.6–2.2 in flower. Cannabis research shows no benefit from pushing P or overall strength higher. This article gives the targets, the evidence behind each, and two worked RO-water recipes with a sources table.", "tags": [ "feed-chart", "recipe", "ppm", "ec", "veg", "flower", "seedling", "diy-nutrients", "hydro", "coco" ], "stage": [ "seedling", "veg", "transition", "flower", "ripen" ], "systems": [ "dwc", "rdwc", "nft", "ebb_flow", "drip", "coco", "rockwool", "aero" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "advanced", "qa": [ "How many ppm of each nutrient does cannabis need in veg and flower?", "What EC should I run for cannabis in veg and flower?", "How do I make my own cannabis nutrients from salts?", "What is a good N-P-K ratio for flowering cannabis?", "Do I need to change nutrients between veg and flower?", "What EC for seedlings and clones?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-nutrients-hydroponic-salts", "kb-nutrients-nitrogen", "kb-nutrients-phosphorus", "kb-nutrients-potassium", "kb-nutrients-calcium", "kb-nutrients-magnesium" ], "sources_count": 10, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-nutrients-cal-mag", "title": "Cal-Mag: what it is, when you need it and when you don't", "category": "nutrients", "category_name": "Nutrients", "slug": "cal-mag", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/nutrients/cal-mag.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/nutrients/cal-mag.md", "summary": "Cal-Mag is a calcium and magnesium supplement, usually calcium nitrate and magnesium nitrate, sometimes with iron. You need it when your water and base nutrient together supply too little Ca and Mg: RO or very soft water, new or unbuffered coco, or a base nutrient designed for hard water. How much a plant needs is driven mainly by its cultivar, the water source, the medium (coco's cation exchange), root-zone pH and transpiration. The claim that LED lights create a Cal-Mag need is a myth. You do not need it on hard tap water with a complete base feed, and overusing it adds nitrogen and pushes potassium and magnesium out of balance.", "tags": [ "cal-mag", "calcium", "magnesium", "ro-water", "coco", "led", "supplements" ], "stage": [ "veg", "flower" ], "systems": [ "coco", "dwc", "rdwc", "nft", "drip", "rockwool", "soil" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "Do I need Cal-Mag with RO water?", "How much Cal-Mag should I use in coco?", "Do LED lights need more Cal-Mag?", "Why does one strain need Cal-Mag and another doesn't in the same room?", "I switched from HPS to LED and got rust spots: is it Cal-Mag?", "Can I use too much Cal-Mag?", "Should I add Cal-Mag if I have hard tap water?", "Is Cal-Mag the same as Epsom salt?" ], "myths": [ "LED lights make plants need Cal-Mag" ], "related": [ "kb-nutrients-calcium", "kb-nutrients-magnesium", "kb-ph-ec-water-quality", "kb-ph-ec-buffering-coco", "kb-nutrients-feed-by-stage", "kb-nutrients-nutrient-antagonism" ], "sources_count": 8, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-nutrients-calcium", "title": "Calcium (Ca) in cannabis: deficiency, transport, targets and sources", "category": "nutrients", "category_name": "Nutrients", "slug": "calcium", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/nutrients/calcium.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/nutrients/calcium.md", "summary": "Calcium builds cell walls and membranes and moves only in the transpiration stream, so it cannot be moved from old leaves to new ones. Feed about 150–200 mg/L Ca in soilless systems, and remember that most 'calcium deficiency' is a delivery problem (low transpiration, high humidity, root damage, competing K/Mg/NH4) rather than an empty bottle. Classic signs are distorted, stunted new growth and brown spots.", "tags": [ "calcium", "macronutrient", "deficiency", "immobile-nutrient", "transpiration", "coco", "ro-water", "cal-mag" ], "stage": [ "veg", "flower" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "Why do my new leaves have brown spots and twisted tips?", "Calcium deficiency or pH problem?", "How much calcium does cannabis need in coco or hydro?", "Why does calcium deficiency show up in coco with RO water?", "Can high humidity cause calcium deficiency?", "Do LED lights cause calcium deficiency?", "Why does only one strain in my room show calcium deficiency?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-nutrients-cal-mag", "kb-nutrients-magnesium", "kb-nutrients-potassium", "kb-nutrients-mobile-vs-immobile-nutrients", "kb-nutrients-nutrient-antagonism", "kb-ph-ec-buffering-coco" ], "sources_count": 8, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-nutrients-chlorine", "title": "Chlorine and chloride (Cl) in cannabis: a micronutrient you never need to add", "category": "nutrients", "category_name": "Nutrients", "slug": "chlorine", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/nutrients/chlorine.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/nutrients/chlorine.md", "summary": "Chloride (Cl-) is an essential micronutrient for water splitting, osmotic balance and stomata, but the requirement is tiny and always met by water and fertiliser impurities. In practice chloride is a salinity problem, not a deficiency: keep it below roughly 50–70 mg/L in the feed, watch it in coco and some tap waters, and don't confuse chloride (a nutrient ion) with chlorine or chloramine (disinfectants).", "tags": [ "chloride", "chlorine", "micronutrient", "salinity", "toxicity", "water-quality", "coco" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "Is chloride bad for cannabis?", "How much chloride is too much in irrigation water?", "Is calcium chloride safe to use in a cannabis feed?", "What's the difference between chlorine, chloride and chloramine?", "Can coco coir have high chloride?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-nutrients-sodium", "kb-ph-ec-water-quality", "kb-ph-ec-buffering-coco", "kb-nutrients-calcium", "kb-diagnosis-brown-burnt-tips" ], "sources_count": 5, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-nutrients-copper", "title": "Copper (Cu) in cannabis: limp, distorted new growth and root-burning excess", "category": "nutrients", "category_name": "Nutrients", "slug": "copper", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/nutrients/copper.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/nutrients/copper.md", "summary": "Copper is needed for photosynthetic electron transport, lignin and cell-wall strength. Cannabis copper deficiency showed late as stunted, distorted, slightly yellow new leaves that lost turgor and wilted, with a 45% biomass loss. Supply only about 0.03–0.1 mg/L Cu; excess (from copper fungicides, ionisers or pipework) damages roots first.", "tags": [ "copper", "micronutrient", "deficiency", "toxicity", "immobile-nutrient", "wilting", "hydro" ], "stage": [ "veg", "flower" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "What does copper deficiency look like in cannabis?", "Why are my new leaves limp and curling down?", "How much copper in a hydro nutrient solution?", "Is copper toxic to cannabis roots?", "Can copper pipes or ionisers harm a hydro system?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-nutrients-zinc", "kb-nutrients-iron", "kb-nutrients-boron", "kb-nutrients-nutrient-antagonism", "kb-diagnosis-root-browning-hydro", "kb-diagnosis-yellow-new-growth" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-nutrients-flushing", "title": "Flushing before harvest: myth (summary)", "category": "nutrients", "category_name": "Nutrients", "slug": "flushing", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/nutrients/flushing.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/nutrients/flushing.md", "summary": "Pre-harvest flushing is a myth that costs you yield and resin: it starves the plant while it packs on its final weight, trichomes and resin, and controlled studies found no gain in quality, minerals or cannabinoids. Cannabis stores what it takes up in its tissue, so plain water at the end doesn't wash it out. Feed through to harvest at stage-appropriate strength. The one valid flush treats the medium: a root-zone flush to clear salt build-up, at any stage. Full evidence in the flush debate article.", "tags": [ "flushing", "pre-harvest", "harvest", "ash", "taste", "myths", "nutrient-deprivation", "salt-buildup", "root-zone" ], "stage": [ "ripen", "harvest" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "myth", "evidence_name": "Myth", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "Should I flush my cannabis before harvest?", "Is flushing a myth?", "Does flushing improve taste or make white ash?", "When should I flush my medium?" ], "myths": [ "A pre-harvest flush 'cleans' the plant of nutrients" ], "related": [ "kb-harvest-cure-flush-debate", "kb-nutrients-feed-by-stage", "kb-ph-ec-runoff-testing", "kb-nutrients-organic-vs-mineral" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-nutrients-hydroponic-salts", "title": "Hydroponic salts explained: what each fertiliser salt supplies", "category": "nutrients", "category_name": "Nutrients", "slug": "hydroponic-salts", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/nutrients/hydroponic-salts.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/nutrients/hydroponic-salts.md", "summary": "Almost every mineral cannabis feed is built from about a dozen salts: calcium nitrate, potassium nitrate, monopotassium phosphate (MKP), magnesium sulfate, potassium sulfate, a few others, plus chelated iron and trace salts. Each one supplies known percentages of two elements, so 1 g/L of a salt gives (percent x 10) mg/L of each. Calcium must be kept apart from sulfate and phosphate in concentrated stocks, which is why feeds come as A and B.", "tags": [ "salts", "calcium-nitrate", "potassium-nitrate", "mkp", "epsom-salt", "potassium-sulfate", "chelates", "a-b-stock", "diy-nutrients" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "dwc", "rdwc", "nft", "ebb_flow", "drip", "coco", "rockwool", "aero" ], "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "What does calcium nitrate supply?", "How many ppm does 1 gram per litre of MKP give?", "Why are nutrients split into part A and part B?", "Which salts do I need to make my own hydro nutrients?", "What is the difference between EDTA and DTPA iron?", "Is Epsom salt the same as magnesium sulfate?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-nutrients-feed-by-stage", "kb-nutrients-iron", "kb-nutrients-cal-mag", "kb-nutrients-organic-vs-mineral", "kb-ph-ec-ec-ppm-scales", "kb-ph-ec-water-quality" ], "sources_count": 5, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-nutrients-iron", "title": "Iron (Fe) in cannabis: yellow new growth, chelates and pH", "category": "nutrients", "category_name": "Nutrients", "slug": "iron", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/nutrients/iron.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/nutrients/iron.md", "summary": "Iron is needed to make chlorophyll and run electron transport. Deficiency shows as interveinal yellowing of the newest leaves and is almost always caused by high root-zone pH or alkaline water, not a lack of iron in the feed. Supply about 1.5–3 mg/L Fe as a chelate matched to your pH: EDTA up to about 6.5, DTPA to about 7.5, EDDHA to about 9.", "tags": [ "iron", "micronutrient", "chelate", "edta", "dtpa", "eddha", "interveinal-chlorosis", "immobile-nutrient", "alkalinity" ], "stage": [ "veg", "flower" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "Why are my new leaves yellow with green veins?", "Which iron chelate is best for hydro: EDTA, DTPA or EDDHA?", "How many ppm iron in a nutrient solution?", "Iron deficiency or high pH?", "Can low pH cause iron toxicity?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-nutrients-manganese", "kb-nutrients-zinc", "kb-nutrients-hydroponic-salts", "kb-ph-ec-ph-nutrient-availability", "kb-ph-ec-water-quality", "kb-nutrients-nutrient-antagonism" ], "sources_count": 7, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-nutrients-magnesium", "title": "Magnesium (Mg) in cannabis: interveinal yellowing, targets and the K-Ca competition", "category": "nutrients", "category_name": "Nutrients", "slug": "magnesium", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/nutrients/magnesium.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/nutrients/magnesium.md", "summary": "Magnesium sits at the centre of chlorophyll. Cannabis trials put the optimum at about 35–70 mg/L Mg in veg, and Mg supply raised cannabinoid and terpene production in flower. Deficiency shows as interveinal yellowing on older leaves with green veins; it is often induced by low pH or by too much potassium or calcium rather than an actual lack of Mg.", "tags": [ "magnesium", "macronutrient", "deficiency", "interveinal-chlorosis", "mobile-nutrient", "epsom-salt", "cal-mag" ], "stage": [ "veg", "flower" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "Why are my lower leaves yellow between the veins?", "How much magnesium does cannabis need?", "Can I use Epsom salt on cannabis? How much?", "Is it magnesium deficiency or too much potassium?", "Does magnesium increase THC or terpenes?", "Do LED lights need more magnesium?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-nutrients-cal-mag", "kb-nutrients-potassium", "kb-nutrients-calcium", "kb-nutrients-sulfur", "kb-nutrients-nutrient-antagonism", "kb-nutrients-mobile-vs-immobile-nutrients" ], "sources_count": 7, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-nutrients-manganese", "title": "Manganese (Mn) in cannabis: netted chlorosis, low-pH toxicity and the iron balance", "category": "nutrients", "category_name": "Nutrients", "slug": "manganese", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/nutrients/manganese.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/nutrients/manganese.md", "summary": "Manganese is needed to split water in photosynthesis. Deficiency gives a bright yellow, netted interveinal chlorosis on upper and middle leaves with small tan spots; toxicity, usually from low root-zone pH, gives yellowing and necrosis of older leaf margins. Supply about 0.3–0.8 mg/L Mn and keep pH in range, because Mn availability swings strongly with pH.", "tags": [ "manganese", "micronutrient", "deficiency", "toxicity", "interveinal-chlorosis", "low-ph", "iron" ], "stage": [ "veg", "flower" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "What does manganese deficiency look like in cannabis?", "Can low pH cause manganese toxicity?", "How much manganese in a hydroponic solution?", "Iron or manganese deficiency, how do I tell?", "Why do I have yellow netting between veins on top leaves?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-nutrients-iron", "kb-nutrients-zinc", "kb-nutrients-nutrient-antagonism", "kb-ph-ec-ph-nutrient-availability", "kb-diagnosis-yellow-new-growth" ], "sources_count": 6, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-nutrients-mobile-vs-immobile-nutrients", "title": "Mobile vs immobile nutrients: reading old vs new leaves", "category": "nutrients", "category_name": "Nutrients", "slug": "mobile-vs-immobile-nutrients", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/nutrients/mobile-vs-immobile-nutrients.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/nutrients/mobile-vs-immobile-nutrients.md", "summary": "Mobile nutrients (N, P, K, Mg, and also Cl, Mo, Ni) can be moved from old leaves to new ones through the phloem, so their shortages show on the oldest, lowest leaves first. Immobile nutrients (Ca, B, Fe, Mn, Cu, Zn, and partly S) stay where they were first deposited, so shortages show on new growth. It is the first fork in any deficiency diagnosis, with a few cannabis-specific exceptions.", "tags": [ "mobility", "phloem", "xylem", "diagnosis", "deficiency", "old-leaves", "new-leaves" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "Which nutrients are mobile in cannabis?", "Why do deficiencies show on bottom leaves or top leaves?", "Yellow new growth vs yellow old leaves, what does it mean?", "Is calcium mobile or immobile?", "How do I tell nitrogen from iron deficiency?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-nutrients-nitrogen", "kb-nutrients-calcium", "kb-nutrients-iron", "kb-nutrients-sulfur", "kb-diagnosis-yellowing-lower-leaves", "kb-diagnosis-yellow-new-growth" ], "sources_count": 5, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-nutrients-molybdenum", "title": "Molybdenum (Mo) in cannabis: the trace element nitrate depends on", "category": "nutrients", "category_name": "Nutrients", "slug": "molybdenum", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/nutrients/molybdenum.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/nutrients/molybdenum.md", "summary": "Molybdenum is a cofactor for nitrate reductase, so a nitrate-fed plant cannot use its nitrogen without it. Cannabis needs a minuscule amount (about 0.01–0.05 mg/L Mo); in a 9-week trial, cannabis grown with no Mo showed no visible symptoms at all despite 96% lower leaf Mo. Unlike the other micronutrients, Mo becomes more available as pH rises, so deficiency is a low-pH, acid-soil problem.", "tags": [ "molybdenum", "micronutrient", "nitrate-reductase", "deficiency", "high-ph" ], "stage": [ "veg", "flower" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "advanced", "qa": [ "Does cannabis need molybdenum?", "What does molybdenum deficiency look like?", "How much molybdenum in a hydroponic solution?", "Why would a plant fed nitrate still look nitrogen deficient?", "Is molybdenum available at low pH?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-nutrients-nitrogen", "kb-nutrients-hydroponic-salts", "kb-ph-ec-ph-nutrient-availability", "kb-nutrients-mobile-vs-immobile-nutrients" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-nutrients-nickel", "title": "Nickel (Ni) in cannabis: essential, needed in traces, almost never worth adding", "category": "nutrients", "category_name": "Nutrients", "slug": "nickel", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/nutrients/nickel.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/nutrients/nickel.md", "summary": "Nickel became the most recently accepted essential plant micronutrient in 1987; its known job is activating urease, the enzyme that breaks down urea. Requirements are so small that contamination in salts, water and media normally covers them, and there is no published evidence of nickel deficiency in cannabis. Do not add nickel unless you feed urea in a very pure system; excess nickel is toxic and cannabis is known to accumulate metals.", "tags": [ "nickel", "micronutrient", "urease", "urea", "trace-element", "toxicity" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "advanced", "qa": [ "Does cannabis need nickel?", "Should I add nickel to my hydroponic nutrients?", "What does nickel do in plants?", "Can urea fertilizer cause leaf tip burn without nickel?", "Is nickel toxic to cannabis?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-nutrients-nitrogen", "kb-nutrients-hydroponic-salts", "kb-nutrients-molybdenum", "kb-ph-ec-water-quality" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-nutrients-nitrogen", "title": "Nitrogen (N) in cannabis: nitrate vs ammonium, deficiency, toxicity and targets", "category": "nutrients", "category_name": "Nutrients", "slug": "nitrogen", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/nutrients/nitrogen.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/nutrients/nitrogen.md", "summary": "Nitrogen drives leaf growth and photosynthesis. Cannabis does best on mostly nitrate N (about 150–200 mg/L in soilless veg and early flower), with ammonium kept at or below about 10–30% of total N; above 30% ammonium, cannabis trials show toxicity and lost yield. Deficiency yellows the oldest leaves first; excess gives dark, clawed leaves and soft, leafy growth.", "tags": [ "nitrogen", "nitrate", "ammonium", "macronutrient", "deficiency", "toxicity", "mobile-nutrient", "hydro", "coco", "soil" ], "stage": [ "seedling", "veg", "transition", "flower", "ripen" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "How much nitrogen does cannabis need in veg and flower?", "Nitrate or ammonium for cannabis?", "Why are my bottom leaves turning yellow?", "What does nitrogen toxicity look like? Dark green clawed leaves?", "How many ppm N in a hydro nutrient solution?", "Is ammonium bad for cannabis?", "Does lower nitrogen raise THC percentage?", "How do I taper nitrogen before harvest?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-harvest-cure-flush-debate", "kb-nutrients-mobile-vs-immobile-nutrients", "kb-nutrients-feed-by-stage", "kb-nutrients-hydroponic-salts", "kb-ph-ec-ph-drift-hydro", "kb-diagnosis-yellowing-lower-leaves" ], "sources_count": 8, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-nutrients-nutrient-antagonism", "title": "Nutrient antagonism and Mulder's chart: what the evidence actually says", "category": "nutrients", "category_name": "Nutrients", "slug": "nutrient-antagonism", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/nutrients/nutrient-antagonism.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/nutrients/nutrient-antagonism.md", "summary": "Mulder's chart is a mid-20th-century wheel of nutrient interactions. It is a useful reminder that excess of one nutrient can suppress another, but it is a teaching sketch, not a quantitative tool. A review of 117 published interactions found synergy far more often than antagonism; the antagonisms that reliably matter in practice are among cations (K, Ca, Mg, NH4, Na), phosphorus with zinc and iron, and iron with manganese.", "tags": [ "antagonism", "synergism", "mulders-chart", "lockout", "potassium", "calcium", "magnesium", "phosphorus", "iron", "zinc" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "What is Mulder's chart?", "Does too much potassium lock out magnesium?", "What is nutrient lockout and is it real?", "Which nutrients compete with each other?", "Can too much phosphorus cause zinc deficiency?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-nutrients-potassium", "kb-nutrients-calcium", "kb-nutrients-magnesium", "kb-nutrients-phosphorus", "kb-nutrients-iron", "kb-nutrients-manganese" ], "sources_count": 7, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-nutrients-organic-vs-mineral", "title": "Organic vs mineral nutrition for cannabis: what the trials show", "category": "nutrients", "category_name": "Nutrients", "slug": "organic-vs-mineral", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/nutrients/organic-vs-mineral.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/nutrients/organic-vs-mineral.md", "summary": "Plants absorb the same ions whether they came from a bag of salts or from compost; the differences are in speed, precision and what else comes along. Controlled cannabis trials show mineral feeds deliver nutrients more efficiently and organic liquid feeds need higher nominal N to match them. Organic and lower-input regimes can keep cannabinoid content per gram up while yield falls. Plants mostly don't care where the ions come from; slight differences in flavonoids or terpenes are possible but unproven, and no controlled blind trial shows organic flower tastes better.", "tags": [ "organic", "mineral", "synthetic", "living-soil", "fertiliser", "humic-acid", "flavour", "yield" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "Is organic or synthetic nutrients better for cannabis?", "Does organic cannabis taste better?", "Can I use organic nutrients in hydroponics?", "Why do organic feeds need more nitrogen?", "Do humic acids help cannabis?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-nutrients-feed-by-stage", "kb-nutrients-hydroponic-salts", "kb-nutrients-nitrogen", "kb-harvest-cure-flush-debate", "kb-ph-ec-ph-nutrient-availability", "kb-diseases-root-rot-pythium" ], "sources_count": 6, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-nutrients-per-element-tricks", "title": "Per-element feeding tricks: what growers adjust, stage by stage", "category": "nutrients", "category_name": "Nutrients", "slug": "per-element-tricks", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/nutrients/per-element-tricks.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/nutrients/per-element-tricks.md", "summary": "Experienced growers change single elements by stage rather than just turning the whole feed up or down: tapering nitrogen in late flower, cutting the ammonium share after the flip, a little extra calcium through the stretch, small magnesium, boron and zinc bumps in flower, silicon in veg. Most of these tricks are grower practice with little or no controlled research behind them. Two popular ones are contradicted by research: extra phosphorus above about 30–60 mg/L and potassium 'ramps' above about 250 mg/L did not raise yield or cannabinoids in controlled cannabis trials. Sugars and molasses feed soil microbes only, not the plant, and do harm in hydro. The GenetixBay approach is to taper nitrogen and keep everything else fed, which needs single salts or per-element dosing.", "tags": [ "per-element-dosing", "nitrogen-taper", "ammonium", "phosphorus", "potassium", "calcium", "magnesium", "sulfur", "silicon", "micronutrients", "crop-steering", "ec", "additives", "single-salts" ], "stage": [ "veg", "transition", "flower", "ripen" ], "systems": [ "coco", "rockwool", "dwc", "rdwc", "nft", "ebb_flow", "drip", "aero" ], "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "level": "advanced", "qa": [ "What nutrient tricks do growers use in late flower?", "Should I raise potassium in late flower?", "Does more phosphorus in flower make bigger buds?", "How much ammonium should be in a flowering feed?", "Should I add extra calcium during the stretch?", "Does sulfur increase terpenes or skunky smell?", "Should I keep silica in flower?", "Does molasses make buds sweeter?", "Should I put plants in darkness before harvest?", "Do cold nights increase terpenes?", "Should I drop EC before harvest or just cut nitrogen?", "How do I taper nitrogen without dropping calcium?" ], "myths": [ "Molasses in the reservoir sweetens and fattens buds", "More sulfur means more terpenes" ], "related": [ "kb-nutrients-nitrogen", "kb-nutrients-feed-by-stage", "kb-nutrients-hydroponic-salts", "kb-nutrients-bloom-boosters", "kb-nutrients-nutrient-antagonism", "kb-nutrients-phosphorus" ], "sources_count": 10, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-nutrients-phosphorus", "title": "Phosphorus (P) in cannabis: what it does, deficiency, excess and how much is enough", "category": "nutrients", "category_name": "Nutrients", "slug": "phosphorus", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/nutrients/phosphorus.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/nutrients/phosphorus.md", "summary": "Phosphorus powers energy transfer (ATP), roots and flowering, but cannabis needs far less than 'bloom' marketing implies. Controlled trials found no yield or cannabinoid gain above roughly 25–60 mg/L P in solution; extra P just ends up in the runoff and can tie up zinc, iron and calcium. Deficiency shows as dark, dull, olive-spotted older leaves and stunting.", "tags": [ "phosphorus", "macronutrient", "deficiency", "bloom", "mobile-nutrient", "hydro", "coco", "soil" ], "stage": [ "seedling", "veg", "flower" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "How much phosphorus does cannabis need in flower?", "Does more phosphorus make bigger buds?", "What does phosphorus deficiency look like in cannabis?", "Why do my lower leaves have dark olive or brown spots?", "Can too much phosphorus cause zinc or iron deficiency?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-nutrients-bloom-boosters", "kb-nutrients-feed-by-stage", "kb-nutrients-nutrient-antagonism", "kb-nutrients-zinc", "kb-nutrients-iron", "kb-diagnosis-rust-spots" ], "sources_count": 7, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-nutrients-potassium", "title": "Potassium (K) in cannabis: role, deficiency, excess and K-Ca-Mg balance", "category": "nutrients", "category_name": "Nutrients", "slug": "potassium", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/nutrients/potassium.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/nutrients/potassium.md", "summary": "Potassium runs water relations, stomata and sugar transport. Cannabis grows well on roughly 175–240 mg/L K in veg, and a flowering DWC trial found no yield response anywhere between 60 and 340 mg/L K, so more is not better. Deficiency scorches the margins and serrations of older leaves; excess K mainly does harm by suppressing calcium and magnesium uptake.", "tags": [ "potassium", "macronutrient", "deficiency", "antagonism", "calcium", "magnesium", "mobile-nutrient", "flower" ], "stage": [ "veg", "flower", "ripen" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "How much potassium does cannabis need in flower?", "Why are the edges of my lower leaves yellow and crispy?", "Can too much potassium cause magnesium or calcium deficiency?", "Do PK boosters help cannabis?", "What does potassium deficiency look like?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-nutrients-calcium", "kb-nutrients-magnesium", "kb-nutrients-nutrient-antagonism", "kb-nutrients-bloom-boosters", "kb-nutrients-feed-by-stage", "kb-diagnosis-yellowing-lower-leaves" ], "sources_count": 7, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-nutrients-silicon", "title": "Silicon (Si) for cannabis: beneficial, not essential, and how to dose it", "category": "nutrients", "category_name": "Nutrients", "slug": "silicon", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/nutrients/silicon.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/nutrients/silicon.md", "summary": "Silicon is a beneficial element, not an essential one. It strengthens cell walls and reduces abiotic and some disease stress in many crops, and cannabis does take it up, but cannabis-specific evidence for yield or quality benefits is thin. If you use it, add potassium silicate first to the water at about 20–50 mg/L Si, before other nutrients, and correct pH afterwards because it is strongly alkaline.", "tags": [ "silicon", "silica", "potassium-silicate", "beneficial-element", "stress", "powdery-mildew", "hydro" ], "stage": [ "veg", "flower" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "contested", "evidence_name": "Contested", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "Does cannabis need silica?", "How much silica to add to a hydro reservoir?", "Why do I add silica first when mixing nutrients?", "Does silicon prevent powdery mildew in cannabis?", "Silica ppm SiO2 vs Si, what's the difference?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-nutrients-hydroponic-salts", "kb-nutrients-potassium", "kb-ph-ec-ph-drift-hydro", "kb-diseases-powdery-mildew", "kb-nutrients-feed-by-stage" ], "sources_count": 5, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-nutrients-sodium", "title": "Sodium (Na) and cannabis: a salt to keep low, not a nutrient to add", "category": "nutrients", "category_name": "Nutrients", "slug": "sodium", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/nutrients/sodium.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/nutrients/sodium.md", "summary": "Sodium is not essential for cannabis. It can partly substitute for potassium in some plants, but in cannabis the controlled data show only harm: cannabinoids fall linearly as NaCl rises, and more than about 5 mM NaCl (115 mg/L Na) may reduce yield in hydro. Keep sodium below about 50 mg/L in the feed, never use ion-exchange softened water, and watch it build up in coco and recirculating systems.", "tags": [ "sodium", "salinity", "water-quality", "softened-water", "coco", "recirculating", "toxicity" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "Is sodium bad for cannabis?", "Can I use softened water on cannabis?", "How much sodium is too much in irrigation water?", "Does salt stress increase THC?", "Why does sodium build up in recirculating hydro?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-nutrients-chlorine", "kb-nutrients-potassium", "kb-ph-ec-water-quality", "kb-ph-ec-buffering-coco", "kb-ph-ec-runoff-testing", "kb-diagnosis-brown-burnt-tips" ], "sources_count": 5, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-nutrients-sulfur", "title": "Sulfur (S) in cannabis: role, deficiency, targets and sulfate sources", "category": "nutrients", "category_name": "Nutrients", "slug": "sulfur", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/nutrients/sulfur.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/nutrients/sulfur.md", "summary": "Sulfur is part of the amino acids cysteine and methionine and of glutathione; cannabis also makes sulfur-containing aroma compounds. Feeds usually supply 50–120 mg/L S as sulfate without trying, via magnesium and potassium sulfate. Deficiency yellows the middle and newer leaves evenly, strongest at the leaflet base, and is rare unless a feed is built entirely from nitrates and chlorides.", "tags": [ "sulfur", "sulfate", "macronutrient", "deficiency", "intermediate-mobility", "aroma" ], "stage": [ "veg", "flower" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "What does sulfur deficiency look like in cannabis?", "Why is the middle of my plant turning pale yellow?", "How much sulfur does cannabis need?", "Does sulfur make cannabis smell stronger?", "Sulfur deficiency or nitrogen deficiency?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-nutrients-nitrogen", "kb-nutrients-magnesium", "kb-nutrients-hydroponic-salts", "kb-nutrients-mobile-vs-immobile-nutrients", "kb-diagnosis-yellow-new-growth" ], "sources_count": 6, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-nutrients-zinc", "title": "Zinc (Zn) in cannabis: small leaves, margin burn and the phosphorus link", "category": "nutrients", "category_name": "Nutrients", "slug": "zinc", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/nutrients/zinc.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/nutrients/zinc.md", "summary": "Zinc is needed for many enzymes and for making the growth hormone auxin. Deficiency in cannabis shows late, as yellowing and then tan necrosis along the toothed margins of new leaves, often with small leaves and short internodes elsewhere in the literature. Supply about 0.1–0.5 mg/L Zn; high pH and very high phosphorus are the usual reasons a fed plant runs short.", "tags": [ "zinc", "micronutrient", "deficiency", "toxicity", "immobile-nutrient", "phosphorus", "high-ph" ], "stage": [ "veg", "flower" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "What does zinc deficiency look like in cannabis?", "Why are my new leaves small with burnt edges?", "How much zinc in a hydro feed?", "Can too much phosphorus cause zinc deficiency?", "Is zinc toxic to cannabis?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-nutrients-phosphorus", "kb-nutrients-iron", "kb-nutrients-copper", "kb-nutrients-nutrient-antagonism", "kb-ph-ec-ph-nutrient-availability", "kb-diagnosis-yellow-new-growth" ], "sources_count": 5, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-ph-ec-buffering-coco", "title": "Buffering coco coir: why it matters and how to do it", "category": "ph-ec", "category_name": "pH and EC", "slug": "buffering-coco", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/ph-ec/buffering-coco.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/ph-ec/buffering-coco.md", "summary": "Coco coir has a high cation exchange capacity that arrives loaded with potassium and sodium. Unbuffered, it grabs calcium and magnesium from your feed and releases K and Na, causing early Ca/Mg deficiency. Buffering means soaking washed coco in a calcium (and usually magnesium) nitrate solution so the exchange sites are filled with Ca and Mg before planting, then rinsing. It is standard grower and industry practice with sound chemistry behind it, though controlled studies on cannabis are lacking.", "tags": [ "coco", "coir", "buffering", "cation-exchange", "calcium-nitrate", "potassium", "sodium", "cal-mag" ], "stage": [ "seedling", "veg" ], "systems": [ "coco" ], "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "Do I need to buffer coco coir?", "How do I buffer coco with Cal-Mag or calcium nitrate?", "Why does my plant get calcium deficiency in new coco?", "What is the difference between washed and buffered coco?", "How long should I soak coco to buffer it?", "Can I reuse coco without buffering?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-nutrients-cal-mag", "kb-nutrients-calcium", "kb-nutrients-magnesium", "kb-nutrients-sodium", "kb-nutrients-chlorine", "kb-ph-ec-runoff-testing" ], "sources_count": 6, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-ph-ec-ec-ppm-scales", "title": "EC vs PPM: the 500 and 700 scales, CF, and how to convert", "category": "ph-ec", "category_name": "pH and EC", "slug": "ec-ppm-scales", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/ph-ec/ec-ppm-scales.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/ph-ec/ec-ppm-scales.md", "summary": "EC (electrical conductivity, in mS/cm) is what every meter actually measures. 'PPM' or TDS readings are EC multiplied by an assumed factor: 0.5 on the 500 (NaCl) scale, 0.7 on the 700 (442 or KCl-style) scale, sometimes 0.64. So 1.0 mS/cm reads 500 ppm on one meter and 700 ppm on another. Always talk in EC, or state the scale. Feed charts quoting ppm without a scale are ambiguous by 40%.", "tags": [ "ec", "ppm", "tds", "conversion", "500-scale", "700-scale", "cf", "meters", "units" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "How do I convert EC to ppm?", "What is the difference between the 500 and 700 ppm scales?", "Is my meter 500 or 700 scale?", "What is CF in hydroponics?", "What EC is 1000 ppm?", "mS/cm vs µS/cm vs dS/m?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-nutrients-feed-by-stage", "kb-ph-ec-meter-calibration", "kb-ph-ec-runoff-testing", "kb-ph-ec-water-quality" ], "sources_count": 5, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-ph-ec-meter-calibration", "title": "pH and EC meter calibration: buffers, slope, storage and when to replace a probe", "category": "ph-ec", "category_name": "pH and EC", "slug": "meter-calibration", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/ph-ec/meter-calibration.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/ph-ec/meter-calibration.md", "summary": "Calibrate pH meters with at least two fresh buffers that bracket your readings (pH 7 then pH 4 for growing), before any session where decisions matter and at least weekly. Store glass pH probes wet in storage solution or pH 4/7 buffer, never in RO water or dry. Check EC meters against a 1.413 mS/cm standard. A pH probe with a slope below about 90-95% or one that can no longer be adjusted to buffer should be replaced; typical glass electrodes last one to two years.", "tags": [ "calibration", "ph-meter", "ec-meter", "probe", "buffer", "slope", "offset", "storage-solution", "sensors", "maintenance" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "How do I calibrate a pH pen?", "How often should I calibrate my pH meter?", "How should I store a pH probe?", "Why does my pH meter drift?", "What is pH probe slope and offset?", "How do I calibrate an EC meter?", "When should I replace my pH probe?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-ph-ec-ph-nutrient-availability", "kb-ph-ec-ec-ppm-scales", "kb-ph-ec-runoff-testing", "kb-ph-ec-ph-drift-hydro" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-ph-ec-ph-nutrient-availability", "title": "pH and nutrient availability: what pH really controls, by medium", "category": "ph-ec", "category_name": "pH and EC", "slug": "ph-nutrient-availability", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/ph-ec/ph-nutrient-availability.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/ph-ec/ph-nutrient-availability.md", "summary": "pH controls how soluble each nutrient is and how well roots absorb it. The accepted ranges are soil about 6.0–7.0 and soilless/hydro about 5.5–6.5 (sweet spots: 5.5–6.2 in hydro, 5.8–6.3 in coco and rockwool, 6.2–6.8 in soil), and drift within the range is normal. High pH starves plants of iron, manganese, zinc, boron and phosphorus; low pH makes iron and manganese overly available and reduces calcium, magnesium and molybdenum. The classic availability bar chart was built for mineral soils and overstates the effect in chelated soilless feeds. The ranges are broadly agreed accepted practice, from extension and grower consensus.", "tags": [ "ph", "nutrient-availability", "lockout", "hydro", "coco", "soil", "chelates", "micronutrients" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "What pH should I use for cannabis in soil, coco and hydro?", "What is nutrient lockout from pH?", "Why is the hydro pH range lower than soil?", "Is the pH nutrient availability chart accurate?", "What happens if my pH is too high?", "What happens if my pH is too low?", "Is it OK if my pH drifts?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-harvest-cure-flush-debate", "kb-ph-ec-ph-drift-hydro", "kb-ph-ec-water-quality", "kb-ph-ec-meter-calibration", "kb-ph-ec-runoff-testing", "kb-nutrients-iron" ], "sources_count": 7, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-ph-ec-ph-drift-hydro", "title": "pH drift in hydro: why reservoir pH rises (and sometimes falls)", "category": "ph-ec", "category_name": "pH and EC", "slug": "ph-drift-hydro", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/ph-ec/ph-drift-hydro.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/ph-ec/ph-drift-hydro.md", "summary": "Reservoir pH usually rises because plants absorb nitrate and release hydroxide or bicarbonate to stay electrically balanced; aeration driving off CO2, alkaline top-up water and algae add to it. Ammonium does the opposite. A steady upward drift of a few tenths per day in a healthy, growing system is normal. Manage it with a small ammonium share (5–15% of N), acidifying alkaline water, and letting pH ride within 5.5–6.2 rather than chasing a single number. A fast unexplained fall, or a rise with brown roots, points to root or microbial trouble.", "tags": [ "ph-drift", "hydro", "dwc", "rdwc", "nft", "nitrate", "ammonium", "alkalinity", "co2", "reservoir" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "dwc", "rdwc", "nft", "ebb_flow", "aero", "drip" ], "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "Why does my hydro pH keep going up?", "Why is my DWC pH dropping?", "How often should I adjust pH in hydro?", "Is pH drift a sign of a problem?", "How do I stop pH swings in RO water?", "Does an air stone raise pH?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-ph-ec-ph-nutrient-availability", "kb-ph-ec-water-quality", "kb-ph-ec-meter-calibration", "kb-nutrients-nitrogen", "kb-nutrients-silicon", "kb-diagnosis-root-browning-hydro" ], "sources_count": 6, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-ph-ec-runoff-testing", "title": "Runoff testing: how to measure root-zone pH and EC and what the numbers mean", "category": "ph-ec", "category_name": "pH and EC", "slug": "runoff-testing", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/ph-ec/runoff-testing.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/ph-ec/runoff-testing.md", "summary": "Runoff (leachate) pH and EC tell you what the roots are actually sitting in, which is often different from what you fed. Use the pour-through method: water to full saturation, wait 30 minutes to 2 hours, then pour a measured amount of water on top and collect about 50 mL. Compare runoff EC with input EC: higher means salts are building up, much lower means the plant is hungry or you are over-leaching. Track the trend over weeks rather than reacting to one reading.", "tags": [ "runoff", "pour-through", "leachate", "ec", "ph", "coco", "soil", "rockwool", "salt-buildup", "monitoring" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "soil", "coco", "rockwool", "drip", "living_soil" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "How do I test runoff pH and EC?", "What should my runoff EC be compared to my input?", "Why is my runoff EC higher than what I feed?", "Why is my runoff pH different from my feed pH?", "What is the pour-through method?", "How much runoff should I get in coco?", "How do I flush salt build-up out of my medium?", "Should I flush before harvest?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-harvest-cure-flush-debate", "kb-ph-ec-ph-nutrient-availability", "kb-ph-ec-ec-ppm-scales", "kb-ph-ec-meter-calibration", "kb-ph-ec-buffering-coco", "kb-nutrients-flushing" ], "sources_count": 5, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-ph-ec-water-quality", "title": "Water quality for cannabis: RO vs tap, alkalinity, bicarbonates and chloramine", "category": "ph-ec", "category_name": "pH and EC", "slug": "water-quality", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/ph-ec/water-quality.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/ph-ec/water-quality.md", "summary": "Get a water report before choosing a feed. Alkalinity (bicarbonate), not water pH, is what pushes root-zone pH up over time; above about 100–150 mg/L as CaCO3 (2–3 meq/L) it should be partly neutralised with acid. Tap water may also add useful Ca and Mg, or harmful sodium, chloride and boron. RO water removes nearly everything, which gives precise control but means you must add back Ca and Mg. Chloramine does not evaporate; remove it with long-contact or catalytic carbon or ascorbic acid if you run living soil or beneficial microbes.", "tags": [ "water-quality", "ro", "reverse-osmosis", "tap-water", "alkalinity", "bicarbonate", "hardness", "chloramine", "chlorine", "sodium", "acid-injection" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "Should I use RO water or tap water for cannabis?", "What is alkalinity and why does it matter?", "How much acid do I need to treat hard water?", "Does chloramine hurt cannabis or soil microbes?", "Does letting tap water sit remove chloramine?", "What is a good EC for source water?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-ph-ec-ph-nutrient-availability", "kb-ph-ec-ph-drift-hydro", "kb-nutrients-cal-mag", "kb-nutrients-sodium", "kb-nutrients-chlorine", "kb-nutrients-boron" ], "sources_count": 7, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-systems-bottom-watering-wick", "title": "Bottom-watering, soak trays and wick (self-watering) systems", "category": "systems", "category_name": "Systems", "slug": "bottom-watering-wick", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/systems/bottom-watering-wick.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/systems/bottom-watering-wick.md", "summary": "Bottom-watering lets pots draw solution up from a tray, either by a timed soak (flood 2–5 cm for 10–30 minutes, then drain) or by a constant shallow level held by a float valve or wick. It is gentle and labour-saving and suits soil, but salts accumulate at the top of the pot, so feed at lower EC than top-feeding and top-water to runoff every week or two.", "tags": [ "bottom-watering", "subirrigation", "wick", "self-watering", "float-valve", "soak" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "soil", "coco", "living_soil" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "Is bottom watering good for cannabis?", "Do self-watering pots work for cannabis?", "Why is there white crust on top of my bottom-watered pots?", "Should I bottom water seedlings?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-systems-ebb-and-flow", "kb-systems-soil", "kb-systems-living-soil", "kb-systems-choosing-a-system" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-systems-choosing-a-system", "title": "Choosing your growing system: soil, coco, rockwool or hydro", "category": "systems", "category_name": "Systems", "slug": "choosing-a-system", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/systems/choosing-a-system.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/systems/choosing-a-system.md", "summary": "Choose by how much attention and measurement you can give, not by yield claims. Soil and living soil forgive mistakes for days; coco and drip need daily feeding; DWC, NFT and aeroponics grow fast but can lose roots within hours if a pump or air supply fails. No controlled study shows one system out-yielding the others when light and climate are equal.", "tags": [ "comparison", "beginner", "soil", "coco", "hydroponics", "aeroponics", "decision" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "What is the best growing system for a beginner?", "Is hydro better than soil for cannabis?", "Which system gives the biggest yield?", "Coco or soil?", "Which hydroponic system is easiest?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-systems-soil", "kb-systems-living-soil", "kb-systems-coco", "kb-systems-rockwool", "kb-systems-dwc", "kb-systems-rdwc" ], "sources_count": 5, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-systems-dwc", "title": "Deep water culture (DWC)", "category": "systems", "category_name": "Systems", "slug": "dwc", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/systems/dwc.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/systems/dwc.md", "summary": "In DWC roots hang in an aerated nutrient solution. It grows fast but depends on two things: dissolved oxygen (keep above about 6 mg/L, ideally near saturation) and solution temperature (18–22 °C / 64–72 °F). Warm, poorly aerated water is how Pythium root rot starts. Run pH 5.6–6.0 and EC 0.8–2.0 mS/cm by stage, and treat the air pump as life support.", "tags": [ "dwc", "hydroponics", "dissolved-oxygen", "reservoir", "air-pump", "root-rot" ], "stage": [ "veg", "flower" ], "systems": [ "dwc" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "Should my reservoir be sterile or full of beneficial microbes?", "What water temperature for DWC?", "How much air does a DWC bucket need?", "Why are my DWC roots brown and slimy?", "How often should I change the DWC reservoir?", "What pH for DWC cannabis?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-systems-rdwc", "kb-systems-kratky", "kb-systems-nft", "kb-systems-choosing-a-system", "kb-environment-temperature-by-stage", "kb-diseases-root-rot-pythium" ], "sources_count": 5, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-systems-drain-to-waste-crop-steering", "title": "Drain-to-waste drip and crop steering (generative vs vegetative dryback)", "category": "systems", "category_name": "Systems", "slug": "drain-to-waste-crop-steering", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/systems/drain-to-waste-crop-steering.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/systems/drain-to-waste-crop-steering.md", "summary": "Drain-to-waste drip sends fresh solution every shot and discards runoff, so you control the root zone by irrigation timing, shot size and substrate EC measured with a VWC/EC probe. Vegetative steering uses earlier first shots, larger shots and small overnight drybacks (about 10–15 % VWC); generative steering delays the first shot, uses smaller shots, longer P3 and larger drybacks (about 20–35 %) with higher substrate EC. The ranges are grower practice; one cannabis study found controlled late-flower drought raised cannabinoid concentration.", "tags": [ "drain-to-waste", "crop-steering", "dryback", "vwc", "substrate-ec", "p1-p2-p3", "generative", "vegetative" ], "stage": [ "veg", "transition", "flower" ], "systems": [ "drip", "coco", "rockwool" ], "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "level": "advanced", "qa": [ "What is crop steering?", "What is generative vs vegetative steering?", "What are P1, P2 and P3 irrigation phases?", "How much dryback should I run in flower?", "Do I need a substrate sensor for crop steering?", "Does drought stress increase THC?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-systems-rockwool", "kb-systems-coco", "kb-systems-recirculating-drip", "kb-systems-choosing-a-system", "kb-harvest-cure-flush-debate" ], "sources_count": 5, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-systems-ebb-and-flow", "title": "Ebb and flow (flood and drain)", "category": "systems", "category_name": "Systems", "slug": "ebb-and-flow", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/systems/ebb-and-flow.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/systems/ebb-and-flow.md", "summary": "A pump floods a table or tray of pots to a standpipe height, then the solution drains back to the reservoir. Each flood refreshes water and pulls fresh air into the medium as it drains. Typical schedules: clay pebbles 3–6 floods per light period of 10–15 minutes, coco or rockwool 1–3. It is robust because the media buffer pump failures for days, but salts can build up at the top of the medium.", "tags": [ "ebb-and-flow", "flood-and-drain", "flood-table", "clay-pebbles", "recirculating" ], "stage": [ "veg", "flower" ], "systems": [ "ebb_flow" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "How often should I flood an ebb and flow table?", "What media works in ebb and flow?", "How long should each flood last?", "Why are salts building up on top of my pots?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-systems-bottom-watering-wick", "kb-systems-recirculating-drip", "kb-systems-rockwool", "kb-systems-coco", "kb-systems-choosing-a-system" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-systems-fogponics", "title": "Fogponics: ultrasonic fog for roots (a supplement, not a system)", "category": "systems", "category_name": "Systems", "slug": "fogponics", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/systems/fogponics.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/systems/fogponics.md", "summary": "Fogponics uses ultrasonic transducers to make a 5–10 µm water fog that is blown into a root chamber. Fog carries very little dissolved nutrient (salts stay behind and concentrate in the fogger tank), transducers wear out in roughly 1,000–3,000 hours and run hot, so GenetixBay treats fog as a humidity supplement for cloning domes and aeroponic chambers, not as a standalone way to feed a flowering plant.", "tags": [ "fogponics", "ultrasonic", "fogger", "cloning", "root-chamber" ], "stage": [ "seedling", "veg" ], "systems": [ "aero" ], "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "Does fogponics work for cannabis?", "Can foggers feed plants nutrients?", "How long do ultrasonic foggers last?", "Is fogponics good for clones?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-systems-lpa-aeroponics", "kb-systems-hpa-aeroponics", "kb-germination-seedling-care" ], "sources_count": 2, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-systems-coco", "title": "Growing in coco coir", "category": "systems", "category_name": "Systems", "slug": "coco", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/systems/coco.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/systems/coco.md", "summary": "Coco coir is a hydroponic substrate that looks like soil: inert-ish, airy, and fed every irrigation with a complete mineral solution at pH 5.8–6.2 and EC 1.2–2.4 mS/cm with 10–20 % runoff. Use pre-washed, buffered coco or buffer it yourself with a calcium/magnesium solution, because raw coir holds potassium and sodium and grabs calcium and magnesium.", "tags": [ "coco", "coir", "buffering", "cal-mag", "runoff", "high-frequency-fertigation" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "coco" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "What size pot for coco?", "Do I need to buffer coco coir?", "What pH for coco?", "How often should I water coco?", "Why do my coco plants get calcium deficiency?", "Can coco dry out completely?", "Coco vs soil for beginners?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-harvest-cure-flush-debate", "kb-systems-recirculating-drip", "kb-systems-drain-to-waste-crop-steering", "kb-systems-soil", "kb-systems-rockwool", "kb-systems-choosing-a-system" ], "sources_count": 6, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-systems-rockwool", "title": "Growing in rockwool (stonewool cubes and slabs)", "category": "systems", "category_name": "Systems", "slug": "rockwool", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/systems/rockwool.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/systems/rockwool.md", "summary": "Rockwool is an inert, unbuffered mineral fibre that holds a lot of water and air and gives precise control over the root zone. Pre-soak at pH about 5.5, run pH 5.5–6.0 and EC 1.8–3.0 mS/cm in flower, and manage it by volumetric water content and slab EC. It is the native medium of crop steering, and it punishes neglect quickly because nothing buffers mistakes.", "tags": [ "rockwool", "stonewool", "slab", "cube", "crop-steering", "inert-media" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "rockwool" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "advanced", "qa": [ "Do I need to pre-soak rockwool?", "What pH for rockwool?", "How do I know when to water rockwool slabs?", "Rockwool vs coco for cannabis?", "Is rockwool dust dangerous?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-harvest-cure-flush-debate", "kb-systems-drain-to-waste-crop-steering", "kb-systems-coco", "kb-systems-ebb-and-flow", "kb-systems-recirculating-drip", "kb-systems-choosing-a-system" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-systems-soil", "title": "Growing in soil (potting mix with bottled feed)", "category": "systems", "category_name": "Systems", "slug": "soil", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/systems/soil.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/systems/soil.md", "summary": "Soil (a peat- or compost-based potting mix fed with dilute bottled nutrients) is the most forgiving system: it buffers pH and nutrients and holds water for days. Water to light runoff when the pot is light, feed at EC 0.8–1.6 mS/cm with water at pH 6.2–6.8, and remember that over-watering, not under-feeding, kills most soil plants.", "tags": [ "soil", "potting-mix", "watering", "ph", "beginner", "containers" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "soil" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "Does a bigger pot give a bigger yield?", "What pH should I water my soil plants at?", "How often should I water cannabis in soil?", "Can I use hydro nutrients in soil?", "What size pot do I need?", "Why are my soil plants drooping when the soil is wet?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-harvest-cure-flush-debate", "kb-systems-living-soil", "kb-systems-coco", "kb-systems-bottom-watering-wick", "kb-systems-choosing-a-system", "kb-germination-transplanting" ], "sources_count": 5, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-systems-hpa-aeroponics", "title": "High-pressure aeroponics (HPA)", "category": "systems", "category_name": "Systems", "slug": "hpa-aeroponics", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/systems/hpa-aeroponics.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/systems/hpa-aeroponics.md", "summary": "HPA atomises nutrient solution at roughly 80–100 psi (5.5–7 bar) through fine nozzles into a root chamber, giving fine droplets (about 10–100 µm) and very high root oxygen. It can grow outstanding root systems but has the shortest failure margin of any system: roots can be damaged within tens of minutes if misting stops. It needs an accumulator, pressure monitoring, filtration, anti-drip nozzles and a backup plan.", "tags": [ "aeroponics", "hpa", "misting", "accumulator", "solenoid", "nozzles" ], "stage": [ "veg", "flower" ], "systems": [ "aero" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "advanced", "qa": [ "What pressure for high-pressure aeroponics?", "What mist cycle for HPA cannabis?", "Is HPA worth it over LPA or DWC?", "What happens if my HPA pump fails?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-systems-lpa-aeroponics", "kb-systems-fogponics", "kb-systems-choosing-a-system" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-systems-kratky", "title": "Kratky (passive, non-circulating hydroponics)", "category": "systems", "category_name": "Systems", "slug": "kratky", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/systems/kratky.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/systems/kratky.md", "summary": "Kratky is hydroponics with no pump: the plant sits above a container of nutrient solution, drinks it down, and the growing air gap gives the upper roots oxygen. It was developed and published for lettuce and tomatoes at the University of Hawaii. Cannabis can be grown this way, but its large water use means big containers, careful refills that keep the air gap, and close attention to water temperature and EC drift.", "tags": [ "kratky", "passive-hydroponics", "non-circulating", "beginner", "no-pump" ], "stage": [ "seedling", "veg", "flower" ], "systems": [ "dwc" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "Can you grow cannabis with the Kratky method?", "How big a Kratky container for cannabis?", "Should I refill a Kratky reservoir to the top?", "Why are my Kratky roots rotting?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-systems-dwc", "kb-systems-choosing-a-system", "kb-environment-temperature-by-stage" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-systems-living-soil", "title": "Living soil (no-till, water-only organic growing)", "category": "systems", "category_name": "Systems", "slug": "living-soil", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/systems/living-soil.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/systems/living-soil.md", "summary": "Living soil is a large, biologically active, amended organic soil that is reused without tilling and watered with plain dechlorinated water; soil organisms release nutrients. It is forgiving and low-input once established but slow to correct, so build it well, keep it moist and mulched, never use salt-based nutrients or sanitisers on it, and don't chase pH. Most of its claims are grower practice rather than tested in cannabis.", "tags": [ "living-soil", "no-till", "organic", "microbes", "compost", "mulch", "cover-crop" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "living_soil" ], "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "What is living soil and how is it different from regular soil?", "Do I need to pH water for living soil?", "How big a container for living soil?", "Can I use bottled nutrients in living soil?", "How do I fix a deficiency in living soil?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-harvest-cure-flush-debate", "kb-systems-soil", "kb-systems-bottom-watering-wick", "kb-systems-choosing-a-system", "kb-nutrients-organic-vs-mineral" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-systems-lpa-aeroponics", "title": "Low-pressure aeroponics (LPA)", "category": "systems", "category_name": "Systems", "slug": "lpa-aeroponics", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/systems/lpa-aeroponics.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/systems/lpa-aeroponics.md", "summary": "LPA uses an ordinary submersible pump and spray heads to drench roots hanging in a dark chamber with coarse droplets. It is essentially a spray-assisted hydro system: forgiving (a pool on the chamber floor keeps roots wet for hours), cheap, and easier than true high-pressure aeroponics. Run sprays continuously or on short cycles such as 1 minute on, 4 off, with a chamber humidity watchdog and solution at 18–22 °C.", "tags": [ "aeroponics", "lpa", "sprayers", "root-chamber", "hydroponics" ], "stage": [ "veg", "flower" ], "systems": [ "aero" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "What is low-pressure aeroponics?", "LPA vs HPA: which is better?", "What spray cycle for low-pressure aeroponics?", "Why do my aeroponic sprayers keep clogging?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-systems-hpa-aeroponics", "kb-systems-fogponics", "kb-systems-nft", "kb-systems-dwc", "kb-systems-choosing-a-system" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-systems-nft", "title": "Nutrient film technique (NFT)", "category": "systems", "category_name": "Systems", "slug": "nft", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/systems/nft.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/systems/nft.md", "summary": "In NFT a thin, continuous film of nutrient solution runs down sloped channels past bare roots. It is efficient and well proven for lettuce and herbs, but large cannabis root masses can dam the channel, and roots dry within one to three hours if the pump stops. Keep flow continuous (about 1–2 L/min per channel), slope about 1:30 to 1:100, and solution at 18–22 °C.", "tags": [ "nft", "hydroponics", "channels", "gullies", "recirculating", "root-mat" ], "stage": [ "veg", "flower" ], "systems": [ "nft" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "advanced", "qa": [ "Does NFT work for cannabis?", "What flow rate for an NFT channel?", "What slope should NFT gullies have?", "What happens if my NFT pump stops?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-systems-dwc", "kb-systems-rdwc", "kb-systems-lpa-aeroponics", "kb-systems-choosing-a-system" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-systems-rdwc", "title": "Recirculating deep water culture (RDWC)", "category": "systems", "category_name": "Systems", "slug": "rdwc", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/systems/rdwc.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/systems/rdwc.md", "summary": "RDWC links several DWC sites to a control bucket and circulates the solution with a pump, so one reservoir sets pH, EC and temperature for every plant and a single chiller cools the lot. It adds circulation and plumbing failure modes to DWC's oxygen and temperature risks. Targets match DWC: 18–22 °C, DO above 6 mg/L, pH 5.6–6.0.", "tags": [ "rdwc", "hydroponics", "recirculating", "control-bucket", "chiller", "dissolved-oxygen" ], "stage": [ "veg", "flower" ], "systems": [ "rdwc" ], "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "level": "advanced", "qa": [ "Should my reservoir be sterile or full of beneficial microbes?", "What is the difference between DWC and RDWC?", "How big should the RDWC control bucket be?", "How fast should the RDWC pump circulate?", "One plant in my RDWC has root rot; what now?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-systems-dwc", "kb-systems-nft", "kb-systems-choosing-a-system", "kb-environment-temperature-by-stage", "kb-diseases-root-rot-pythium" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-systems-recirculating-drip", "title": "Recirculating drip (top-feed, runoff returns)", "category": "systems", "category_name": "Systems", "slug": "recirculating-drip", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/systems/recirculating-drip.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/systems/recirculating-drip.md", "summary": "A pump pushes nutrient solution through drip emitters into pots of coco, rockwool or clay pebbles and the runoff returns to the reservoir. It saves water and nutrients but the reservoir slowly drifts as runoff brings back salts and root exudates, so monitor runoff and refresh when reservoir chemistry diverges. Typical shots are 2–6 % of pot volume, first shot 1–2 h after lights-on, none in the dark.", "tags": [ "drip", "top-feed", "recirculating", "emitters", "coco", "clay-pebbles", "runoff" ], "stage": [ "veg", "flower" ], "systems": [ "drip" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "How many drip emitters per plant?", "Should I recirculate drip runoff?", "How often should I change a recirculating reservoir?", "What shot size for drip irrigation in coco?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-harvest-cure-flush-debate", "kb-systems-drain-to-waste-crop-steering", "kb-systems-coco", "kb-systems-rockwool", "kb-systems-ebb-and-flow", "kb-systems-choosing-a-system" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-training-defoliation-lollipopping", "title": "Defoliation and lollipopping: what to remove, when, and the evidence", "category": "training", "category_name": "Training", "slug": "defoliation-lollipopping", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/training/defoliation-lollipopping.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/training/defoliation-lollipopping.md", "summary": "Lollipopping strips small branches and leaves from the shaded lower third at or near the flip; defoliation removes fan leaves that shade bud sites or block airflow. In a controlled study on large plants, neither defoliation three weeks before harvest nor lower-branch removal changed flower or cannabinoid yield per plant, and defoliation improved cannabinoid uniformity. Stripping within reason doesn't hurt yield, but in the founder's experience tucking helps more: tuck and train first. Whether tucking beats stripping, and whether defoliation raises cannabinoids, is an open GenetixBay trial question.", "tags": [ "defoliation", "lollipopping", "pruning", "leaf-removal", "airflow", "uniformity" ], "stage": [ "veg", "transition", "flower" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "Should I defoliate my cannabis plant?", "When should I lollipop?", "Does defoliation increase yield?", "How many leaves can I remove?", "What is the day 21 defoliation?", "Tuck or pluck fan leaves?", "Does defoliation increase THC or cannabinoids?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-training-scrog", "kb-training-sog", "kb-training-topping", "kb-environment-airflow", "kb-environment-humidity-by-stage", "kb-diseases-botrytis-bud-rot" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-training-fim", "title": "FIM: pinching most of the tip for multiple tops", "category": "training", "category_name": "Training", "slug": "fim", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/training/fim.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/training/fim.md", "summary": "FIM removes roughly 70–80 % of the newest growth at the tip instead of cutting cleanly above a node. When it works, three to five shoots grow from the same point; when it doesn't, you get one or two, like a sloppy top. It is less predictable than topping and has no controlled research behind its yield claims.", "tags": [ "fim", "pinching", "pruning", "apical-dominance", "colas" ], "stage": [ "veg" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "What is FIMing?", "FIM vs topping: which gives more colas?", "How much of the tip do I cut for FIM?", "Why did my FIM only grow one top?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-training-topping", "kb-training-lst", "kb-training-scrog" ], "sources_count": 2, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-training-hst-supercropping", "title": "HST and supercropping: controlled stem crushing", "category": "training", "category_name": "Training", "slug": "hst-supercropping", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/training/hst-supercropping.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/training/hst-supercropping.md", "summary": "Supercropping pinches and gently crushes a green stem until the inner tissue softens, then bends it over so the tip sits lower. It is used to tame tall shoots in late veg and early stretch. Done right the stem forms a firm knuckle in a few days. Stem snapping gives better buds in the founder's long experience: *Grower practice*, house-endorsed, though no controlled study has measured a potency gain yet. Every cultivar responds differently.", "tags": [ "hst", "supercropping", "high-stress-training", "stretch", "canopy-control" ], "stage": [ "veg", "transition" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "What is supercropping?", "When should I supercrop?", "Does supercropping increase THC?", "Does snapping stems give better buds?", "What do I do if I snap a branch?", "Is HST bad for autoflowers?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-training-lst", "kb-training-topping", "kb-training-scrog", "kb-environment-heat-light-stress" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-training-lst", "title": "LST: low-stress training", "category": "training", "category_name": "Training", "slug": "lst", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/training/lst.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/training/lst.md", "summary": "Low-stress training bends and ties stems outward and down so the plant grows as a flat, even canopy, without cutting anything. It is the safest training method, suits autoflowers, and works with topping and SCROG. Start in early veg, adjust ties every few days, and stop bending hard once stems lignify in mid-stretch.", "tags": [ "lst", "low-stress-training", "tie-down", "canopy", "autoflower" ], "stage": [ "veg", "transition" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "How do I LST a cannabis plant?", "When should I start low stress training?", "Is LST good for autoflowers?", "Can I LST in flower?", "What do I tie plants down with?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-training-defoliation-lollipopping", "kb-training-topping", "kb-training-scrog", "kb-training-hst-supercropping", "kb-training-mainlining-manifolding" ], "sources_count": 2, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-training-mainlining-manifolding", "title": "Mainlining and manifolding: building a symmetrical plant", "category": "training", "category_name": "Training", "slug": "mainlining-manifolding", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/training/mainlining-manifolding.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/training/mainlining-manifolding.md", "summary": "Mainlining (manifolding) tops a young plant down to the third node, removes all lower growth, and then tops each arm repeatedly to build a symmetrical hub feeding 8 or 16 evenly matched colas. It produces a very even canopy at the cost of 2–4 extra weeks of veg. It is grower practice with no controlled studies; the closest research found double pruning increased yield per plant.", "tags": [ "mainlining", "manifolding", "topping", "symmetry", "colas" ], "stage": [ "veg" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "level": "advanced", "qa": [ "What is mainlining cannabis?", "How long does mainlining add to veg?", "How many colas can I get from mainlining?", "Mainlining vs topping and LST?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-training-topping", "kb-training-lst", "kb-training-scrog", "kb-training-defoliation-lollipopping" ], "sources_count": 2, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-training-scrog", "title": "SCROG: screen of green", "category": "training", "category_name": "Training", "slug": "scrog", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/training/scrog.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/training/scrog.md", "summary": "SCROG uses a horizontal net 20–40 cm above the pots to spread a few plants into a flat, even canopy: shoots are tucked under the net through veg and early stretch, then allowed to grow up through it. It suits small rooms and plant-count limits, at the cost of longer veg. Fill about 70–80 % of the net before flipping, since plants stretch to fill the rest.", "tags": [ "scrog", "screen", "trellis", "net", "canopy", "low-plant-count" ], "stage": [ "veg", "transition", "flower" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "How does SCROG work?", "How high should the SCROG net be?", "When do I flip a SCROG to flower?", "SCROG vs SOG: which yields more?", "How many plants for a SCROG?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-training-lst", "kb-training-topping", "kb-training-sog", "kb-training-defoliation-lollipopping" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-training-sog", "title": "SOG: sea of green", "category": "training", "category_name": "Training", "slug": "sog", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/training/sog.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/training/sog.md", "summary": "Sea of green packs many small plants, usually clones, into the space and flowers them after little or no veg, so each plant makes one main cola. Higher planting density increases yield per square metre but lowers cannabinoid uniformity between plants, according to controlled research. Typical densities are 9–25 plants per m² with 0–14 days of veg; check local plant-count rules first.", "tags": [ "sog", "sea-of-green", "planting-density", "clones", "short-veg" ], "stage": [ "veg", "flower" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "What is sea of green?", "How many plants per square metre for SOG?", "How long to veg for SOG?", "Is SOG legal where I live?", "Does higher planting density increase yield?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-training-scrog", "kb-training-defoliation-lollipopping", "kb-systems-ebb-and-flow", "kb-systems-nft" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-training-topping", "title": "Topping: cutting the main tip for more colas", "category": "training", "category_name": "Training", "slug": "topping", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/training/topping.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/training/topping.md", "summary": "Topping removes the main growing tip above a node so the two shoots below take over, breaking apical dominance and producing a flatter plant with more main colas. Top healthy plants with 4–6 nodes, cut just above the chosen node, and allow 5–10 days of recovery before flipping to flower. In one controlled study, pruning twice (at transplant and at the switch to flower) gave the highest flower and cannabinoid yield per plant.", "tags": [ "topping", "pruning", "apical-dominance", "canopy", "colas" ], "stage": [ "veg" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "When should I top my cannabis plant?", "Where exactly do I cut when topping?", "Does topping increase yield?", "Can I top autoflowers?", "How many times can I top a plant?", "Topping vs FIM: which is better?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-training-fim", "kb-training-lst", "kb-training-mainlining-manifolding", "kb-training-scrog", "kb-training-defoliation-lollipopping" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-pests-aphids", "title": "Aphids on cannabis: species, life tables, population growth and IPM", "category": "pests", "category_name": "Pests", "slug": "aphids", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/pests/aphids.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/pests/aphids.md", "summary": "Three aphids matter on cannabis: the cannabis-only cannabis aphid (Phorodon cannabis), the green peach aphid (Myzus persicae) and the cotton/melon aphid (Aphis gossypii). All breed without mating and give live birth, with intrinsic rates of increase of about 0.25-0.53 per day at 25 C, so a colony doubles every 1.3-2.8 days. Identify the species, then release the matching parasitoid early; keep sprays out of flower.", "tags": [ "aphids", "cannabis-aphid", "phorodon-cannabis", "green-peach-aphid", "myzus-persicae", "cotton-aphid", "aphis-gossypii", "honeydew", "parthenogenesis", "life-table", "ipm", "parasitoids", "aphidius-colemani", "aphidoletes" ], "stage": [ "veg", "transition", "flower" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "How fast do aphids multiply on cannabis?", "Which aphids attack cannabis?", "What temperature do aphids like best?", "Which parasitic wasp should I use for aphids on cannabis?", "Does Aphidoletes work under 12/12 light?", "Why do aphids suddenly grow wings?", "Why are my cannabis leaves sticky and black?", "How often should I spray aphids with soap?", "Are aphids resistant to insecticides?", "Do aphids lay eggs indoors?" ], "myths": [ "Ladybugs from the garden centre will clean up indoor aphids", "Any Aphidius wasp kills any aphid", "Aphids lay eggs that hatch after you spray", "Running the room hot kills aphids", "Aphids spread hop latent viroid" ], "related": [ "kb-pests-cannabis-aphid", "kb-pests-root-aphids", "kb-pests-whiteflies", "kb-pests-temperature-humidity-and-pest-population-growth", "kb-pests-integrated-pest-management-program", "kb-diseases-hop-latent-viroid-and-viruses" ], "sources_count": 23, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-pests-broad-russet-mites", "title": "Broad mites on cannabis: life table, spread and control (plus russet mite summary)", "category": "pests", "category_name": "Pests", "slug": "broad-russet-mites", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/pests/broad-russet-mites.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/pests/broad-russet-mites.md", "summary": "Broad mites (Polyphagotarsonemus latus) twist, glaze and harden cannabis new growth. At 25 C a generation takes about 4.4 days from egg to adult and populations can double in about 2.2 days (grape-leaf lab data), so control rests on clean stock, quarantine, preventive predatory mites (Amblyseius swirskii, Neoseiulus cucumeris, N. californicus) and repeat treatments timed to the life cycle. Hemp russet mite has its own article.", "tags": [ "broad-mite", "polyphagotarsonemus-latus", "tarsonemid", "russet-mite", "aculops-cannabicola", "cyclamen-mite", "predatory-mites", "ipm", "life-table" ], "stage": [ "veg", "transition", "flower" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "Why are my new cannabis leaves twisted and shiny but my feed is fine?", "How fast do broad mites breed?", "Broad mites or calcium deficiency?", "How do broad mites spread between cannabis plants?", "When should I repeat a broad mite spray?", "Which predatory mites control broad mites?", "Does hot water kill broad mites on cuttings?", "What is the difference between broad mite and cyclamen mite?", "Can broad mites be controlled in flower?", "What are russet mites and are they the same as broad mites?" ], "myths": [ "You can check for broad mites with a 10x loupe", "Twisted new growth means calcium deficiency", "Broad mites only arrive on clones", "A hot-water dip cleans infested cannabis cuttings", "Dropping humidity will wipe out broad mites" ], "related": [ "kb-pests-hemp-russet-mite", "kb-pests-spider-mites", "kb-pests-whiteflies", "kb-pests-aphids", "kb-diagnosis-yellow-new-growth", "kb-diagnosis-how-to-diagnose-any-problem" ], "sources_count": 15, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-pests-budworms-corn-earworm", "title": "Budworms on cannabis: corn earworm and tobacco budworm in numbers", "category": "pests", "category_name": "Pests", "slug": "budworms-corn-earworm", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/pests/budworms-corn-earworm.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/pests/budworms-corn-earworm.md", "summary": "The 'budworm' that ruins outdoor cannabis colas in the US is mostly the corn earworm (Helicoverpa zea), with the tobacco budworm (Chloridea virescens) mixed in; both need about 422 Celsius degree-days above 12.6 C to go from egg to adult (about 34 days at 25 C), lay up to ~1,500 eggs per female singly on flowers, and open the door to bud rot, so growers trap moths from late July, scout buds weekly in flower and hit hatchlings with Bt within the first week after egg hatch.", "tags": [ "budworm", "corn-earworm", "helicoverpa-zea", "tobacco-budworm", "chloridea-virescens", "heliothis-virescens", "degree-days", "pheromone-traps", "bt", "bud-rot", "outdoor", "hemp" ], "stage": [ "transition", "flower", "ripen" ], "systems": [ "soil", "living_soil", "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "What is the budworm that eats cannabis buds?", "How long does a corn earworm take to develop?", "How many eggs does a corn earworm moth lay?", "When should I hang corn earworm pheromone traps for hemp?", "When is Bt most effective on budworms?", "Why do budworms cause bud rot?", "Is Bt resistance a problem in corn earworm?", "Is there a treatment threshold for corn earworm in hemp?", "Can I use sweet corn as a trap crop for budworms in hemp?", "Do budworms get into indoor and greenhouse cannabis?" ], "myths": [ "Bt kills any caterpillar in the bud", "One spray at the start of flower protects the crop", "Pheromone traps control budworms", "Budworms only hit hemp next to corn", "Corn earworm and tobacco budworm need different management on cannabis" ], "related": [ "kb-pests-caterpillars", "kb-diseases-botrytis-bud-rot", "kb-pests-integrated-pest-management-program", "kb-pests-temperature-humidity-and-pest-population-growth", "kb-diagnosis-how-to-diagnose-any-problem" ], "sources_count": 18, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-pests-cannabis-aphid", "title": "Cannabis aphid (Phorodon cannabis): ID, life table, overwintering and control", "category": "pests", "category_name": "Pests", "slug": "cannabis-aphid", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/pests/cannabis-aphid.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/pests/cannabis-aphid.md", "summary": "The cannabis aphid (Phorodon cannabis) develops only on Cannabis. It was first recognised as a pest in North America on Colorado hemp from 2015. On hemp at 25 C it starts breeding 6.4 days after birth, produces about 112 nymphs per female and doubles every 2 days (r_m 0.355/day), but it nearly stops growing at 30 C. Short days trigger males and egg-laying females outdoors and after the indoor flip. Quarantine clones; no parasitoid has been proven against it in peer-reviewed trials.", "tags": [ "cannabis-aphid", "phorodon-cannabis", "hemp-aphid", "bhang-aphid", "aphids", "honeydew", "life-table", "oviparae", "overwintering", "ipm", "parasitoids" ], "stage": [ "veg", "transition", "flower" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "What is the cannabis aphid?", "How fast does the cannabis aphid reproduce?", "Does heat kill cannabis aphids?", "How do I tell cannabis aphid from green peach aphid or hop aphid?", "Do cannabis aphids lay eggs indoors?", "How does the cannabis aphid survive winter?", "What parasitic wasp works on cannabis aphid?", "How do I get rid of cannabis aphids in a grow room?" ], "myths": [ "Cannabis aphids are just green peach aphids", "A clean room can be reinfested from weeds outside", "Aphidius colemani is proven against cannabis aphid", "Cannabis aphids only lay eggs outdoors" ], "related": [ "kb-pests-aphids", "kb-pests-root-aphids", "kb-pests-hemp-russet-mite", "kb-pests-temperature-humidity-and-pest-population-growth", "kb-pests-integrated-pest-management-program", "kb-diseases-hop-latent-viroid-and-viruses" ], "sources_count": 14, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-pests-caterpillars", "title": "Caterpillars on cannabis: species, degree-days and control", "category": "pests", "category_name": "Pests", "slug": "caterpillars", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/pests/caterpillars.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/pests/caterpillars.md", "summary": "Caterpillars on cannabis are mostly an outdoor, late-season problem: corn earworm budworms bore into colas and start bud rot, European corn borer and Eurasian hemp borer tunnel stems and buds, and armyworms and loopers chew leaves. Each species has a degree-day clock (lower thresholds about 10-14 C), so trap the moths, scout for eggs and hatchlings, exclude moths with netting, and use Bt or other biologicals on newly hatched larvae before they bore in.", "tags": [ "caterpillars", "budworm", "corn-earworm", "helicoverpa-zea", "european-corn-borer", "ostrinia-nubilalis", "hemp-borer", "grapholita-delineana", "beet-armyworm", "cabbage-looper", "bt", "trichogramma", "degree-days", "pheromone-traps", "bud-rot", "outdoor" ], "stage": [ "veg", "transition", "flower", "ripen" ], "systems": [ "soil", "living_soil", "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "What caterpillars attack cannabis?", "Why is there brown mush inside my cola?", "When is Bt most effective on caterpillars?", "What is a degree-day model for caterpillars?", "How fast do caterpillars develop on cannabis?", "When should I spray for European corn borer in hemp?", "Do Trichogramma wasps work on cannabis caterpillars?", "Do I need to spray loopers and armyworms on cannabis?", "Can netting keep caterpillars off cannabis?", "Is there a treatment threshold for caterpillars on hemp?" ], "myths": [ "Bt kills caterpillars on contact", "Caterpillars are only a problem outdoors", "Pheromone traps catch enough moths to control them", "Leaf holes in veg mean you will lose the harvest", "Burning or removing crop debris reduces hemp borer next year" ], "related": [ "kb-pests-budworms-corn-earworm", "kb-diseases-botrytis-bud-rot", "kb-diagnosis-how-to-diagnose-any-problem", "kb-pests-integrated-pest-management-program", "kb-pests-temperature-humidity-and-pest-population-growth", "kb-diseases-sanitation-and-prevention" ], "sources_count": 20, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-pests-fungus-gnats", "title": "Fungus gnats: the watering problem with wings", "category": "pests", "category_name": "Pests", "slug": "fungus-gnats", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/pests/fungus-gnats.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/pests/fungus-gnats.md", "summary": "Fungus gnats (Bradysia impatiens, B. coprophila) breed in constantly wet, organic, microbially active media. At about 25 C a generation takes roughly 17-22 days and the population can double about every 6 days (r_m 0.111/day). Larvae chew roots of seedlings and clones and can carry Pythium; adults do not. Dry the top of the medium, then use Bti, Steinernema feltiae, Stratiolaelaps scimitus or Dalotia coriaria, with yellow cards and potato slices to count.", "tags": [ "fungus-gnats", "bradysia", "bradysia-impatiens", "bradysia-coprophila", "overwatering", "substrate-moisture", "seedlings", "clones", "pythium", "fusarium", "bti", "steinernema-feltiae", "stratiolaelaps", "dalotia", "life-table" ], "stage": [ "seedling", "veg", "flower" ], "systems": [ "soil", "coco", "living_soil", "rockwool" ], "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "What are the little black flies in my grow?", "Are fungus gnats harmful to cannabis?", "How long is the fungus gnat life cycle?", "How fast do fungus gnats multiply?", "How do I get rid of fungus gnats in soil or coco?", "Do fungus gnats cause root rot?", "What temperature kills fungus gnats?", "Does Bti kill fungus gnat eggs and adults?", "When should I use nematodes versus predatory mites for fungus gnats?", "Does a layer of sand stop fungus gnats?" ], "myths": [ "A layer of sand or diatomaceous earth stops fungus gnats", "Adult fungus gnats spread Pythium root rot", "Fungus gnats always mean you are overwatering", "Hydrogen peroxide drenches cure fungus gnats", "Yellow sticky cards will wipe out fungus gnats" ], "related": [ "kb-pests-shore-flies", "kb-pests-root-aphids", "kb-pests-thrips", "kb-diagnosis-drooping-overwatering-vs-underwatering", "kb-diagnosis-slow-growth", "kb-diseases-root-rot-pythium" ], "sources_count": 23, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-pests-hemp-russet-mite", "title": "Hemp russet mite (Aculops cannabicola): life cycle, detection and control", "category": "pests", "category_name": "Pests", "slug": "hemp-russet-mite", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/pests/hemp-russet-mite.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/pests/hemp-russet-mite.md", "summary": "Hemp russet mite (Aculops cannabicola) is a 0.11-0.21 mm eriophyid mite that lives only on Cannabis, bronzes and curls leaves upward from the lower canopy and moves into buds. It is invisible below about 15-20x and needs about 55x to count. No life table exists for it; its relative the tomato russet mite completes egg-to-adult in 5.5 days at 25 C with an r_m of 0.286 per day. Clean stock and quarantine are the main defences; most growers treat it as zero tolerance in mothers and clones.", "tags": [ "hemp-russet-mite", "russet-mite", "aculops-cannabicola", "eriophyid", "tomato-russet-mite", "aculops-lycopersici", "clones", "quarantine", "predatory-mites", "ipm", "life-table" ], "stage": [ "veg", "transition", "flower" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "What is hemp russet mite?", "How do I know if I have russet mites?", "How fast do russet mites reproduce?", "How do russet mites get into a grow room?", "Why are russet mites zero tolerance for clones?", "Can you get rid of russet mites in flower?", "Do predatory mites work on russet mites?", "Does hot water kill russet mites on cuttings?", "Does humidity help or hurt russet mites?", "Is sulfur effective on hemp russet mite?" ], "myths": [ "You can see russet mites with a 10x loupe", "Russet mites come in on seeds", "Predatory mites will wipe out russet mites", "A hot-water or soap dip cleans an infested clone", "Russet mites survive on other plants in the room", "Russet mites like dry rooms" ], "related": [ "kb-pests-broad-russet-mites", "kb-pests-spider-mites", "kb-pests-two-spotted-vs-carmine-mite", "kb-diseases-sanitation-and-prevention", "kb-diagnosis-how-to-diagnose-any-problem", "kb-diseases-hop-latent-viroid-and-viruses" ], "sources_count": 15, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-pests-integrated-pest-management-program", "title": "Integrated pest management (IPM) for cannabis: a complete programme for home and small commercial growers", "category": "pests", "category_name": "Pests", "slug": "integrated-pest-management-program", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/pests/integrated-pest-management-program.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/pests/integrated-pest-management-program.md", "summary": "A cannabis IPM programme is a written routine: keep pests out (clean stock, a 14-21 day quarantine, clean-room-first workflow), find them early (weekly leaf and card scouting with set thresholds), act by life stage and temperature (predators first, contact tools only in veg, rotation by mode-of-action group), and record every count so the next run starts smarter.", "tags": [ "ipm", "integrated-pest-management", "quarantine", "scouting", "sticky-cards", "action-threshold", "biological-control", "record-keeping", "clones", "resistance-management" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "What is IPM for cannabis?", "How long should I quarantine new cannabis clones?", "How often should I scout my grow for pests?", "How many sticky cards do I need for a grow room?", "What is an action threshold for cannabis pests?", "Why does my spray schedule need to match room temperature?", "How do I stop pests becoming resistant to sprays?", "What is a clean-room-first workflow?", "When should I release predatory mites?", "What pest records should a grower keep?" ], "myths": [ "A preventive spray every week is IPM", "Clean clones from a dispensary or a friend don't need quarantine", "Bugs come from the soil or appear out of nowhere", "Sticky cards will catch your spider mites", "If you release predators you never need anything else" ], "related": [ "kb-pests-temperature-humidity-and-pest-population-growth", "kb-pests-spider-mites", "kb-pests-broad-russet-mites", "kb-pests-hemp-russet-mite", "kb-pests-thrips", "kb-pests-fungus-gnats" ], "sources_count": 8, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-pests-leafhoppers", "title": "Leafhoppers on cannabis: beet leafhopper, curly top and hopperburn", "category": "pests", "category_name": "Pests", "slug": "leafhoppers", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/pests/leafhoppers.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/pests/leafhoppers.md", "summary": "Leafhoppers matter on cannabis for one reason above all: the beet leafhopper (Circulifer tenellus) spreads beet curly top virus, which was found in 81% of symptomatic hemp samples in Colorado in 2019 and has no cure. Potato leafhopper causes hopperburn but is usually a minor pest. Protect young outdoor plants with barriers, control weed hosts, monitor with yellow sticky cards and rogue infected plants; insecticides cannot stop a virus transmitted within hours.", "tags": [ "leafhoppers", "beet-leafhopper", "circulifer-tenellus", "neoaliturus-tenellus", "beet-curly-top-virus", "bctv", "potato-leafhopper", "empoasca-fabae", "hopperburn", "sticky-cards", "outdoor", "hemp" ], "stage": [ "seedling", "veg", "transition", "flower" ], "systems": [ "soil", "living_soil", "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "Do leafhoppers hurt cannabis?", "What is beet curly top virus in cannabis?", "How fast does a beet leafhopper transmit curly top?", "How long does a beet leafhopper take to develop?", "How many eggs does a beet leafhopper lay?", "What is hopperburn on cannabis?", "How do I monitor leafhoppers in hemp?", "Can insecticides stop beet curly top in cannabis?", "Can I get curly top indoors from clones?", "When are leafhoppers active on outdoor hemp?" ], "myths": [ "Spraying leafhoppers prevents curly top", "Curly top only spreads by leafhoppers", "Hopperburn is a nutrient burn", "Beet leafhoppers breed in hemp fields", "Every leafhopper on the sticky card is a problem" ], "related": [ "kb-diseases-hop-latent-viroid-and-viruses", "kb-pests-integrated-pest-management-program", "kb-pests-temperature-humidity-and-pest-population-growth", "kb-diagnosis-how-to-diagnose-any-problem", "kb-pests-spider-mites" ], "sources_count": 20, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-pests-mealybugs", "title": "Mealybugs and root mealybugs on cannabis: ID, life cycle in numbers and IPM", "category": "pests", "category_name": "Pests", "slug": "mealybugs", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/pests/mealybugs.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/pests/mealybugs.md", "summary": "Mealybugs are occasional, slow-building pests of indoor cannabis, usually the citrus mealybug (Planococcus citri), sometimes the longtailed mealybug or root mealybugs (Rhizoecus). They are slow: about 4 weeks egg to adult at 25 °C and an r_m near 0.084/day (doubling in about 8 days, lab data on grapevine), with development failing at 35 °C. Wax shields them from contact sprays, ants farm them, and control rests on clean clones, ant control, and Cryptolaemus and Leptomastix released above about 20 °C.", "tags": [ "mealybugs", "citrus-mealybug", "planococcus-citri", "longtailed-mealybug", "pseudococcus-longispinus", "root-mealybug", "rhizoecus", "cryptolaemus", "leptomastix", "anagyrus", "ants", "ipm" ], "stage": [ "veg", "transition", "flower" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "What is the white cottony stuff on my cannabis stems?", "How fast do mealybugs reproduce on cannabis?", "What temperature do mealybugs like?", "Why don't sprays kill mealybugs?", "Do ants cause mealybugs?", "What is the best biological control for mealybugs?", "How long does Cryptolaemus take to control mealybugs?", "What are root mealybugs and how are they different from root aphids?", "Can I use rubbing alcohol on mealybugs on cannabis?", "How long should I keep treating mealybugs?" ], "myths": [ "Mealybugs are a fast pest like spider mites", "One spray of soap or oil wipes them out", "Leptomastix only attacks citrus mealybug", "Cryptolaemus works in any grow room", "Ants are harmless bystanders" ], "related": [ "kb-pests-root-aphids", "kb-pests-aphids", "kb-pests-whiteflies", "kb-pests-temperature-humidity-and-pest-population-growth", "kb-pests-integrated-pest-management-program", "kb-diseases-sanitation-and-prevention" ], "sources_count": 15, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-pests-root-aphids", "title": "Root aphids (rice root aphid) on indoor cannabis: ID, life cycle in numbers and IPM", "category": "pests", "category_name": "Pests", "slug": "root-aphids", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/pests/root-aphids.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/pests/root-aphids.md", "summary": "The 'root aphid' of indoor cannabis in North America is mainly the rice root aphid (Rhopalosiphum rufiabdominale). At 25 °C it doubles in about 1.6 days (r_m 0.432/day, lab data from Tsai and Liu 1998), it reproduces only asexually indoors, and winged alates spread it plant to plant. Control rests on clean clones, removing every root between runs, a plant-free gap, and fungal drenches; nematodes and soil predators are unproven.", "tags": [ "root-aphids", "rice-root-aphid", "rhopalosiphum-rufiabdominale", "roots", "slow-growth", "life-table", "alates", "sanitation", "ipm" ], "stage": [ "veg", "transition", "flower" ], "systems": [ "soil", "coco", "rockwool", "living_soil", "dwc", "rdwc" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "Why is my cannabis plant slowly yellowing and wilting when pH and EC are fine?", "What are the small bugs on my cannabis roots?", "How fast do root aphids multiply?", "How do root aphids get into an indoor grow?", "How do I get rid of root aphids in cannabis?", "Do beneficial nematodes kill root aphids?", "Root aphids or fungus gnats on my sticky cards?", "Is the white stuff on my cannabis roots root aphids, root mealybugs or perlite?", "How long should a grow room sit empty to kill root aphids?", "What temperature do root aphids like?" ], "myths": [ "Root aphids are the same pest as lettuce root aphids or phylloxera", "Beneficial nematodes control root aphids", "A week between runs is enough to starve root aphids", "Fungal drenches (Beauveria, Isaria) help against root aphids", "Root aphids are an outdoor hemp problem" ], "related": [ "kb-pests-aphids", "kb-pests-cannabis-aphid", "kb-pests-mealybugs", "kb-pests-fungus-gnats", "kb-pests-temperature-humidity-and-pest-population-growth", "kb-pests-integrated-pest-management-program" ], "sources_count": 11, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-pests-shore-flies", "title": "Shore flies: algae farmers in your propagation tray", "category": "pests", "category_name": "Pests", "slug": "shore-flies", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/pests/shore-flies.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/pests/shore-flies.md", "summary": "Shore flies (Scatella stagnalis, S. tenuicosta) breed in algae on wet media, rockwool, benches and floors. Larvae eat algae, not roots, but larvae and adults carry Pythium, Thielaviopsis, Fusarium and Verticillium in their gut and frass. At 25 C S. stagnalis goes egg to adult in 11.4 days and multiplies at r_m 0.263/day. Control is algae and puddle management first; Bti and soil mites do little, rove beetles and repeated nematode drenches help.", "tags": [ "shore-flies", "scatella", "scatella-stagnalis", "scatella-tenuicosta", "algae", "propagation", "rockwool", "hydro", "fungus-gnats", "pythium", "thielaviopsis", "dalotia", "life-table" ], "stage": [ "seedling", "veg", "flower" ], "systems": [ "rockwool", "coco", "soil", "living_soil", "ebb_flow", "drip", "nft" ], "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "What is the difference between shore flies and fungus gnats?", "Are shore flies harmful to cannabis?", "How long is the shore fly life cycle?", "How fast do shore flies multiply?", "Does Bti kill shore flies?", "How do I get rid of shore flies?", "Why do I have shore flies in my hydroponic or rockwool system?", "Do predatory mites control shore flies?", "Can nematodes control shore flies?" ], "myths": [ "Shore flies eat roots like fungus gnats", "Bti controls shore flies as well as fungus gnats", "Shore flies are only a cosmetic nuisance", "Spraying adults will clear shore flies" ], "related": [ "kb-pests-fungus-gnats", "kb-pests-root-aphids", "kb-diseases-root-rot-pythium", "kb-diseases-fusarium", "kb-diseases-sanitation-and-prevention", "kb-diagnosis-root-browning-hydro" ], "sources_count": 18, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-pests-slugs-and-snails", "title": "Slugs and snails: night shift on your seedlings", "category": "pests", "category_name": "Pests", "slug": "slugs-and-snails", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/pests/slugs-and-snails.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/pests/slugs-and-snails.md", "summary": "Slugs and snails, above all the gray field slug Deroceras reticulatum, chew smooth-edged holes in cannabis seedlings and young transplants at night in cool, wet weather. They lay clutches of about 10-40 eggs and do best near 17-20 C. Scout at night or under boards, protect seedlings with iron phosphate baits, copper barriers and traps, and remove hiding places.", "tags": [ "slugs", "snails", "deroceras-reticulatum", "gray-field-slug", "outdoor", "greenhouse", "seedlings", "iron-phosphate", "copper-barrier", "beer-trap" ], "stage": [ "seedling", "veg" ], "systems": [ "soil", "living_soil" ], "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "What is eating holes in my cannabis seedlings at night?", "When are slugs most active?", "How many eggs do slugs lay?", "Are iron phosphate slug baits safe around pets?", "Do beer traps work for slugs?", "Do copper barriers stop slugs?", "Why are seedlings most at risk from slugs?", "How long do slugs live and how many generations do they have?" ], "myths": [ "Salt is a good slug control", "Beer traps will clear a garden of slugs", "Iron phosphate baits are not effective because you never see dead slugs", "Copper tape always keeps slugs out" ], "related": [ "kb-pests-caterpillars", "kb-guides-pest-prevention-for-beginners", "kb-diagnosis-how-to-diagnose-any-problem", "kb-pests-integrated-pest-management-program" ], "sources_count": 6, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-pests-spider-mites", "title": "Spider mites on cannabis: life tables, ID and IPM", "category": "pests", "category_name": "Pests", "slug": "spider-mites", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/pests/spider-mites.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/pests/spider-mites.md", "summary": "The twospotted spider mite (Tetranychus urticae) causes pale stippling and, at high numbers, webbing on cannabis. In lab life tables its intrinsic rate of increase roughly doubles from about 0.16 per day at 20 °C to about 0.30 per day at 30 °C, so 10 females can become several thousand in three weeks in a warm room. Control rests on early scouting, cooler and less dry veg rooms, predatory mites released early, and contact sprays timed to the egg stage and kept out of flower.", "tags": [ "spider-mites", "twospotted-spider-mite", "tetranychus-urticae", "ipm", "predatory-mites", "phytoseiulus-persimilis", "neoseiulus-californicus", "webbing", "stippling", "life-table", "diapause", "acaricide-resistance" ], "stage": [ "veg", "transition", "flower" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "What are the tiny dots on my cannabis leaves?", "How fast do spider mites reproduce at different temperatures?", "How many spider mites will I have in three weeks?", "What temperature stops spider mites?", "Does humidity help control spider mites?", "How often should I spray for spider mites?", "Which predatory mite should I use for spider mites?", "How many predatory mites do I need for spider mites?", "Why are some spider mites orange or red?", "Why do spider mites become resistant to miticides so quickly?", "How do spider mites spread between plants and rooms?" ], "myths": [ "Spider mites cannot survive high humidity", "A weekly spray matches the spider mite life cycle", "Red or orange mites are always predators", "Spider mites love heat", "Phytoseiulus persimilis works in any grow room" ], "related": [ "kb-pests-two-spotted-vs-carmine-mite", "kb-pests-broad-russet-mites", "kb-pests-hemp-russet-mite", "kb-pests-thrips", "kb-pests-integrated-pest-management-program", "kb-pests-temperature-humidity-and-pest-population-growth" ], "sources_count": 24, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-pests-temperature-humidity-and-pest-population-growth", "title": "Temperature, humidity and pest population growth in cannabis: every major pest compared", "category": "pests", "category_name": "Pests", "slug": "temperature-humidity-and-pest-population-growth", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/pests/temperature-humidity-and-pest-population-growth.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/pests/temperature-humidity-and-pest-population-growth.md", "summary": "Room temperature is the single biggest lever on how fast cannabis pests multiply: between about 20 and 30 C, most mites, aphids and thrips double every 2-4 days in lab life tables, while mealybugs and fungus gnats double every 6-8 days. Humidity matters mostly through the predators and pathogens that control pests, so set-points should be chosen for the beneficials as much as against the pest.", "tags": [ "temperature", "humidity", "life-table", "intrinsic-rate-of-increase", "degree-days", "developmental-threshold", "doubling-time", "predatory-mites", "biological-control", "vpd", "ipm" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "advanced", "qa": [ "Which cannabis pest multiplies fastest?", "How much faster do spider mites grow at 30 C than at 20 C?", "Does lowering the temperature stop pests in a grow room?", "Why does heat sometimes reduce pest numbers?", "Does high humidity kill spider mites?", "What humidity do predatory mites need?", "What is a degree-day and how do I use it indoors?", "Do short days in flower affect pests and beneficials?", "Why should spray intervals change with temperature?", "Which predators work best in hot, dry cannabis rooms?" ], "myths": [ "Mites die in winter", "Just raise humidity to beat spider mites", "Hotter is always worse for every pest", "A weekly spray schedule works for every room", "Cold rooms stop pests" ], "related": [ "kb-pests-integrated-pest-management-program", "kb-pests-spider-mites", "kb-pests-two-spotted-vs-carmine-mite", "kb-pests-broad-russet-mites", "kb-pests-hemp-russet-mite", "kb-pests-thrips" ], "sources_count": 28, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-pests-thrips", "title": "Thrips on cannabis: life table, temperature, scouting and biological control", "category": "pests", "category_name": "Pests", "slug": "thrips", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/pests/thrips.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/pests/thrips.md", "summary": "Thrips rasp leaf cells and leave silvery scars dotted with black fecal specks. Western flower thrips needs about 268 degree-days above 7.9 °C per generation (about 16 days at 25 °C) and can grow by r = 0.12-0.23 per day. Eggs sit inside leaf tissue and most pupae sit in the medium, so control has two levels: predators that eat larvae on the foliage, and soil predators or nematodes for the pupae, all set up in veg.", "tags": [ "thrips", "western-flower-thrips", "frankliniella-occidentalis", "onion-thrips", "thrips-tabaci", "echinothrips", "life-table", "ipm", "predatory-mites", "orius", "stratiolaelaps", "sticky-cards", "resistance" ], "stage": [ "veg", "transition", "flower" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "What are the silver streaks with black dots on my cannabis leaves?", "How long is the thrips life cycle at grow-room temperatures?", "How fast do thrips multiply?", "How do I get rid of thrips on cannabis?", "Why do thrips keep coming back after I spray?", "Do Orius pirate bugs work in flower under 12/12?", "Blue or yellow sticky cards for thrips?", "Which predatory mite should I use for thrips?", "Are thrips dangerous to cannabis?", "Can a cool room stop thrips?" ], "myths": [ "Sticky cards will control thrips", "Weekly leaf sprays will wipe out thrips", "Thrips will give my cannabis a virus", "Minute pirate bugs work just as well in flower", "A cold room kills thrips", "Predatory mites can rescue a heavy infestation" ], "related": [ "kb-pests-spider-mites", "kb-pests-fungus-gnats", "kb-pests-whiteflies", "kb-pests-broad-russet-mites", "kb-pests-temperature-humidity-and-pest-population-growth", "kb-pests-integrated-pest-management-program" ], "sources_count": 16, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-pests-two-spotted-vs-carmine-mite", "title": "Two-spotted vs carmine spider mite: one species or two, and does it matter?", "category": "pests", "category_name": "Pests", "slug": "two-spotted-vs-carmine-mite", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/pests/two-spotted-vs-carmine-mite.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/pests/two-spotted-vs-carmine-mite.md", "summary": "The carmine spider mite (Tetranychus cinnabarinus) is now usually treated as the red form of the twospotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae, because red and green mites interbreed, overlap in every morphological character and do not separate in DNA studies. Some researchers still use the old name. For a cannabis grower the colour form changes almost nothing: the same predators, the same humidity and temperature logic and the same acaricide rotation apply; resistance depends on a population's spray history, not its colour.", "tags": [ "spider-mites", "twospotted-spider-mite", "carmine-spider-mite", "tetranychus-urticae", "tetranychus-cinnabarinus", "red-form", "green-form", "tetranychus-turkestani", "tetranychus-pacificus", "taxonomy", "diapause" ], "stage": [ "veg", "transition", "flower" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "What is the difference between two-spotted and carmine spider mites?", "Is Tetranychus cinnabarinus the same as Tetranychus urticae?", "How do I tell red and green spider mites apart?", "Are orange spider mites the carmine mite?", "Is the red spider mite harder to kill?", "Does the carmine mite tolerate heat better?", "Do red spider mites go dormant in winter?", "What other spider mites attack cannabis or hemp?", "How do strawberry and Pacific spider mites compare with twospotted mites?" ], "myths": [ "Red spider mites are a different, tougher species", "You can tell the species by colour alone", "Orange spider mites are the carmine mite", "Red forms never go dormant", "Green and red spider mites need different control" ], "related": [ "kb-pests-spider-mites", "kb-pests-broad-russet-mites", "kb-pests-hemp-russet-mite", "kb-pests-integrated-pest-management-program", "kb-pests-temperature-humidity-and-pest-population-growth", "kb-diagnosis-how-to-diagnose-any-problem" ], "sources_count": 13, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-pests-whiteflies", "title": "Whiteflies on cannabis: life table, temperature, parasitoids and IPM", "category": "pests", "category_name": "Pests", "slug": "whiteflies", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/pests/whiteflies.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/pests/whiteflies.md", "summary": "Whiteflies are tiny white moth-like sap feeders that rise in a cloud when you shake a plant; nymphs sit flat under leaves and drip honeydew. Greenhouse whitefly needs about 381 degree-days above 8.3 °C per generation (about 23 days at 25 °C) and prefers moderate rooms; silverleaf whitefly grows fastest at 25-27 °C (r about 0.19 per day). Identify the species, monitor with yellow cards, and release Encarsia formosa (greenhouse whitefly, rooms above about 18-20 °C) or Eretmocerus (silverleaf, warm rooms) plus A. swirskii early in veg, keeping sprays out of flower.", "tags": [ "whiteflies", "greenhouse-whitefly", "trialeurodes-vaporariorum", "silverleaf-whitefly", "bemisia-tabaci", "life-table", "honeydew", "encarsia", "eretmocerus", "delphastus", "amblyseius-swirskii", "ipm" ], "stage": [ "veg", "transition", "flower" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "What are the tiny white flies on my cannabis?", "How long is the whitefly life cycle?", "How fast do whiteflies multiply?", "How do I get rid of whiteflies indoors?", "Encarsia or Eretmocerus for whiteflies?", "Why does Encarsia fail in a cool room?", "Why are my cannabis leaves sticky with black mould?", "Greenhouse whitefly or silverleaf whitefly: how do I tell?", "How often should I spray whiteflies?", "Do whiteflies spread broad mites?" ], "myths": [ "Yellow cards will control whiteflies", "Encarsia works on any whitefly", "Whiteflies love heat, so cool the room", "One spray clears whiteflies", "Whiteflies only make honeydew, they are harmless" ], "related": [ "kb-pests-aphids", "kb-pests-broad-russet-mites", "kb-pests-thrips", "kb-pests-spider-mites", "kb-pests-temperature-humidity-and-pest-population-growth", "kb-pests-integrated-pest-management-program" ], "sources_count": 11, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-diseases-botrytis-bud-rot", "title": "Botrytis (bud rot / grey mould) in cannabis", "category": "diseases", "category_name": "Diseases", "slug": "botrytis-bud-rot", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diseases/botrytis-bud-rot.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diseases/botrytis-bud-rot.md", "summary": "Bud rot is Botrytis cinerea rotting dense colas from the inside, favoured by cool-to-moderate temperatures (10–27 °C, optimum near 20 °C), high humidity and free water on tissue. There is no cure in flower: prevent it with RH below about 50 % in late flower, dew-point control at lights-off, airflow, open canopies and fast removal of infected buds.", "tags": [ "botrytis", "bud-rot", "grey-mould", "gray-mold", "flower", "humidity", "dew-point", "ipm" ], "stage": [ "flower", "ripen", "harvest", "cure" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "What does bud rot look like on cannabis?", "Why are my cannabis buds turning brown inside?", "How do I stop bud rot spreading on cannabis?", "What humidity prevents bud rot in cannabis?", "Can I save cannabis buds with botrytis?", "Is it safe to smoke cannabis buds with bud rot?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-diseases-powdery-mildew", "kb-diseases-fusarium", "kb-diseases-sanitation-and-prevention", "kb-pests-caterpillars", "kb-diagnosis-how-to-diagnose-any-problem" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-diseases-fusarium", "title": "Fusarium in cannabis: wilt, crown rot and bud rot", "category": "diseases", "category_name": "Diseases", "slug": "fusarium", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diseases/fusarium.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diseases/fusarium.md", "summary": "Fusarium fungi cause three different problems in cannabis: vascular wilt (F. oxysporum), root and crown rot (mainly F. solani), and a pinkish-white bud rot. There is no cure once a plant is infected; remove it, stop root-zone stress, sanitise pots and water, and source clean clones and media.", "tags": [ "fusarium", "wilt", "crown-rot", "root-rot", "bud-rot", "soil-borne", "sanitation", "vascular" ], "stage": [ "seedling", "veg", "flower" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "Why is my cannabis plant wilting on one side?", "What does Fusarium look like in cannabis?", "Why is the inside of my cannabis stem brown?", "Is Fusarium wilt in cannabis curable?", "How can I tell Fusarium from Pythium in cannabis?", "What causes pink mould on cannabis buds?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-diseases-root-rot-pythium", "kb-diseases-botrytis-bud-rot", "kb-diseases-sanitation-and-prevention", "kb-diagnosis-drooping-overwatering-vs-underwatering", "kb-diagnosis-yellowing-lower-leaves", "kb-pests-fungus-gnats" ], "sources_count": 8, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-diseases-hop-latent-viroid-and-viruses", "title": "Hop latent viroid (HLVd, 'dudding') and other cannabis viruses", "category": "diseases", "category_name": "Diseases", "slug": "hop-latent-viroid-and-viruses", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diseases/hop-latent-viroid-and-viruses.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diseases/hop-latent-viroid-and-viruses.md", "summary": "Hop latent viroid is a tiny infectious RNA that spreads through sap on tools, hands, clones, recirculating water and seed, and causes 'dudding': stunting, brittle stems and small, low-resin flowers. There is no cure in a plant. Test mothers (roots and leaves) by RT-PCR/RT-qPCR, discard positives, disinfect tools with bleach or heat (not alcohol), and use meristem tissue culture to rescue valuable genetics.", "tags": [ "hlvd", "hop-latent-viroid", "viroid", "dudding", "virus", "beet-curly-top", "lettuce-chlorosis-virus", "testing", "tissue-culture", "mother-plants" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "Is cannabis clone decline real or is it HLVd?", "What is hop latent viroid in cannabis?", "What are the symptoms of HLVd or dudding in cannabis?", "How does HLVd spread between cannabis plants?", "Does alcohol kill hop latent viroid on tools?", "How do I test my cannabis mother plants for HLVd?", "Can you cure HLVd in cannabis?", "Can HLVd spread through cannabis seeds?", "What viruses infect cannabis?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-breeding-clone-only-preservation", "kb-diseases-sanitation-and-prevention", "kb-diseases-root-rot-pythium", "kb-diagnosis-slow-growth", "kb-diagnosis-how-to-diagnose-any-problem", "kb-pests-whiteflies" ], "sources_count": 8, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-diseases-powdery-mildew", "title": "Powdery mildew in cannabis", "category": "diseases", "category_name": "Diseases", "slug": "powdery-mildew", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diseases/powdery-mildew.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diseases/powdery-mildew.md", "summary": "Powdery mildew is a leaf-surface fungus (mainly Golovinomyces ambrosiae) that thrives in still, humid, moderate-temperature canopies and spreads by airborne spores. Prevent it with airflow, stable humidity, clean clones and resistant genetics; treat early in veg with least-toxic contact options, because once it reaches flowers there is no clean fix.", "tags": [ "powdery-mildew", "golovinomyces", "fungus", "foliar", "ipm", "humidity", "airflow", "resistance" ], "stage": [ "veg", "transition", "flower" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "What is the white powder on my cannabis leaves?", "How do I get rid of powdery mildew on cannabis?", "Can I spray for powdery mildew in cannabis flower?", "Is powdery mildew systemic in cannabis?", "What humidity causes powdery mildew on cannabis?", "Are there powdery mildew resistant cannabis strains?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-diagnosis-white-powder-on-leaves", "kb-diseases-botrytis-bud-rot", "kb-diseases-sanitation-and-prevention", "kb-diagnosis-how-to-diagnose-any-problem" ], "sources_count": 6, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-diseases-root-rot-pythium", "title": "Root rot and Pythium in cannabis", "category": "diseases", "category_name": "Diseases", "slug": "root-rot-pythium", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diseases/root-rot-pythium.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diseases/root-rot-pythium.md", "summary": "Pythium root rot is a water mould that thrives in warm, low-oxygen root zones and swims between plants in recirculating water. Brown, slimy roots whose outer layer slides off, plus wilting with a wet root zone, are the signature. Fix the root-zone conditions first: solution at about 18–21 °C (65–70 °F), high dissolved oxygen, clean water and no overwatering; then remove dead roots and re-establish beneficial microbes.", "tags": [ "root-rot", "pythium", "hydroponics", "dwc", "rdwc", "coco", "dissolved-oxygen", "water-temperature", "oomycete" ], "stage": [ "seedling", "veg", "flower" ], "systems": [ "dwc", "rdwc", "nft", "ebb_flow", "drip", "aero", "coco", "rockwool", "soil" ], "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "Why are my DWC cannabis roots brown and slimy?", "What water temperature prevents Pythium root rot?", "How do I treat Pythium in cannabis hydroponics?", "Is brown root colour from nutrients or root rot?", "Can I use hydrogen peroxide for cannabis root rot?", "Should a cannabis hydro reservoir use beneficial microbes or be sterile?", "Why is my cannabis plant wilting when the soil is wet?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-diagnosis-root-browning-hydro", "kb-diagnosis-drooping-overwatering-vs-underwatering", "kb-diseases-fusarium", "kb-diseases-hop-latent-viroid-and-viruses", "kb-diseases-sanitation-and-prevention", "kb-pests-fungus-gnats" ], "sources_count": 6, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-diseases-sanitation-and-prevention", "title": "Sanitation and disease prevention for cannabis grows", "category": "diseases", "category_name": "Diseases", "slug": "sanitation-and-prevention", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diseases/sanitation-and-prevention.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diseases/sanitation-and-prevention.md", "summary": "Most cannabis disease problems are brought in on clones, tools, hands, media or water, and then helped along by humid, stagnant rooms. Quarantine and test incoming plants, work clean-to-dirty, clean then disinfect with the right chemical class for the pathogen (bleach or hypochlorous acid or heat for viroids; alcohol and peroxide do not inactivate HLVd), treat recirculating water, and keep the climate out of the disease zone.", "tags": [ "sanitation", "prevention", "quarantine", "disinfectant", "bleach", "hypochlorous-acid", "hlvd", "clean-room", "water-treatment", "ipm" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "How do I sterilise my cannabis grow room between cycles?", "What kills hop latent viroid on scissors?", "How long should I quarantine new cannabis clones?", "Which is better for cleaning grow tools, bleach, hydrogen peroxide or alcohol?", "How do I prevent powdery mildew and bud rot in a cannabis grow?", "Is it safe to mix bleach with other cleaners in a grow room?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-diseases-hop-latent-viroid-and-viruses", "kb-diseases-powdery-mildew", "kb-diseases-botrytis-bud-rot", "kb-diseases-root-rot-pythium", "kb-diseases-fusarium", "kb-diseases-septoria-leaf-spot" ], "sources_count": 9, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-diseases-septoria-leaf-spot", "title": "Septoria leaf spot (yellow leaf spot) in cannabis", "category": "diseases", "category_name": "Diseases", "slug": "septoria-leaf-spot", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diseases/septoria-leaf-spot.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diseases/septoria-leaf-spot.md", "summary": "Septoria leaf spot (Septoria cannabis) starts as small brown spots with bright yellow halos on lower, older leaves and climbs the plant in wet, humid weather by rain and water splash. It is mainly an outdoor and greenhouse problem; manage it with clean lower canopies, dry foliage, mulch, airflow and debris removal, and protectants only where registered.", "tags": [ "septoria", "leaf-spot", "yellow-leaf-spot", "fungus", "outdoor", "rain-splash", "lower-leaves" ], "stage": [ "veg", "flower" ], "systems": [ "soil", "living_soil", "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "What causes brown spots with yellow halos on lower cannabis leaves?", "What is septoria leaf spot on cannabis?", "Is it leaf spot disease or a nutrient deficiency on my cannabis?", "How do I stop leaf spot spreading up my cannabis plant?", "Does septoria affect cannabis buds or yield?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-diagnosis-rust-spots", "kb-diagnosis-yellowing-lower-leaves", "kb-diseases-sanitation-and-prevention", "kb-diseases-powdery-mildew", "kb-diagnosis-how-to-diagnose-any-problem" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-diagnosis-brown-burnt-tips", "title": "Brown or burnt leaf tips on cannabis: a differential", "category": "diagnosis", "category_name": "Diagnosis", "slug": "brown-burnt-tips", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diagnosis/brown-burnt-tips.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diagnosis/brown-burnt-tips.md", "summary": "Crispy brown tips on otherwise healthy leaves usually mean too much salt in the root zone (EC too high, or salts building up because of low runoff or drying out), not a deficiency. Check runoff or reservoir EC against input first, then watering rhythm, then heat and low humidity, and only then K or B disorders.", "tags": [ "tip-burn", "nutrient-burn", "ec", "salts", "potassium", "boron", "heat", "low-humidity" ], "stage": [ "seedling", "veg", "flower" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "Why are the tips of my cannabis leaves brown and crispy?", "Is brown tip burn on cannabis nutrient burn?", "Why do cannabis seedlings get burnt tips?", "How does high EC cause tip burn on cannabis?", "What is the difference between brown leaf edges and brown tips on cannabis?", "How do I flush salt build-up from cannabis pots?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-harvest-cure-flush-debate", "kb-ph-ec-runoff-testing", "kb-diagnosis-how-to-diagnose-any-problem", "kb-diagnosis-clawing-leaves", "kb-diagnosis-yellowing-lower-leaves", "kb-diagnosis-rust-spots" ], "sources_count": 5, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-diagnosis-root-browning-hydro", "title": "Brown roots in hydroponics (DWC, RDWC, NFT): a differential", "category": "diagnosis", "category_name": "Diagnosis", "slug": "root-browning-hydro", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diagnosis/root-browning-hydro.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diagnosis/root-browning-hydro.md", "summary": "Healthy hydro roots are white to cream and firm. Brown roots that are still firm and odourless are often just stained by nutrients or additives; brown, slimy, smelly roots whose outer layer slips off are root rot, usually Pythium, favoured by warm, oxygen-poor solution. Check solution temperature and dissolved oxygen first, then root texture and smell.", "tags": [ "root-rot", "pythium", "fusarium", "dwc", "rdwc", "dissolved-oxygen", "solution-temperature", "staining", "hlvd" ], "stage": [ "seedling", "veg", "flower" ], "systems": [ "dwc", "rdwc", "nft", "ebb_flow", "aero" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "Why are my DWC roots turning brown?", "What causes brown slimy roots in cannabis hydroponics?", "How can I tell root rot from stained roots in hydro?", "What water temperature prevents root rot in cannabis hydro?", "Why does my hydro reservoir smell and my cannabis plants wilt?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-diagnosis-how-to-diagnose-any-problem", "kb-diagnosis-drooping-overwatering-vs-underwatering", "kb-diagnosis-yellowing-lower-leaves", "kb-diagnosis-slow-growth", "kb-diseases-root-rot-pythium", "kb-diseases-fusarium" ], "sources_count": 6, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-diagnosis-bud-problems-decision-tree", "title": "Cannabis bud problems: the master decision tree", "category": "diagnosis", "category_name": "Diagnosis", "slug": "bud-problems-decision-tree", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diagnosis/bud-problems-decision-tree.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diagnosis/bud-problems-decision-tree.md", "summary": "Check buds for rot first: a brown, dead sugar leaf in a healthy cola, or grey fuzz inside, is Botrytis and needs the bud cut out today. Then look for white powder (powdery mildew), bananas or seeds (a hermaphrodite: a genetic defect, never normal), frass and holes (caterpillars), white or bleached tops (too much light), foxtails, and loose, airy buds (usually too little light at the bud site). Most bud problems are decided by where on the plant they appear and what the canopy climate was.", "tags": [ "buds", "bud-rot", "botrytis", "powdery-mildew", "foxtails", "hermaphrodites", "nanners", "seeds", "airy-buds", "larf", "pistils", "light-bleaching", "caterpillars", "decision-tree" ], "stage": [ "flower", "ripen", "harvest" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "Why does my cannabis bud have a brown dead leaf sticking out?", "Are bananas in late flower normal?", "Why are the top buds on my cannabis turning white?", "Why are my cannabis buds airy and loose?", "Why are there seeds in my cannabis buds with no males around?", "Why are my pistils turning brown early?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-diseases-botrytis-bud-rot", "kb-diseases-powdery-mildew", "kb-diagnosis-hermaphrodites", "kb-diagnosis-foxtails", "kb-pests-caterpillars", "kb-harvest-cure-trichome-ripeness" ], "sources_count": 10, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-diagnosis-lookalikes", "title": "Cannabis lookalike problems: how to tell them apart", "category": "diagnosis", "category_name": "Diagnosis", "slug": "lookalikes", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diagnosis/lookalikes.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diagnosis/lookalikes.md", "summary": "Many cannabis problems look alike in a photo. The ones growers confuse most are Ca vs Mg vs K, nitrogen toxicity vs overwatering claw, light bleaching vs Mg deficiency, spider-mite stippling vs calcium spots, heat vs light stress, Pythium vs low dissolved oxygen, Fe vs Mn, and nutrient burn vs K deficiency. Each pair separates on three things: where on the plant it started, the exact pattern, and one cheap test (a lens, a runoff EC reading, a root check, a light meter or a lifted pot).", "tags": [ "diagnosis", "differential", "lookalikes", "calcium", "magnesium", "potassium", "iron", "manganese", "nitrogen", "overwatering", "light-bleaching", "spider-mites", "heat-stress", "pythium", "dissolved-oxygen", "nutrient-burn" ], "stage": [ "seedling", "veg", "flower", "ripen" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "How do I tell calcium, magnesium and potassium deficiency apart in cannabis?", "Is my cannabis clawing from too much nitrogen or overwatering?", "Is it light bleaching or magnesium deficiency on my cannabis?", "Are these tiny spots from spider mites or calcium deficiency?", "How do I tell Pythium root rot from low dissolved oxygen in hydro?", "Is it iron or manganese deficiency on my cannabis?", "Is brown leaf edge nutrient burn or potassium deficiency?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-diagnosis-how-to-diagnose-any-problem", "kb-diagnosis-how-to-describe-your-plants-problem", "kb-diagnosis-yellowing-decision-tree", "kb-diagnosis-spots-necrosis-decision-tree", "kb-diagnosis-curling-clawing-decision-tree", "kb-diagnosis-drooping-wilting-decision-tree" ], "sources_count": 16, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-diagnosis-root-problems-decision-tree", "title": "Cannabis root problems: the master decision tree", "category": "diagnosis", "category_name": "Diagnosis", "slug": "root-problems-decision-tree", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diagnosis/root-problems-decision-tree.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diagnosis/root-problems-decision-tree.md", "summary": "Healthy cannabis roots are white to cream, firm and smell earthy or of nothing. Brown, slimy roots whose outer skin slides off and smell rotten are root rot (usually Pythium), driven by warm, oxygen-poor water or waterlogged media. Firm, odourless tan roots are usually stained, not sick. Check solution temperature (target 18–21 °C) and dissolved oxygen first, then texture and smell, then insects. Root problems show above ground as drooping with a wet root zone, yellowing and stunting.", "tags": [ "roots", "root-rot", "pythium", "fusarium", "dissolved-oxygen", "reservoir-temperature", "root-bound", "root-aphids", "fungus-gnats", "overwatering", "salt-burn", "hpa", "decision-tree" ], "stage": [ "seedling", "veg", "flower" ], "systems": [ "soil", "coco", "rockwool", "dwc", "rdwc", "nft", "ebb_flow", "drip", "aero", "living_soil" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "What do healthy cannabis roots look like?", "Why are my cannabis roots brown and slimy?", "How warm is too warm for a cannabis reservoir?", "How do I know if my cannabis is root-bound?", "Can a cannabis plant recover from root rot?", "What happens if my aeroponic pump fails?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-diagnosis-root-browning-hydro", "kb-diseases-root-rot-pythium", "kb-diseases-fusarium", "kb-pests-root-aphids", "kb-pests-fungus-gnats", "kb-diagnosis-drooping-overwatering-vs-underwatering" ], "sources_count": 11, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-diagnosis-clawing-leaves", "title": "Clawing leaves on cannabis: a differential", "category": "diagnosis", "category_name": "Diagnosis", "slug": "clawing-leaves", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diagnosis/clawing-leaves.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diagnosis/clawing-leaves.md", "summary": "Leaves that curl down at the tips like a talon, especially if dark green and glossy, most often mean excess nitrogen and high EC, or a waterlogged, oxygen-starved root zone. Check watering and runoff EC first; distorted, crinkled clawing on new growth instead points to broad mites, calcium/boron problems or a viroid.", "tags": [ "claw", "nitrogen-toxicity", "overwatering", "ec", "root-zone", "heat", "broad-mites" ], "stage": [ "veg", "transition", "flower" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "Why are my cannabis leaves clawing down?", "Why are dark green cannabis leaves curling down at the tips?", "Is the claw always nitrogen toxicity in cannabis?", "What makes cannabis leaves point down like eagle talons?", "Why do cannabis leaves claw after a transplant?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-diagnosis-how-to-diagnose-any-problem", "kb-diagnosis-brown-burnt-tips", "kb-diagnosis-drooping-overwatering-vs-underwatering", "kb-diagnosis-taco-canoeing-leaves", "kb-pests-broad-russet-mites", "kb-diseases-hop-latent-viroid-and-viruses" ], "sources_count": 5, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-diagnosis-drooping-overwatering-vs-underwatering", "title": "Drooping cannabis: overwatering vs underwatering", "category": "diagnosis", "category_name": "Diagnosis", "slug": "drooping-overwatering-vs-underwatering", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diagnosis/drooping-overwatering-vs-underwatering.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diagnosis/drooping-overwatering-vs-underwatering.md", "summary": "Lift the pot: a heavy pot with firm, swollen-looking drooping leaves is overwatered (roots short of oxygen); a light pot with limp, papery leaves is underwatered. If the medium is moist and the plant still wilts, especially one plant at a time or in hydro, suspect root rot or vascular wilt and look at the roots.", "tags": [ "drooping", "wilting", "overwatering", "underwatering", "root-zone", "oxygen", "root-rot", "fusarium" ], "stage": [ "seedling", "veg", "flower" ], "systems": [ "soil", "coco", "rockwool", "dwc", "rdwc", "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "Is my cannabis overwatered or underwatered?", "Why is my cannabis plant drooping after watering?", "Why are cannabis leaves drooping when the soil is wet?", "How often should I water cannabis in fabric pots?", "Why is my cannabis plant wilting in DWC?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-diagnosis-how-to-diagnose-any-problem", "kb-diagnosis-root-browning-hydro", "kb-diagnosis-yellowing-lower-leaves", "kb-diagnosis-clawing-leaves", "kb-diseases-root-rot-pythium", "kb-diseases-fusarium" ], "sources_count": 6, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-diagnosis-foxtails", "title": "Foxtailing buds on cannabis: genetics or stress?", "category": "diagnosis", "category_name": "Diagnosis", "slug": "foxtails", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diagnosis/foxtails.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diagnosis/foxtails.md", "summary": "Foxtails (new calyx spires growing out of mature buds) are either a cultivar trait, which appears evenly through the canopy, or a stress response to heat and intense light, which shows mostly on the top colas nearest the fixture. Measure canopy leaf temperature and PPFD at the tops; evidence is mainly grower observation.", "tags": [ "foxtail", "buds", "heat-stress", "light-stress", "genetics", "late-flower" ], "stage": [ "flower", "ripen" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "Why are my cannabis buds foxtailing?", "Is foxtailing on cannabis caused by heat or light?", "Is foxtailing in late flower genetic?", "Do foxtails mean my cannabis plant is a hermaphrodite?", "How can I prevent foxtails on cannabis?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-diagnosis-how-to-diagnose-any-problem", "kb-diagnosis-taco-canoeing-leaves", "kb-diagnosis-stretching", "kb-diagnosis-hermaphrodites" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-diagnosis-hermaphrodites", "title": "Hermaphrodite cannabis (bananas and nanners): what to do", "category": "diagnosis", "category_name": "Diagnosis", "slug": "hermaphrodites", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diagnosis/hermaphrodites.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diagnosis/hermaphrodites.md", "summary": "Hermaphroditic flowers are anthers (often banana-shaped) or pollen sacs forming on a female plant. Cannabis is a dioecious species, and a well-bred female should stay female; herm-prone plants are mainly the product of bad breeding (repeated selfing, careless feminising, untested 'pollen chucker' seed). Stress such as light leaks or heat reveals that weakness rather than causing it in sound genetics. Fix the environment, remove the plant if it sheds pollen, and never keep it as a mother or breed from it.", "tags": [ "hermaphrodite", "intersex", "bananas", "nanners", "anthers", "light-leaks", "stress", "seeds", "genetics", "breeding-ethics", "culling" ], "stage": [ "transition", "flower", "ripen" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "My cannabis plant is growing bananas: what do I do?", "Why did my cannabis plant turn hermaphrodite?", "Are cannabis hermaphrodites genetic or caused by stress?", "Can light leaks cause cannabis hermaphrodites?", "Are nanners in late cannabis flower a problem?", "Will a hermaphrodite pollinate my whole cannabis room?", "Should I keep or breed a cannabis plant that hermed?", "Are late-flower bananas normal on cannabis?", "Is it OK to have a few nanners at the end of cannabis flower?" ], "myths": [ "Late-flower bananas are normal", "A herm is fine if it's the best plant you've grown" ], "related": [ "kb-breeding-breeders-vs-pollen-chuckers", "kb-basics-sex-male-female-hermaphrodite", "kb-breeding-s1-selfing", "kb-breeding-feminised-seed-sex-reversal", "kb-breeding-selection-pheno-hunting", "kb-breeding-record-keeping-naming-ethics" ], "sources_count": 10, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-diagnosis-how-to-describe-your-plants-problem", "title": "How to describe your plant's problem so it can be diagnosed", "category": "diagnosis", "category_name": "Diagnosis", "slug": "how-to-describe-your-plants-problem", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diagnosis/how-to-describe-your-plants-problem.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diagnosis/how-to-describe-your-plants-problem.md", "summary": "A plant problem can be diagnosed quickly only if the description says where on the plant it started (old or new growth), the exact pattern, how fast it is spreading, and the readings: pH and EC of input and runoff, temperature, RH, light intensity or distance, medium, system, water source, stage with the day count from the flip, and anything you changed in the last week. Add a whole-plant photo and a close-up of the top and underside of an affected leaf, taken in white light.", "tags": [ "diagnosis", "photos", "readings", "journal", "ph", "ec", "vpd", "ppfd", "beginner" ], "stage": [ "seedling", "veg", "flower", "ripen" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "What information do I need to diagnose a cannabis plant problem?", "How do I take a good photo of a sick cannabis plant?", "Why does it matter if old or new leaves are affected?", "Should I give pH and EC readings when asking for help with my plant?", "What does 'what changed recently' mean in plant diagnosis?", "Can a GenetixBay journal fill in my plant readings automatically?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-diagnosis-how-to-diagnose-any-problem", "kb-diagnosis-lookalikes", "kb-guides-grow-journal-101", "kb-ph-ec-runoff-testing", "kb-ph-ec-ec-ppm-scales", "kb-ph-ec-meter-calibration" ], "sources_count": 7, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-diagnosis-how-to-diagnose-any-problem", "title": "How to diagnose any cannabis plant problem", "category": "diagnosis", "category_name": "Diagnosis", "slug": "how-to-diagnose-any-problem", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diagnosis/how-to-diagnose-any-problem.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diagnosis/how-to-diagnose-any-problem.md", "summary": "Diagnose in a fixed order: confirm it is a real problem, note where on the plant it started (old vs new growth) and the pattern, then rule out root zone and pH, then environment and light, then pests and disease, and only then blame a nutrient. Change one thing at a time and judge the fix on new growth.", "tags": [ "diagnosis", "method", "ph", "ec", "root-zone", "deficiency", "pests", "disease", "environment" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "How do I figure out what is wrong with my cannabis plant?", "Is it a nutrient deficiency or a pH problem?", "What should I check first when my cannabis plant looks sick?", "Why do growers say check pH before adding nutrients to cannabis?", "What does it mean when old cannabis leaves or new leaves show symptoms first?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-harvest-cure-flush-debate", "kb-diagnosis-yellowing-lower-leaves", "kb-diagnosis-yellow-new-growth", "kb-diagnosis-brown-burnt-tips", "kb-diagnosis-drooping-overwatering-vs-underwatering", "kb-diagnosis-root-browning-hydro" ], "sources_count": 6, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-diagnosis-purple-stems-leaves", "title": "Purple or red stems and leaves on cannabis: a differential", "category": "diagnosis", "category_name": "Diagnosis", "slug": "purple-stems-leaves", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diagnosis/purple-stems-leaves.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diagnosis/purple-stems-leaves.md", "summary": "Purple or red stems and petioles on a healthy, growing plant are usually genetics, cool nights or bright light, and need no fix. Treat it as a problem only when it comes with something else: lower-leaf yellowing (nitrogen), dark or bronzed spotting on old leaves (phosphorus), or slow growth with a cold or wet root zone. Check root-zone temperature and pH before adding phosphorus.", "tags": [ "purple", "red-stems", "anthocyanin", "phosphorus", "nitrogen", "cold", "genetics", "light" ], "stage": [ "seedling", "veg", "flower", "ripen" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "Why are my cannabis stems purple?", "Are red cannabis petioles a sign of phosphorus deficiency?", "Why do cannabis leaves turn purple in late flower?", "Do cold nights make cannabis turn purple?", "Should I add phosphorus to fix purple cannabis stems?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-diagnosis-how-to-diagnose-any-problem", "kb-diagnosis-yellowing-lower-leaves", "kb-diagnosis-rust-spots", "kb-diagnosis-slow-growth" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-diagnosis-discolouration-decision-tree", "title": "Purple, red, bronze or dark leaves on cannabis: the master discolouration decision tree", "category": "diagnosis", "category_name": "Diagnosis", "slug": "discolouration-decision-tree", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diagnosis/discolouration-decision-tree.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diagnosis/discolouration-decision-tree.md", "summary": "Most purple and red on a healthy, growing cannabis plant is anthocyanin: genetics, cool nights or strong light, and no fix is needed. Discolouration is a problem only alongside another sign: red-brown petioles with bottom-up yellowing (nitrogen), dull dark leaves with olive-bronze spots and slow growth (phosphorus uptake, often a cold or high-pH root zone), very dark glossy clawed leaves (nitrogen excess), bronze, brittle, upward-curling leaves (russet mites, or late Mg or K deficiency), or reds and oranges as leaves fade in late flower (normal senescence).", "tags": [ "purple", "red", "bronze", "dark-green", "grey", "anthocyanin", "cold", "phosphorus", "nitrogen-toxicity", "magnesium", "potassium", "russet-mites", "red-petioles", "light-stress", "senescence", "decision-tree" ], "stage": [ "seedling", "veg", "flower", "ripen" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "Why are my cannabis leaves turning purple?", "Do purple stems mean phosphorus deficiency in cannabis?", "Why are my cannabis leaves turning bronze?", "Why are my cannabis leaves very dark green?", "Do cold nights make cannabis purple?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-diagnosis-purple-stems-leaves", "kb-diagnosis-yellowing-decision-tree", "kb-diagnosis-curling-clawing-decision-tree", "kb-diagnosis-lookalikes", "kb-nutrients-phosphorus", "kb-nutrients-nitrogen" ], "sources_count": 10, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-diagnosis-rust-spots", "title": "Rust-coloured spots on cannabis leaves: a differential", "category": "diagnosis", "category_name": "Diagnosis", "slug": "rust-spots", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diagnosis/rust-spots.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diagnosis/rust-spots.md", "summary": "Rusty brown spots are most often a calcium or phosphorus uptake problem driven by pH or root-zone stress, but leaf septoria (spots with yellow halos on lower leaves, spreading in humidity) and spider-mite stippling look similar. Check pH and root zone, then turn the leaf over with a hand lens, then decide between Ca, P, Mg/Mn and disease.", "tags": [ "spots", "calcium", "phosphorus", "magnesium", "manganese", "septoria", "spider-mites", "ph" ], "stage": [ "veg", "flower" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "Why does my cannabis have rust spots on the leaves?", "Are brown spots on cannabis leaves from calcium or disease?", "What causes rusty spots with a yellow halo on cannabis leaves?", "Why do cannabis plants in coco get brown spots on lower leaves?", "Is it calcium deficiency or septoria on my cannabis?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-diagnosis-how-to-diagnose-any-problem", "kb-diagnosis-yellowing-lower-leaves", "kb-diagnosis-brown-burnt-tips", "kb-diseases-septoria-leaf-spot", "kb-pests-spider-mites", "kb-pests-broad-russet-mites" ], "sources_count": 6, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-diagnosis-slow-growth", "title": "Slow or stunted cannabis growth: a differential", "category": "diagnosis", "category_name": "Diagnosis", "slug": "slow-growth", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diagnosis/slow-growth.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diagnosis/slow-growth.md", "summary": "When a plant just isn't growing, the cause is usually the root zone (overwatering, cold, small or rotting roots), too little light, or a cool room; nutrient shortages come later. Plants that stay stunted with small leaves and short internodes while neighbours thrive should be tested for hop latent viroid and checked for root aphids.", "tags": [ "slow-growth", "stunting", "root-zone", "light", "temperature", "hlvd", "root-aphids", "overwatering" ], "stage": [ "seedling", "veg", "flower" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "Why is my cannabis growing so slowly?", "Why did my cannabis seedling stop growing?", "Why is my cannabis plant stunted with small leaves?", "Why is my cannabis clone not growing after rooting?", "Is my cannabis plant stunted by hop latent viroid?", "Why is my autoflower so small?", "Can a pot that is too big slow down a cannabis seedling?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-diagnosis-how-to-diagnose-any-problem", "kb-diagnosis-drooping-overwatering-vs-underwatering", "kb-diagnosis-yellow-new-growth", "kb-diagnosis-root-browning-hydro", "kb-diseases-hop-latent-viroid-and-viruses", "kb-pests-root-aphids" ], "sources_count": 11, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-diagnosis-spots-necrosis-decision-tree", "title": "Spots, brown patches and dead edges on cannabis leaves: the master decision tree", "category": "diagnosis", "category_name": "Diagnosis", "slug": "spots-necrosis-decision-tree", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diagnosis/spots-necrosis-decision-tree.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diagnosis/spots-necrosis-decision-tree.md", "summary": "Cannabis leaf spots and dead tissue sort into four groups: pest feeding (pale stippling or silver scars, seen with a 10–20× lens under the leaf), disease (spots with yellow halos and tiny black dots, spreading from the bottom in humidity), nutrient or root-zone disorders (Ca, P, K, Mn, B, salts, in a pattern tied to leaf age) and physical damage (spray droplets, fans, heat, light). Flip the leaf first, then check runoff pH and EC, and only then pick a nutrient.", "tags": [ "spots", "necrosis", "rust-spots", "leaf-spot", "calcium", "phosphorus", "potassium", "manganese", "boron", "septoria", "spider-mites", "thrips", "foliar-burn", "wind-burn", "decision-tree" ], "stage": [ "veg", "flower", "ripen" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "What causes brown spots on cannabis leaves?", "Is it calcium deficiency or spider mites on my cannabis?", "What do septoria leaf spots look like on cannabis?", "Why are my cannabis leaf edges brown and crispy?", "Do brown spots on cannabis leaves go away?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-diagnosis-rust-spots", "kb-diagnosis-brown-burnt-tips", "kb-diagnosis-lookalikes", "kb-diseases-septoria-leaf-spot", "kb-pests-spider-mites", "kb-pests-thrips" ], "sources_count": 10, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-diagnosis-stretching", "title": "Stretchy, leggy cannabis: a differential", "category": "diagnosis", "category_name": "Diagnosis", "slug": "stretching", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diagnosis/stretching.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diagnosis/stretching.md", "summary": "Long internodes and thin stems mean the plant is reaching for light: PPFD too low, light too far away, a low red-to-far-red ratio (shade or crowding), or warm days relative to nights. Some stretch in the first 2–3 weeks after the switch to 12/12 is normal and cultivar dependent. Measure PPFD and day/night temperatures before blaming genetics.", "tags": [ "stretch", "internodes", "light", "far-red", "temperature", "dif", "seedlings", "flower-stretch" ], "stage": [ "seedling", "veg", "transition" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "Why is my cannabis seedling so stretched?", "Why is my cannabis plant leggy with long gaps between nodes?", "How much do cannabis plants stretch in flower?", "Does far-red light cause cannabis stretching?", "How can I stop cannabis from stretching?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-diagnosis-how-to-diagnose-any-problem", "kb-diagnosis-slow-growth", "kb-diagnosis-foxtails", "kb-diagnosis-taco-canoeing-leaves" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-diagnosis-taco-canoeing-leaves", "title": "Taco or canoeing leaves on cannabis: a differential", "category": "diagnosis", "category_name": "Diagnosis", "slug": "taco-canoeing-leaves", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diagnosis/taco-canoeing-leaves.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diagnosis/taco-canoeing-leaves.md", "summary": "Leaflets folding upward along the midrib (taco, canoe) on the top of the canopy are almost always heat or light stress, often with low humidity (high VPD). Measure leaf temperature, PPFD and RH at the canopy before anything else; if the whole plant is affected, check the root zone, then calcium and magnesium.", "tags": [ "taco", "canoe", "heat-stress", "light-stress", "vpd", "humidity", "calcium", "root-zone" ], "stage": [ "veg", "flower" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "Why are my cannabis leaves folding up like a taco?", "Why are cannabis leaves canoeing under an LED?", "Why are the edges of my cannabis leaves curling up?", "Is taco leaf on cannabis heat stress or calcium deficiency?", "What VPD stops cannabis leaves curling?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-diagnosis-how-to-diagnose-any-problem", "kb-diagnosis-brown-burnt-tips", "kb-diagnosis-clawing-leaves", "kb-diagnosis-foxtails", "kb-diagnosis-yellow-new-growth", "kb-pests-broad-russet-mites" ], "sources_count": 5, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-diagnosis-white-grey-coatings-decision-tree", "title": "White or grey coating on cannabis: the master decision tree", "category": "diagnosis", "category_name": "Diagnosis", "slug": "white-grey-coatings-decision-tree", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diagnosis/white-grey-coatings-decision-tree.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diagnosis/white-grey-coatings-decision-tree.md", "summary": "A white or grey coating on cannabis is, in order of how often it matters: powdery mildew (flour-like patches that smear and return), spray or hard-water residue (follows the drip lines), trichomes (on buds and sugar leaves only), thrips silvering, spider-mite webbing, or grey Botrytis fuzz on buds and stems. On the medium, white fuzz is usually harmless mycelium and a hard crust is salt. A rub test and a 20–60x lens settle most cases in two minutes.", "tags": [ "white-powder", "powdery-mildew", "botrytis", "residue", "thrips", "spider-mites", "whiteflies", "sooty-mould", "mealybugs", "root-aphids", "salt-crust", "algae", "mycelium", "decision-tree" ], "stage": [ "seedling", "veg", "flower", "ripen" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "What is the white powder on my cannabis leaves?", "Is grey fuzz on my cannabis buds bud rot?", "Why are my cannabis leaves silvery?", "What is the white fuzz on top of my cannabis soil?", "Why are my cannabis leaves sticky and black?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-diagnosis-white-powder-on-leaves", "kb-diseases-powdery-mildew", "kb-diseases-botrytis-bud-rot", "kb-pests-thrips", "kb-pests-spider-mites", "kb-pests-whiteflies" ], "sources_count": 11, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-diagnosis-white-powder-on-leaves", "title": "White powder or white spots on cannabis leaves: a differential", "category": "diagnosis", "category_name": "Diagnosis", "slug": "white-powder-on-leaves", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diagnosis/white-powder-on-leaves.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diagnosis/white-powder-on-leaves.md", "summary": "Flour-like circular white patches that smear off and come back are powdery mildew until proven otherwise. Rule out spray or hard-water residue (on the surfaces you sprayed, dries in drip lines), trichomes (on sugar leaves and buds, glassy under a lens), silvery thrips scarring and mite stippling. Confirm with a 20-60x lens before treating.", "tags": [ "white-powder", "powdery-mildew", "residue", "trichomes", "thrips", "spider-mites", "whiteflies", "salts" ], "stage": [ "veg", "flower" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "What is the white powder on my cannabis leaves?", "Is it powdery mildew or trichomes on my cannabis?", "Why are there white spots on cannabis leaves after spraying?", "What causes silver streaks on cannabis leaves?", "How do I confirm powdery mildew on cannabis?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-diagnosis-how-to-diagnose-any-problem", "kb-diagnosis-rust-spots", "kb-diseases-powdery-mildew", "kb-diseases-botrytis-bud-rot", "kb-pests-thrips", "kb-pests-spider-mites" ], "sources_count": 6, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-diagnosis-curling-clawing-decision-tree", "title": "Why are my cannabis leaves curling? The master curling and clawing decision tree", "category": "diagnosis", "category_name": "Diagnosis", "slug": "curling-clawing-decision-tree", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diagnosis/curling-clawing-decision-tree.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diagnosis/curling-clawing-decision-tree.md", "summary": "Which way a cannabis leaf curls is the first clue. Edges folding up (taco, canoe) at the top of the canopy is heat, light or high VPD. Tips hooking down like a talon on dark, glossy leaves is excess nitrogen with high EC; whole leaves curling down and puffy on a heavy pot is overwatering. Twisted, crinkled, stunted new growth is broad or russet mites, calcium or boron delivery, a viroid, or growth-regulator herbicide drift. Leaves angled up and flat at lights-on ('praying') is healthy.", "tags": [ "curling", "clawing", "taco", "canoe", "praying", "twisted-growth", "nitrogen-toxicity", "overwatering", "heat-stress", "vpd", "broad-mites", "calcium", "boron", "herbicide", "decision-tree" ], "stage": [ "seedling", "veg", "flower" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "Why are my cannabis leaves curling up?", "Why are my cannabis leaves clawing down?", "What causes twisted new growth on cannabis?", "Are praying cannabis leaves good or bad?", "Will curled cannabis leaves flatten out again?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-diagnosis-clawing-leaves", "kb-diagnosis-taco-canoeing-leaves", "kb-diagnosis-lookalikes", "kb-pests-broad-russet-mites", "kb-environment-heat-light-stress", "kb-environment-vpd-explained" ], "sources_count": 11, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-diagnosis-drooping-wilting-decision-tree", "title": "Why is my cannabis drooping or wilting? The master decision tree", "category": "diagnosis", "category_name": "Diagnosis", "slug": "drooping-wilting-decision-tree", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diagnosis/drooping-wilting-decision-tree.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diagnosis/drooping-wilting-decision-tree.md", "summary": "Drooping cannabis is diagnosed by one question: is the root zone wet or dry? A light, dry pot with limp leaves is underwatering; a heavy, wet pot with firm, curled-down leaves is overwatering. Wilting while the roots sit in water means the roots are failing: Pythium root rot, low dissolved oxygen, a hot reservoir, Fusarium wilt, or (in DWC and especially HPA) a failed pump, which is an emergency measured in minutes to hours. Transplant shock, unrooted clones, heat, stem damage and salt stress complete the list.", "tags": [ "drooping", "wilting", "overwatering", "underwatering", "root-rot", "pythium", "dissolved-oxygen", "fusarium-wilt", "pump-failure", "hpa", "dwc", "transplant-shock", "clones", "heat-stress", "salt-stress", "decision-tree" ], "stage": [ "seedling", "veg", "flower" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "Why is my cannabis plant drooping?", "How do I tell overwatering from underwatering in cannabis?", "Why is my DWC cannabis wilting with roots in water?", "What should I do if my HPA pump fails?", "Is drooping after transplant normal for cannabis?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-diagnosis-drooping-overwatering-vs-underwatering", "kb-diagnosis-root-browning-hydro", "kb-diagnosis-root-problems-decision-tree", "kb-diseases-root-rot-pythium", "kb-diseases-fusarium", "kb-systems-hpa-aeroponics" ], "sources_count": 10, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-diagnosis-yellowing-decision-tree", "title": "Why is my cannabis turning yellow? The master yellowing decision tree", "category": "diagnosis", "category_name": "Diagnosis", "slug": "yellowing-decision-tree", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diagnosis/yellowing-decision-tree.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diagnosis/yellowing-decision-tree.md", "summary": "Cannabis yellowing is diagnosed in four forks: where it started (old leaves = mobile N, Mg, K; new leaves = immobile Fe, S, Mn, Zn, Ca, B), the pattern (uniform, interveinal, margins, spots, bleached tops), the root-zone readings (pH, EC, moisture, root colour) and the stage. Most yellowing in practice is roots that cannot absorb (overwatering, cold, rot, pH out of range) rather than a missing nutrient; late-flower fade and top-only bleaching under strong light are not deficiencies.", "tags": [ "yellowing", "chlorosis", "interveinal", "nitrogen", "magnesium", "iron", "sulfur", "ph-lockout", "overwatering", "light-bleaching", "senescence", "decision-tree" ], "stage": [ "seedling", "veg", "flower", "ripen" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "Why is my cannabis plant turning yellow?", "Is yellowing at the top or the bottom of my cannabis plant worse?", "How do I tell nitrogen from magnesium yellowing on cannabis?", "Should I flush my cannabis if the leaves turn yellow?", "Is it normal for cannabis leaves to turn yellow in late flower?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-diagnosis-yellowing-lower-leaves", "kb-diagnosis-yellow-new-growth", "kb-diagnosis-how-to-diagnose-any-problem", "kb-diagnosis-lookalikes", "kb-diagnosis-root-problems-decision-tree", "kb-nutrients-mobile-vs-immobile-nutrients" ], "sources_count": 10, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-diagnosis-yellow-new-growth", "title": "Yellow new growth on cannabis: a differential", "category": "diagnosis", "category_name": "Diagnosis", "slug": "yellow-new-growth", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diagnosis/yellow-new-growth.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diagnosis/yellow-new-growth.md", "summary": "Yellowing at the top of the plant points to an immobile nutrient (Fe, S, Mn, Zn, Cu, B, Ca) that the roots are failing to deliver, and the usual cause is high root-zone pH or a wet, cold or damaged root zone rather than a lack of fertiliser. Rule out light bleaching, broad/russet mites and viroid stunting before adding micronutrients.", "tags": [ "yellowing", "new-growth", "iron", "sulfur", "manganese", "zinc", "ph", "light-bleaching", "broad-mites", "hlvd" ], "stage": [ "veg", "flower" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "Why are the new leaves on my cannabis yellow?", "Why is the top of my cannabis plant yellow but the bottom green?", "Is yellow new growth on cannabis iron deficiency?", "Why are the tops of my cannabis bleached white under an LED?", "What causes twisted yellow new growth on cannabis?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-diagnosis-how-to-diagnose-any-problem", "kb-diagnosis-yellowing-lower-leaves", "kb-diagnosis-slow-growth", "kb-diagnosis-taco-canoeing-leaves", "kb-pests-broad-russet-mites", "kb-diseases-hop-latent-viroid-and-viruses" ], "sources_count": 6, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-diagnosis-yellowing-lower-leaves", "title": "Yellowing lower leaves on cannabis: a differential", "category": "diagnosis", "category_name": "Diagnosis", "slug": "yellowing-lower-leaves", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diagnosis/yellowing-lower-leaves.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diagnosis/yellowing-lower-leaves.md", "summary": "Lower-leaf yellowing is usually nitrogen shortage or, far more often, roots that cannot take nitrogen up (overwatering, cold or rotting roots, pH out of range). Uniform yellow climbing from the bottom suggests N; green veins with yellow between them suggests Mg; yellow-then-brown margins suggest K. In late flower, gradual fade is normal.", "tags": [ "yellowing", "chlorosis", "nitrogen", "magnesium", "potassium", "overwatering", "ph", "senescence" ], "stage": [ "veg", "flower", "ripen" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "Why are the bottom leaves of my cannabis turning yellow?", "Is lower leaf yellowing on cannabis nitrogen deficiency?", "Why are the bottom cannabis leaves yellow with green veins?", "Is yellowing normal in late cannabis flower?", "Should I add more nitrogen if my cannabis lower leaves are yellow?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-diagnosis-how-to-diagnose-any-problem", "kb-diagnosis-yellow-new-growth", "kb-diagnosis-drooping-overwatering-vs-underwatering", "kb-diagnosis-rust-spots", "kb-diagnosis-root-browning-hydro", "kb-pests-root-aphids" ], "sources_count": 6, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-harvest-cure-curing-burping", "title": "Curing and burping: jars, humidity and how long", "category": "harvest-cure", "category_name": "Harvest and cure", "slug": "curing-burping", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/harvest-cure/curing-burping.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/harvest-cure/curing-burping.md", "summary": "Curing is a slow, steady decline in the bud's moisture content and water activity, not a constant hold: start around aw 0.62–0.65 and let it settle towards 0.55–0.58 over two to eight weeks, burping daily at first, then weekly. Jar RH is only a proxy for the bud, valid once a sealed jar has equilibrated (aw ≈ RH / 100). Check with the stem snap, an equilibrated hygrometer and weight. Humidity packs are a marketing gimmick; if a jar is too dry, add a fresh bud.", "tags": [ "curing", "burping", "jars", "humidity-packs", "water-activity", "moisture-content", "smoothness", "water-curing" ], "stage": [ "cure" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "How long should I cure cannabis?", "How often should I burp jars?", "What humidity should my curing jars be?", "What water activity should cured buds be?", "What moisture content should cured cannabis have?", "How do I know my buds are dry enough to jar?", "Do humidity packs work for curing?", "Should jar humidity stay constant during a cure?", "Is water curing worth it?", "Why does my cure smell like hay?", "Can curing fix a bad dry?" ], "myths": [ "Two-way humidity packs make a better cure" ], "related": [ "kb-harvest-cure-drying", "kb-harvest-cure-long-term-storage", "kb-harvest-cure-flush-debate" ], "sources_count": 5, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-harvest-cure-drying", "title": "Drying cannabis: the 60/60 method and water activity", "category": "harvest-cure", "category_name": "Harvest and cure", "slug": "drying", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/harvest-cure/drying.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/harvest-cure/drying.md", "summary": "Dry slowly and in the dark at about 15–21 °C (60–70 °F) and 55–62 % RH, the popular 60/60 target, for 7–14 days until small stems snap and buds reach a water activity of about 0.60–0.65. ASTM D8197 sets 0.55–0.65 aw as the range that protects against mould without making flower brittle. Judge the bud (stem snap, an equilibrated jar reading, weight), not the room. Wet vs dry trim is grower preference. Fast, warm drying loses volatile monoterpenes, and wet, still air grows mould.", "tags": [ "drying", "60-60", "water-activity", "moisture-content", "humidity", "terpenes", "mould", "hang-dry", "wet-trim", "dry-trim" ], "stage": [ "harvest" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "Is freeze drying better for cannabis?", "Why does my weed smell like hay?", "What is the 60/60 drying method?", "How long should cannabis dry?", "What humidity and temperature for drying?", "What water activity should dried cannabis have?", "Should I wet trim or dry trim?", "Is dry trimming better than wet trimming?", "How much weight does cannabis lose when drying?", "My buds dried in 3 days, are they ruined?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-harvest-cure-curing-burping", "kb-harvest-cure-long-term-storage", "kb-harvest-cure-trichome-ripeness", "kb-environment-humidity-by-stage", "kb-diseases-botrytis-bud-rot" ], "sources_count": 7, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-harvest-cure-irradiated-cannabis", "title": "Irradiated cannabis: gamma, e-beam, X-ray, ozone, RF and what they do to your weed", "category": "harvest-cure", "category_name": "Harvest and cure", "slug": "irradiated-cannabis", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/harvest-cure/irradiated-cannabis.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/harvest-cure/irradiated-cannabis.md", "summary": "Much legal cannabis is decontaminated after harvest so it can pass microbial limits. That means ionising radiation (gamma from cobalt-60, electron beam, X-ray), or ozone, cold plasma, radio-frequency heating, UV or steam. Irradiation doesn't make flower radioactive. At typical doses (2.5–20 kGy) studies find no meaningful change in total THC or CBD. Effects on terpenes range from nothing measurable to 10–20 % losses of volatile monoterpenes, up to 38 % for one compound. Killing mould doesn't remove mycotoxins it has already made. Disclosure rules are patchy: Canada requires the irradiation symbol on edibles but not on dried flower, Washington discloses remediation to consumers only on request, and Nevada has a treatment-label rule. Most places tell the shopper nothing. Growing your own, where legal, with clean IPM and a proper dry avoids the issue.", "tags": [ "irradiation", "gamma", "electron-beam", "x-ray", "ozone", "cold-plasma", "radio-frequency", "uv-c", "decontamination", "remediation", "microbial-testing", "yeast-and-mould", "aspergillus", "mycotoxins", "terpenes", "labelling", "consumer" ], "stage": [ "harvest", "cure" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "Is legal weed irradiated?", "Is irradiated weed radioactive?", "Does irradiation destroy terpenes?", "Does irradiation lower THC?", "Why is cannabis irradiated?", "What is e-beam cannabis?", "What is remediated cannabis?", "Do dispensaries have to tell you if weed is irradiated?", "Is irradiated cannabis labelled in Canada?", "Does ozone treatment ruin cannabis?", "What is RF decontamination of cannabis?", "What are the microbial limits for cannabis?", "Does irradiation remove mycotoxins?", "How can I tell if my cannabis was irradiated?", "Is medical cannabis irradiated?" ], "myths": [ "Irradiated weed is radioactive", "Irradiation has no effect on terpenes", "A passing retest means the mould problem is gone" ], "related": [ "kb-harvest-cure-drying", "kb-harvest-cure-curing-burping", "kb-harvest-cure-long-term-storage", "kb-diseases-botrytis-bud-rot", "kb-diseases-sanitation-and-prevention", "kb-basics-buyer-beware-label-claims" ], "sources_count": 34, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-harvest-cure-long-term-storage", "title": "Long-term storage: keeping cured flower potent and aromatic", "category": "harvest-cure", "category_name": "Harvest and cure", "slug": "long-term-storage", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/harvest-cure/long-term-storage.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/harvest-cure/long-term-storage.md", "summary": "Light is the biggest single cause of cannabinoid loss in storage, air oxidation turns THC into CBN, and warmth and humidity speed both and invite mould. Store cured flower in full, airtight, opaque glass with the bud at aw 0.55–0.65 (an equilibrated jar reading), cool and dark; skip humidity packs, a marketing gimmick. Kept that way it is reasonably stable for one to two years; at room temperature over several years THC loss can be near total. Freezing is possible but makes trichomes brittle.", "tags": [ "storage", "thc-degradation", "cbn", "light", "oxygen", "temperature", "freezing", "water-activity", "humidity-packs" ], "stage": [ "cure" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "Should I store cannabis with humidity packs?", "How long does cured cannabis stay good?", "Does cannabis lose potency over time?", "Should I store cannabis in the freezer?", "Why does old weed turn into CBN?", "What is the best container for storing buds?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-harvest-cure-curing-burping", "kb-harvest-cure-drying", "kb-harvest-cure-trichome-ripeness" ], "sources_count": 6, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-harvest-cure-flush-debate", "title": "Pre-harvest flushing: a myth that costs you yield and resin", "category": "harvest-cure", "category_name": "Harvest and cure", "slug": "flush-debate", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/harvest-cure/flush-debate.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/harvest-cure/flush-debate.md", "summary": "Pre-harvest flushing is a myth, and a harmful one. Starving the plant of nutrients in its last weeks takes food away during the phase when it is packing on most of its final weight, trichomes and resin, so it costs yield and resin and gives nothing back: controlled studies found no gain in flower quality, minerals or cannabinoids, and longer nutrient withdrawal tended to cut dry mass and cannabinoid yield. Cannabis stores what it takes up in its tissue, and plain water at the end does not wash it out. Feed through to harvest at stage-appropriate strength; taste and ash are made by plant health, not overfeeding, and slow drying and proper curing. The one valid flush treats the medium, not the plant: a root-zone flush to wash out accumulated salts, at any stage.", "tags": [ "flush", "flushing", "pre-harvest", "ash", "taste", "nutrients", "yield", "bioaccumulator", "salt-buildup", "root-zone" ], "stage": [ "ripen", "harvest" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "myth", "evidence_name": "Myth", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "Should I flush my cannabis before harvest?", "Is flushing a myth?", "Does flushing improve taste or make white ash?", "Does flushing reduce yield?", "How long should I flush?", "Should I flush living soil?", "When is flushing actually useful?", "How do I flush salt build-up out of coco or soil?", "Does lower nitrogen at the end raise THC percentage?", "What should I do instead of flushing?", "Should I put my plants in darkness before harvest?", "How do I taper nitrogen before harvest?", "Why does tissue nitrogen drop in late flower?" ], "myths": [ "Flushing with plain water before harvest makes smoother, better-tasting buds" ], "related": [ "kb-nutrients-flushing", "kb-harvest-cure-trichome-ripeness", "kb-harvest-cure-drying", "kb-harvest-cure-curing-burping", "kb-nutrients-feed-by-stage", "kb-nutrients-nitrogen" ], "sources_count": 10, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-harvest-cure-trichome-ripeness", "title": "Trichome ripeness: clear, cloudy, amber, and what the evidence says", "category": "harvest-cure", "category_name": "Harvest and cure", "slug": "trichome-ripeness", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/harvest-cure/trichome-ripeness.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/harvest-cure/trichome-ripeness.md", "summary": "Trichome heads go from clear to cloudy (milky) to amber or brown as flowers mature; research confirms browning marks gland senescence and that trichomes on one bract mature unevenly and at genotype-specific rates. Cannabinoid concentration typically rises to a plateau and then falls as plants senesce. The popular claim that amber heads mean high CBN and couch-lock is a myth: CBN mainly forms by oxidation after harvest. A dark period before harvest is a myth too. Harvest when most heads are cloudy with some amber, and track it by date and lab tests for your cultivar.", "tags": [ "trichomes", "harvest-timing", "amber", "cloudy", "milky", "cbn", "ripeness", "loupe" ], "stage": [ "ripen", "harvest" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "Should I harvest at cloudy or amber trichomes?", "When should I harvest based on trichomes?", "Does amber trichome mean more CBN?", "Do amber trichomes make a couchlock high?", "Should I put my plants in darkness before harvest?", "What percentage of amber trichomes should I harvest at?", "Should I look at trichomes on the sugar leaves or the calyx?", "Are pistil colours a good harvest indicator?" ], "myths": [ "24–72 hours of darkness before harvest boosts resin and THC", "Amber trichomes mean CBN and couch-lock" ], "related": [ "kb-basics-buyer-beware-label-claims", "kb-harvest-cure-flush-debate", "kb-harvest-cure-drying", "kb-harvest-cure-long-term-storage", "kb-environment-photoperiod-light-leaks", "kb-environment-flip-to-flower-transition" ], "sources_count": 6, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-breeding-backcrossing-ibl-stabilisation", "title": "Backcrossing, IBLs and stabilisation", "category": "breeding", "category_name": "Breeding", "slug": "backcrossing-ibl-stabilisation", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/breeding/backcrossing-ibl-stabilisation.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/breeding/backcrossing-ibl-stabilisation.md", "summary": "A backcross crosses offspring back to one parent (the recurrent parent) to recover that parent's genome while keeping a trait from the other: each backcross halves the donor's share (50%, 25%, 12.5%, 6.25%...). An IBL is a line inbred and selected over many generations until it breeds fairly true. 'Stable' should mean measured uniformity across a grow-out, not a generation count.", "tags": [ "backcross", "BX", "IBL", "inbred-line", "stabilisation", "recurrent-parent", "introgression", "cubing" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "level": "breeder", "qa": [ "What is a backcross in cannabis breeding?", "What does BX1, BX2, BX3 mean?", "What is cubing?", "What is an IBL and how many generations does it take?", "How do I know if my line is stable?", "How do I add one trait to my favourite strain?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-breeding-f1-f2-f3-explained", "kb-breeding-s1-selfing", "kb-breeding-inbreeding-depression-hybrid-vigour", "kb-breeding-breeding-autoflowers", "kb-breeding-documenting-lineage-evidence" ], "sources_count": 6, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-breeding-record-keeping-naming-ethics", "title": "Breeder record-keeping and naming ethics", "category": "breeding", "category_name": "Breeding", "slug": "record-keeping-naming-ethics", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/breeding/record-keeping-naming-ethics.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/breeding/record-keeping-naming-ethics.md", "summary": "Keep a dated record of every plant, cross, batch and test, linked by permanent IDs, so any seed can be traced to its parents. Name lines honestly: a new, unique name for new genetics, the original name only for the original genetics, clear labels (F2, BX, S1, feminised), and never a famous name on something it isn't. Names are claims; records are the evidence. Sex stability is part of the ethics: cull herm-prone plants, never breed from them, and publish every batch's herm rate.", "tags": [ "records", "pedigree", "naming", "ethics", "cultivar-name", "GB-BAT", "GB-GEN", "honesty", "provenance" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "breeder", "qa": [ "What records should a cannabis breeder keep?", "How should I name my new strain?", "Can I use someone else's strain name?", "What should go on a seed pack label?", "How do I write a pedigree?", "Is it OK to rename a clone?", "Should breeders disclose hermaphrodite rates?", "Is it ethical to sell seed from a plant that hermed?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-diagnosis-hermaphrodites", "kb-breeding-s1-selfing", "kb-breeding-feminised-seed-sex-reversal", "kb-breeding-documenting-lineage-evidence", "kb-breeding-seed-germination-testing-qc", "kb-breeding-selection-pheno-hunting" ], "sources_count": 5, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-breeding-breeders-vs-pollen-chuckers", "title": "Breeders vs pollen chuckers: what real cannabis breeding looks like", "category": "breeding", "category_name": "Breeding", "slug": "breeders-vs-pollen-chuckers", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/breeding/breeders-vs-pollen-chuckers.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/breeding/breeders-vs-pollen-chuckers.md", "summary": "A breeder sets a goal, grows large populations, selects both females and males, progeny-tests the parents, stabilises the line over generations (F2s, backcrosses, IBLs), test-grows every batch and discloses its herm rate. A pollen chucker crosses two popular cuts, or selfs one, and sells the first-generation seed untested. Plant-breeding science explains why the difference shows up in your tent: crosses of heterozygous clones segregate, selecting only one sex halves progress, and intersex expression is heritable and responds to selection.", "tags": [ "breeding", "pollen-chucker", "selection", "males", "progeny-testing", "stabilisation", "ibl", "herm-rate", "heritability", "breeders-equation", "ethics", "f1", "s1" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "What is a pollen chucker?", "What's the difference between a breeder and a pollen chucker?", "Is crossing two clones breeding?", "Why do males matter in cannabis breeding?", "How many plants do you need to test a seed line?", "How many plants to prove a low herm rate?", "Why are some seed lines so inconsistent?", "How do I tell if a seed line was properly bred?", "What is progeny testing?" ], "myths": [ "Crossing two famous cuts makes a new strain", "Only the females matter in breeding", "A 10-plant test grow proves a line is herm-free" ], "related": [ "kb-breeding-record-keeping-naming-ethics", "kb-breeding-documenting-lineage-evidence", "kb-breeding-selection-pheno-hunting", "kb-breeding-backcrossing-ibl-stabilisation", "kb-breeding-s1-selfing", "kb-diagnosis-hermaphrodites" ], "sources_count": 14, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-breeding-breeding-autoflowers", "title": "Breeding autoflowers: getting the trait into a photoperiod line", "category": "breeding", "category_name": "Breeding", "slug": "breeding-autoflowers", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/breeding/breeding-autoflowers.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/breeding/breeding-autoflowers.md", "summary": "Because autoflowering is recessive in mapped populations, a photo x auto F1 is all photoperiod. You recover autos in the F2 (about 1 in 4) or by backcrossing the F1 to the auto parent (about 1 in 2). To make an auto version of a photoperiod line, alternate crossing to the photo parent with a generation that reveals autos, or use a DNA marker to keep carriers.", "tags": [ "autoflower", "Autoflower1", "recessive", "backcross", "F2", "day-neutral", "marker-assisted" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "breeder", "qa": [ "How do I breed my own autoflower strain?", "Why are all my auto x photo seeds photoperiod?", "How many generations to make an autoflower version of a strain?", "Can I cross two autoflowers?", "How do I make sure my auto line is stable?", "Why are autoflowers less potent than photoperiods?", "Are autos better than photoperiods?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-breeding-breeders-vs-pollen-chuckers", "kb-breeding-quantitative-traits-heritability", "kb-germination-transplanting", "kb-training-lst", "kb-basics-photoperiod-vs-autoflower", "kb-breeding-backcrossing-ibl-stabilisation" ], "sources_count": 8, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-breeding-chemotype-inheritance", "title": "Chemotype inheritance: how THC and CBD synthase alleles pass on", "category": "breeding", "category_name": "Breeding", "slug": "chemotype-inheritance", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/breeding/chemotype-inheritance.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/breeding/chemotype-inheritance.md", "summary": "Whether a plant is THC dominant, CBD dominant or mixed is controlled mainly by a single inheritance block carrying THCA synthase and CBDA synthase genes, which behaves close to codominant: THC x CBD gives mixed (type II) F1s and a 1:2:1 split in the F2. CBG-dominant and cannabinoid-free types come from non-functional synthase alleles. Total cannabinoid amount is a separate, quantitative trait.", "tags": [ "chemotype", "THCAS", "CBDAS", "THC", "CBD", "CBG", "codominant", "synthase", "chemotype-I", "chemotype-II", "chemotype-III" ], "stage": [ "flower" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "level": "breeder", "qa": [ "If I cross a THC plant with a CBD plant what do I get?", "How is the THC to CBD ratio inherited?", "What are chemotypes I, II, III, IV and V?", "Can a 1:1 THC:CBD plant breed true?", "How are CBG-dominant plants made?", "Can I predict THC percentage from genetics?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-basics-buyer-beware-label-claims", "kb-breeding-mendelian-genetics-for-growers", "kb-breeding-quantitative-traits-heritability", "kb-breeding-genotyping-what-tests-prove", "kb-genetics-history-how-hybrid-strains-emerged" ], "sources_count": 8, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-breeding-clone-only-preservation", "title": "Clone-only cuts and how to preserve them", "category": "breeding", "category_name": "Breeding", "slug": "clone-only-preservation", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/breeding/clone-only-preservation.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/breeding/clone-only-preservation.md", "summary": "A clone-only is one selected genotype kept alive by cuttings. It can be lost to pests, disease, hop latent viroid (HLVd) or accident, and it accumulates rare somatic mutations, which are not the same thing as a loss. Cuts from different parts of a plant can also behave differently (topophysis), so take them from consistent locations. Preserve it with clean, tested mothers in at least two locations, regular fresh cuttings, a tissue-culture backup where possible, and seed (S1s or crosses) as genetic insurance, not as a copy.", "tags": [ "clone-only", "cut", "mother-plant", "preservation", "HLVd", "viroid", "somatic-mutation", "topophysis", "cutting-position", "backup" ], "stage": [ "veg" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "advanced", "qa": [ "What is a clone-only strain?", "How do I keep a mother plant long-term?", "Do clones degrade over time (genetic drift)?", "Is clone decline real?", "What is hop latent viroid and how do I keep it out?", "How can I back up a clone?", "Is a clone-only from two different people the same plant?", "Why do clones from the same mother grow differently?", "Where on the mother should I take cuttings?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-breeding-tissue-culture-basics", "kb-breeding-s1-selfing", "kb-breeding-genotyping-what-tests-prove", "kb-basics-seed-types-regular-feminised-auto-clone", "kb-breeding-documenting-lineage-evidence", "kb-diseases-hop-latent-viroid-and-viruses" ], "sources_count": 7, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-breeding-pollen-collection-storage", "title": "Collecting and storing cannabis pollen", "category": "breeding", "category_name": "Breeding", "slug": "pollen-collection-storage", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/breeding/pollen-collection-storage.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/breeding/pollen-collection-storage.md", "summary": "Collect pollen from freshly opened sacs in still, clean air, sieve it, dry it briefly, and use it within days, or mix it with a dry carrier (baked flour), seal it with desiccant and freeze it. Cannabis pollen loses viability within about a week in a fridge; one study kept it viable for at least four months by mixing it 1:10 with baked flour, vacuum-drying and storing in liquid nitrogen. Home freezer storage is grower practice and should be germination tested.", "tags": [ "pollen", "storage", "freezer", "flour", "desiccant", "viability", "cryopreservation" ], "stage": [ "flower" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "How do I collect cannabis pollen?", "How long does cannabis pollen last?", "Can I freeze cannabis pollen?", "Why mix pollen with flour?", "How do I test if my pollen is still viable?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-breeding-record-keeping-naming-ethics", "kb-breeding-s1-selfing", "kb-breeding-pollination-seed-production", "kb-breeding-feminised-seed-sex-reversal", "kb-breeding-clone-only-preservation" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-breeding-elite-clone-gatekeeping", "title": "Elite clone-only gatekeeping: why the classics live in a few hands", "category": "breeding", "category_name": "Breeding", "slug": "elite-clone-gatekeeping", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/breeding/elite-clone-gatekeeping.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/breeding/elite-clone-gatekeeping.md", "summary": "Many celebrated cultivars, from the Chem 91 and original OG Kush cuts to Pre-'98 Bubba Kush and old Skunk phenotypes, began as single plants and spread as cuttings through small circles. Published histories describe cuts passed only between friends, press reports put rare clone-only cuts at US$10,000 or more, and the classic Skunk aroma is described by veterans as gone from today's seed. The founder's view is that some holders keep cuts closed on purpose to control the gene pool. The public record documents the scarcity and the closed circles but can't show motive. A single garden is also a single point of failure: one HLVd infection or one bad summer can erase a cut. GenetixBay's answer is open preservation: GB-IDs, the Stud Book, preservation rewards and sharing in legal lanes.", "tags": [ "clone-only", "elite-cut", "cut-trading", "gatekeeping", "preservation", "skunk", "chemdog", "og-kush", "bubba-kush", "tissue-culture", "cryopreservation", "HLVd", "stud-book", "GB-ID" ], "stage": [ "veg" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "What is an elite clone-only cut?", "Why are some strains clone-only?", "How much do elite cannabis clones cost?", "Is the original Skunk #1 lost?", "Where did the Chemdog and OG Kush cuts come from?", "Why won't people share rare cuts?", "How can rare clones be preserved?", "Can cannabis clones be frozen or stored in tissue culture?" ], "myths": [ "If it has the right name, it's the real cut" ], "related": [ "kb-breeding-clone-only-preservation", "kb-breeding-tissue-culture-basics", "kb-diseases-hop-latent-viroid-and-viruses", "kb-genetics-history-same-cut-a-thousand-names", "kb-genetics-history-why-everything-tastes-the-same", "kb-breeding-genotyping-what-tests-prove" ], "sources_count": 14, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-breeding-f1-f2-f3-explained", "title": "F1, F2, F3 explained: what filial generations really mean", "category": "breeding", "category_name": "Breeding", "slug": "f1-f2-f3-explained", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/breeding/f1-f2-f3-explained.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/breeding/f1-f2-f3-explained.md", "summary": "An F1 is the first generation from two parents; it is uniform only if both parents were true-breeding (inbred). An F2 comes from crossing F1 siblings and shows the most variation. Each later generation of sib-mating with selection increases uniformity slowly. In cannabis, most 'F1 hybrids' are crosses of heterozygous clones, so they behave like segregating F2s.", "tags": [ "F1", "F2", "F3", "filial", "segregation", "uniformity", "homozygosity", "hybrid" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "What does F1 mean on a seed pack?", "Why are my F1 plants not uniform?", "Why are F2 seeds so variable?", "How many generations to make a stable strain?", "Is an F2 the same as an S1?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-breeding-mendelian-genetics-for-growers", "kb-breeding-backcrossing-ibl-stabilisation", "kb-breeding-s1-selfing", "kb-breeding-inbreeding-depression-hybrid-vigour", "kb-breeding-polyhybrids-vs-landraces" ], "sources_count": 5, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-breeding-feminised-seed-sex-reversal", "title": "Feminised seed and sex reversal: methods, with safety notes", "category": "breeding", "category_name": "Breeding", "slug": "feminised-seed-sex-reversal", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/breeding/feminised-seed-sex-reversal.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/breeding/feminised-seed-sex-reversal.md", "summary": "Feminised seed is made by forcing a genetic female to grow male flowers, then using that pollen on another (or the same) female. Silver ions block ethylene action; silver thiosulfate (STS) sprayed at about 3 mM silver was the most effective treatment in a controlled hemp study, and colloidal silver also works. Silver compounds are hazardous: wear gloves and eye protection, never consume treated plants, and dispose of waste as hazardous. Careless feminising (unproven donors, stress-herm pollen) is a main source of herm-prone seed; reverse only females proven stable over at least two runs.", "tags": [ "feminised", "sex-reversal", "silver-thiosulfate", "STS", "colloidal-silver", "reversed-female", "ethylene", "safety", "hermaphrodite", "breeding-ethics" ], "stage": [ "veg", "transition", "flower" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "level": "breeder", "qa": [ "How are feminised seeds made?", "How do I make silver thiosulfate for reversing cannabis?", "Colloidal silver or STS for feminised seeds?", "When should I spray STS?", "Is reversed pollen safe? Can I smoke a reversed plant?", "Why do some feminised seeds turn out hermaphrodite?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-breeding-s1-selfing", "kb-breeding-pollination-seed-production", "kb-breeding-pollen-collection-storage", "kb-basics-sex-male-female-hermaphrodite", "kb-basics-seed-types-regular-feminised-auto-clone", "kb-diagnosis-hermaphrodites" ], "sources_count": 6, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-breeding-genotyping-what-tests-prove", "title": "Genotyping: what a DNA test can and can't prove", "category": "breeding", "category_name": "Breeding", "slug": "genotyping-what-tests-prove", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/breeding/genotyping-what-tests-prove.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/breeding/genotyping-what-tests-prove.md", "summary": "A DNA test can reliably show whether two samples are the same genotype, rule out a claimed parent (exclusion), support a parent-child relationship when both parents are sampled, predict sex and chemotype class from seedlings, and place a plant on a map of genetic groups. It cannot prove a 40-year-old pedigree from a name, measure THC %, tell you a plant's 'indica percentage', or guarantee how it will grow.", "tags": [ "genotyping", "DNA-test", "SNP", "microsatellite", "parentage", "fingerprint", "sex-test", "chemotype-marker", "L4" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "breeder", "qa": [ "Can a DNA test prove my strain's lineage?", "Can genetics tests tell if two clones are the same?", "What does a cannabis genotype report show?", "Can DNA tell me the THC percentage?", "Is a sativa/indica percentage from a DNA test real?", "What do I need for an L4 lineage confirmation?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-breeding-documenting-lineage-evidence", "kb-breeding-clone-only-preservation", "kb-breeding-chemotype-inheritance", "kb-genetics-history-why-strain-names-are-unreliable" ], "sources_count": 7, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-breeding-documenting-lineage-evidence", "title": "How to document lineage evidence (GB-ID evidence levels L0-L4)", "category": "breeding", "category_name": "Breeding", "slug": "documenting-lineage-evidence", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/breeding/documenting-lineage-evidence.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/breeding/documenting-lineage-evidence.md", "summary": "On GenetixBay every parentage statement is a claim with an evidence level: L0 unverified, L1 community reported with a source, L2 breeder reported, L3 documented by an accepted GB-DOC, L4 lab-confirmed by a genomic report consistent with the parent-child relationship. Breeders raise the level by attaching dated, original evidence and, where possible, by recording crosses on the platform as they happen.", "tags": [ "lineage", "provenance", "evidence-levels", "GB-ID", "GB-DOC", "claims", "pedigree", "archivist", "disputes" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "breeder", "qa": [ "How do I prove the lineage of my strain?", "What are GenetixBay evidence levels?", "What documents count as lineage evidence?", "How do I get my cross to L3 or L4?", "What is a witnessed lineage?", "How are lineage disputes handled?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-breeding-record-keeping-naming-ethics", "kb-breeding-genotyping-what-tests-prove", "kb-genetics-history-why-strain-names-are-unreliable", "kb-genetics-history-how-hybrid-strains-emerged" ], "sources_count": 5, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-breeding-inbreeding-depression-hybrid-vigour", "title": "Inbreeding depression and hybrid vigour", "category": "breeding", "category_name": "Breeding", "slug": "inbreeding-depression-hybrid-vigour", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/breeding/inbreeding-depression-hybrid-vigour.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/breeding/inbreeding-depression-hybrid-vigour.md", "summary": "Inbreeding makes hidden harmful recessive alleles homozygous, so inbred plants often lose vigour, yield and fertility (inbreeding depression). Crossing unrelated lines masks those alleles and can push F1s above both parents (hybrid vigour, or heterosis). The vigour fades in the F2 because the masking breaks down as genes segregate.", "tags": [ "inbreeding-depression", "heterosis", "hybrid-vigour", "F1", "effective-population-size", "purging" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "level": "breeder", "qa": [ "What is inbreeding depression in cannabis?", "Why are my F2 or S1 plants weaker?", "What is hybrid vigour?", "Why are F1 hybrids so vigorous?", "How do I avoid inbreeding depression when stabilising a line?", "Does hybrid vigour carry on into the next generation?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-breeding-s1-selfing", "kb-diagnosis-hermaphrodites", "kb-breeding-f1-f2-f3-explained", "kb-breeding-backcrossing-ibl-stabilisation", "kb-breeding-polyhybrids-vs-landraces", "kb-breeding-quantitative-traits-heritability" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-breeding-mendelian-genetics-for-growers", "title": "Mendelian genetics for growers, with Punnett squares", "category": "breeding", "category_name": "Breeding", "slug": "mendelian-genetics-for-growers", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/breeding/mendelian-genetics-for-growers.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/breeding/mendelian-genetics-for-growers.md", "summary": "Traits controlled by one gene follow Mendel's rules: each parent passes one of its two alleles at random, so a cross of two heterozygotes gives a 1:2:1 genotype ratio and, for a dominant trait, a 3:1 look. In cannabis the clearest single-gene examples are autoflowering (recessive) and the THC/CBD chemotype switch (close to codominant).", "tags": [ "mendel", "punnett-square", "dominant", "recessive", "codominant", "segregation", "independent-assortment", "linkage" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "How do Punnett squares work for cannabis?", "What does 3:1 ratio mean?", "What is dominant and recessive in cannabis?", "How many plants do I need to find a recessive trait?", "Why don't my F2 ratios match the textbook?", "What is linkage?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-breeding-quantitative-traits-heritability", "kb-breeding-chemotype-inheritance", "kb-basics-photoperiod-vs-autoflower", "kb-breeding-f1-f2-f3-explained", "kb-breeding-selection-pheno-hunting" ], "sources_count": 5, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-breeding-pollination-seed-production", "title": "Pollination and seed production, step by step", "category": "breeding", "category_name": "Breeding", "slug": "pollination-seed-production", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/breeding/pollination-seed-production.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/breeding/pollination-seed-production.md", "summary": "Pollinate females about 2-4 weeks into flower when stigmas are white and receptive, using fresh or stored pollen applied with a brush or bag to marked branches; seeds mature in roughly 5-7 weeks. Isolation is everything: pollen travels on air, clothing and fans, so a planned cross needs a separate space or strict bagging, and every pollination gets a dated record.", "tags": [ "pollination", "seed-production", "isolation", "branch-pollination", "seed-maturity", "harvest-seed" ], "stage": [ "flower", "ripen", "harvest" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "When should I pollinate my cannabis plant?", "How long do cannabis seeds take to mature after pollination?", "How do I pollinate just one branch?", "How do I stop pollen from getting everywhere?", "How do I know seeds are ripe?", "How many seeds does one plant make?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-breeding-s1-selfing", "kb-breeding-pollen-collection-storage", "kb-breeding-feminised-seed-sex-reversal", "kb-breeding-seed-germination-testing-qc", "kb-breeding-record-keeping-naming-ethics", "kb-basics-sex-male-female-hermaphrodite" ], "sources_count": 5, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-breeding-polyhybrids-vs-landraces", "title": "Polyhybrids vs landraces: what each gives a breeder", "category": "breeding", "category_name": "Breeding", "slug": "polyhybrids-vs-landraces", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/breeding/polyhybrids-vs-landraces.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/breeding/polyhybrids-vs-landraces.md", "summary": "A landrace is a locally adapted, farmer-maintained population with a regional history; it is variable but coherent, and a reservoir of diversity. A polyhybrid is a modern line with many ancestors from different gene pools; it can be highly productive but is heterozygous and segregates unpredictably. Breeders use landraces as sources of new traits and polyhybrids as elite starting material.", "tags": [ "landrace", "polyhybrid", "heirloom", "genetic-diversity", "preservation", "open-pollinated" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "advanced", "qa": [ "What is a landrace strain?", "What is a polyhybrid?", "Are landraces more stable than hybrids?", "Why are my polyhybrid seeds so variable?", "How should a landrace be preserved?", "Is an heirloom the same as a landrace?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-genetics-history-landraces-of-the-world", "kb-genetics-history-how-hybrid-strains-emerged", "kb-breeding-f1-f2-f3-explained", "kb-breeding-inbreeding-depression-hybrid-vigour" ], "sources_count": 6, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-breeding-quantitative-traits-heritability", "title": "Quantitative traits and heritability: why most good traits are hard to fix", "category": "breeding", "category_name": "Breeding", "slug": "quantitative-traits-heritability", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/breeding/quantitative-traits-heritability.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/breeding/quantitative-traits-heritability.md", "summary": "Yield, potency, terpene totals, vigour and flowering time are controlled by many genes plus environment. Heritability (the share of variation due to genes in a given population and setting) predicts how much of a selected plant's advantage passes to its offspring: response = heritability x selection differential. Cannabinoid ratios are highly heritable; absolute THC % and yield much less so.", "tags": [ "quantitative-traits", "heritability", "polygenic", "genotype-by-environment", "breeders-equation", "selection-response" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "level": "breeder", "qa": [ "What is heritability in plant breeding?", "Why don't the offspring of my best plant perform as well?", "Is THC percentage genetic or environmental?", "What is the breeder's equation?", "How do I reduce environmental noise in a pheno hunt?", "What is genotype by environment interaction?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-breeding-mendelian-genetics-for-growers", "kb-breeding-selection-pheno-hunting", "kb-breeding-chemotype-inheritance", "kb-breeding-inbreeding-depression-hybrid-vigour" ], "sources_count": 5, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-breeding-s1-selfing", "title": "S1s and selfing: what happens when a plant pollinates itself", "category": "breeding", "category_name": "Breeding", "slug": "s1-selfing", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/breeding/s1-selfing.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/breeding/s1-selfing.md", "summary": "An S1 is seed from a plant pollinated by its own pollen, usually by reversing one female clone or branch. S1s are feminised, and they are not copies of the parent: each S1 seed is a new genotype. Selfing halves heterozygosity per generation, reveals hidden recessives (good and bad), and is a fast way to test what a clone carries. Done carelessly, especially S1 on S1 from plants that herm, it is one of the main ways herm-prone lines are made; only self proven-stable females and cull every intersex offspring.", "tags": [ "S1", "selfing", "self-pollination", "recessive", "homozygosity", "feminised", "inbreeding", "hermaphrodite", "breeding-ethics" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "level": "breeder", "qa": [ "What is an S1 seed?", "Is an S1 a copy of the mother plant?", "Are S1 seeds feminised?", "Why are my S1s weaker than the clone?", "What is an S2?", "Should I make S1s of my keeper?", "Do S1 seeds turn hermaphrodite?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-breeding-feminised-seed-sex-reversal", "kb-breeding-f1-f2-f3-explained", "kb-breeding-inbreeding-depression-hybrid-vigour", "kb-breeding-clone-only-preservation", "kb-basics-sex-male-female-hermaphrodite", "kb-diagnosis-hermaphrodites" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-breeding-seed-germination-testing-qc", "title": "Seed germination testing and quality control for breeders", "category": "breeding", "category_name": "Breeding", "slug": "seed-germination-testing-qc", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/breeding/seed-germination-testing-qc.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/breeding/seed-germination-testing-qc.md", "summary": "Before seed leaves your hands, test it: germinate a random sample of at least 100 seeds (400 in four replicates is the lab standard) and count normal seedlings, not just cracked seeds. Report the result with the date on the batch record. Store seed cool and dry; one study recommended about 5 °C to keep germination for years.", "tags": [ "germination-test", "seed-quality", "viability", "tetrazolium", "seed-storage", "QC", "batch" ], "stage": [ "seedling" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "breeder", "qa": [ "How do I test cannabis seed germination rate?", "What is a good germination rate for cannabis seeds?", "How many seeds should I test?", "How should I store cannabis seeds?", "How long do cannabis seeds stay viable?", "What is a tetrazolium test?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-breeding-pollination-seed-production", "kb-breeding-record-keeping-naming-ethics", "kb-breeding-documenting-lineage-evidence", "kb-basics-seed-types-regular-feminised-auto-clone", "kb-germination-seed-viability-storage" ], "sources_count": 6, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-breeding-selection-pheno-hunting", "title": "Selection and pheno hunting: sample sizes and scoring rubrics", "category": "breeding", "category_name": "Breeding", "slug": "selection-pheno-hunting", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/breeding/selection-pheno-hunting.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/breeding/selection-pheno-hunting.md", "summary": "A pheno hunt is a selection experiment: grow enough seeds to have a real chance of finding what you want, clone every candidate before flowering, score each plant on a fixed weighted rubric, and re-grow the top few as clones before you call a keeper. The plants needed follow 1 - (1 - p)^n: a 1-in-10 type needs 29 plants for a 95% chance of seeing at least one. Sex stability is a gate: any plant that herms is culled, whatever else it scores.", "tags": [ "pheno-hunting", "selection", "sample-size", "scoring", "rubric", "keeper", "clones", "GB-IND", "hermaphrodite", "sex-stability" ], "stage": [ "veg", "flower", "harvest", "cure" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "advanced", "qa": [ "How many seeds should I pop for a pheno hunt?", "How do I pick a keeper?", "What should I score in a pheno hunt?", "Should I clone before flowering?", "How many times should I run a cut before deciding?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-diagnosis-hermaphrodites", "kb-breeding-quantitative-traits-heritability", "kb-breeding-mendelian-genetics-for-growers", "kb-breeding-f1-f2-f3-explained", "kb-breeding-record-keeping-naming-ethics", "kb-breeding-clone-only-preservation" ], "sources_count": 5, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-breeding-tissue-culture-basics", "title": "Tissue culture basics for cannabis growers and breeders", "category": "breeding", "category_name": "Breeding", "slug": "tissue-culture-basics", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/breeding/tissue-culture-basics.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/breeding/tissue-culture-basics.md", "summary": "Tissue culture grows small pieces of a plant (usually nodes or shoot tips) on a sterile gel medium, giving clean, compact, long-lived backups of clones and a route to cleaning up infected stock. Cannabis tissue culture works but is genotype dependent and poorly replicated in the literature; contamination control is the main skill.", "tags": [ "tissue-culture", "micropropagation", "meristem", "aseptic", "sterile", "DKW", "MS-medium", "acclimatisation" ], "stage": [ "veg" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "advanced", "qa": [ "What is cannabis tissue culture?", "Can I do tissue culture at home?", "Does tissue culture remove viroids?", "What medium is used for cannabis tissue culture?", "How long can a cannabis clone be kept in tissue culture?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-breeding-clone-only-preservation", "kb-breeding-genotyping-what-tests-prove", "kb-basics-seed-types-regular-feminised-auto-clone", "kb-diseases-hop-latent-viroid-and-viruses" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-genetics-history-craft-vs-industrial-cannabis", "title": "Craft vs industrial cannabis: did legalisation's commercial model hurt quality?", "category": "genetics-history", "category_name": "Genetics history", "slug": "craft-vs-industrial-cannabis", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/genetics-history/craft-vs-industrial-cannabis.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/genetics-history/craft-vs-industrial-cannabis.md", "summary": "The founder's opinion is that legalisation's commercial model hurt quality: small, careful growers were priced out by large facilities, and product is now grown to a price. The evidence supports parts of that. Wholesale prices fell by roughly 75-80 %, Oregon's flower is at its lowest price since legalisation, Washington lost about a third of its producer businesses from 2017 to 2023, California's licensed canopy is dominated by a few large farms, Canadian excise duty can take 30 % or more of a producer's gross revenue, and regulators have recalled legal product for mould and pesticides. But no data show the grey market was cleaner, and Health Canada's own testing found illegal flower far dirtier than legal flower. Craft vs industrial is the real fault line. Growing your own, where legal, is the surest way to control quality.", "tags": [ "craft", "legalisation", "consolidation", "small-growers", "recalls", "contamination", "pesticides", "aspergillus", "irradiation", "licensing", "excise", "price-collapse", "appellations", "grow-your-own" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "contested", "evidence_name": "Contested", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "Did legalisation make weed worse?", "Is craft cannabis better than commercial cannabis?", "Why are small cannabis farms going out of business?", "Is legal cannabis contaminated?", "Was grey-market weed better than legal weed?", "Why is legal weed so cheap now?", "How much does excise duty cost Canadian cannabis growers?", "What are cannabis appellations of origin?", "Is legal cannabis irradiated?" ], "myths": [ "Legal cannabis is clean because it's tested" ], "related": [ "kb-harvest-cure-irradiated-cannabis", "kb-genetics-history-why-everything-tastes-the-same", "kb-genetics-history-patents-and-the-gene-pool", "kb-basics-buyer-beware-label-claims", "kb-diseases-botrytis-bud-rot", "kb-basics-first-grow-guide" ], "sources_count": 18, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-genetics-history-how-hybrid-strains-emerged", "title": "How hybrid 'strains' emerged", "category": "genetics-history", "category_name": "Genetics history", "slug": "how-hybrid-strains-emerged", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/genetics-history/how-hybrid-strains-emerged.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/genetics-history/how-hybrid-strains-emerged.md", "summary": "Modern drug-type cannabis is mostly a mix of South Asian-derived long-flowering types and Central Asian (Afghan) hashish types, crossed from the 1970s onwards in North America, then distributed by Dutch seed companies from the mid-1980s, and multiplied into thousands of names in clone-driven and legal markets since the 1990s. The broad story is supported by genetics; most specific pedigrees are oral claims with conflicting versions.", "tags": [ "history", "hybrids", "1970s", "Afghani", "Skunk", "Haze", "Northern-Lights", "seed-banks", "Netherlands", "Kush", "CBD-introgression" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "contested", "evidence_name": "Contested", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "Where did modern cannabis strains come from?", "When did indica and sativa get crossed?", "What is the history of Skunk #1?", "Why did Dutch seed banks matter?", "Where did CBD strains come from?", "Are famous strain pedigrees true?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-genetics-history-landraces-of-the-world", "kb-genetics-history-why-strain-names-are-unreliable", "kb-breeding-polyhybrids-vs-landraces", "kb-breeding-documenting-lineage-evidence" ], "sources_count": 8, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-genetics-history-indica-sativa-ruderalis", "title": "Indica, sativa and ruderalis: what the names really mean", "category": "genetics-history", "category_name": "Genetics history", "slug": "indica-sativa-ruderalis", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/genetics-history/indica-sativa-ruderalis.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/genetics-history/indica-sativa-ruderalis.md", "summary": "Cannabis is one species, Cannabis sativa L., showing different phenotypes. Nearly everything grown today is a hybrid, with a few outlier landraces. Distinct groups, ruderalis included, may have existed long ago, but not today. As a guide to effects or species, indica vs sativa is nonsense: genetic and chemical studies show the labels don't match ancestry or predict chemistry. At most they describe plant shape: leaflet width, structure and flowering time.", "tags": [ "indica", "sativa", "ruderalis", "taxonomy", "species", "nomenclature", "Lamarck", "Linnaeus", "chemotype" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "Is indica a different species from sativa?", "What is Cannabis ruderalis?", "Why do botanists say sativa and indica are mixed up?", "What is the difference between indica and sativa genetically?", "Does indica mean sedating?", "Does sativa give you energy?", "Is everything a hybrid now?" ], "myths": [ "Indica = couch, sativa = energy, and they're different species" ], "related": [ "kb-basics-buyer-beware-label-claims", "kb-genetics-history-landraces-of-the-world", "kb-genetics-history-why-strain-names-are-unreliable", "kb-basics-photoperiod-vs-autoflower", "kb-basics-cannabis-plant-biology" ], "sources_count": 8, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-genetics-history-landrace-hunting-and-biopiracy", "title": "Landrace hunting or biopiracy? Benefit-sharing, consent and cannabis", "category": "genetics-history", "category_name": "Genetics history", "slug": "landrace-hunting-and-biopiracy", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/genetics-history/landrace-hunting-and-biopiracy.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/genetics-history/landrace-hunting-and-biopiracy.md", "summary": "International law says a country owns rights over its genetic resources: under the Convention on Biological Diversity (1992) and the Nagoya Protocol (in force 2014), anyone taking plant material for breeding or research needs prior informed consent and mutually agreed terms, including benefit-sharing. Cannabis falls through the cracks: it isn't in the Plant Treaty's crop list, it's still a Schedule I drug under the 1961 Single Convention, most seed was collected before these rules existed, and the US and Canada aren't Nagoya parties. Turmeric, neem, hoodia and rooibos show what credit and compensation look like when they're taken seriously. GenetixBay's position: credit the source region and community on every record, document provenance honestly with evidence levels, encourage benefit-sharing and fair practice, and reward returning value to source communities.", "tags": [ "landraces", "biopiracy", "benefit-sharing", "nagoya-protocol", "cbd", "prior-informed-consent", "traditional-knowledge", "plant-treaty", "dsi", "cali-fund", "credit", "preservation" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "What is biopiracy in cannabis?", "Is collecting landrace seed biopiracy?", "Does the Nagoya Protocol apply to cannabis?", "What is prior informed consent and benefit-sharing?", "Is Canada or the US a party to the Nagoya Protocol?", "Is cannabis covered by the Plant Treaty (ITPGRFA)?", "What is the Cali Fund?", "How should landrace seed be collected ethically?", "Should source communities be paid for landrace genetics?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-genetics-history-landraces-of-the-world", "kb-genetics-history-patents-and-the-gene-pool", "kb-genetics-history-why-everything-tastes-the-same", "kb-genetics-history-same-cut-a-thousand-names", "kb-breeding-documenting-lineage-evidence", "kb-breeding-polyhybrids-vs-landraces" ], "sources_count": 17, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-genetics-history-landraces-of-the-world", "title": "Landraces of the world: an overview", "category": "genetics-history", "category_name": "Genetics history", "slug": "landraces-of-the-world", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/genetics-history/landraces-of-the-world.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/genetics-history/landraces-of-the-world.md", "summary": "Drug-type cannabis landraces developed across South and Central Asia and were carried to Africa, the Middle East and the Americas, where local farmers adapted them over centuries. Genomic work points to an Asian origin of domestication (exact region contested). Many traditional landraces are now endangered by hybrid replacement, and most 'landrace' seed in commerce is better described as heirloom: collected at some point, then maintained elsewhere. Every origin story here is a claim; this article labels the evidence.", "tags": [ "landrace", "heritage", "Afghanistan", "Hindu-Kush", "India", "Thailand", "Colombia", "Mexico", "Jamaica", "Africa", "domestication", "conservation" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "What are the main cannabis landraces?", "Where did cannabis originate?", "What is an Afghani landrace?", "Are landraces still pure?", "Which landraces are sativa and which are indica?", "Are landrace seeds sold online real landraces?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-genetics-history-old-cannabis-was-not-weak", "kb-genetics-history-why-everything-tastes-the-same", "kb-genetics-history-patents-and-the-gene-pool", "kb-breeding-polyhybrids-vs-landraces", "kb-genetics-history-how-hybrid-strains-emerged", "kb-genetics-history-indica-sativa-ruderalis" ], "sources_count": 11, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-genetics-history-old-cannabis-was-not-weak", "title": "Old cannabis wasn't weak: the \"so much stronger than 20 years ago\" myth", "category": "genetics-history", "category_name": "Genetics history", "slug": "old-cannabis-was-not-weak", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/genetics-history/old-cannabis-was-not-weak.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/genetics-history/old-cannabis-was-not-weak.md", "summary": "\"Cannabis is far stronger than it used to be\" is false as a claim about the plant's genetics. Famous hashish, charas and sinsemilla traditions are centuries old and impossible with 5 % plants, and old seed grown well today still tests high. The 'weak old weed' numbers come from seized samples: mostly cheap compressed export brick of leaf, seed and stem, often stored for years before testing, measured with changing methods. The best of what source regions grew was rarely exported. What changed is the market and growing technique: fresh, seedless, indoor flower.", "tags": [ "potency", "history", "landraces", "hashish", "charas", "sinsemilla", "ganja", "kilobrick", "potency-monitoring", "thc-trends", "heirloom-seed", "export-market" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "myth", "evidence_name": "Myth", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "Is weed stronger now than in the 1970s?", "Was old cannabis really only 3–5 % THC?", "Why do studies say cannabis potency has increased?", "Are landrace strains weak?", "How strong was traditional hashish or charas?", "Is today's cannabis a different plant from what my parents smoked?", "What was Mexican brick weed?", "Why wasn't good sinsemilla exported in the 1970s?" ], "myths": [ "Cannabis is much stronger than it was 20 (or 50) years ago" ], "related": [ "kb-genetics-history-landraces-of-the-world", "kb-genetics-history-how-hybrid-strains-emerged", "kb-genetics-history-why-everything-tastes-the-same", "kb-basics-buyer-beware-label-claims", "kb-harvest-cure-long-term-storage", "kb-genetics-history-indica-sativa-ruderalis" ], "sources_count": 23, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-genetics-history-patents-and-the-gene-pool", "title": "Patents and the gene pool: who can own a cannabis plant?", "category": "genetics-history", "category_name": "Genetics history", "slug": "patents-and-the-gene-pool", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/genetics-history/patents-and-the-gene-pool.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/genetics-history/patents-and-the-gene-pool.md", "summary": "Cannabis can be protected by US utility patents (covering plants, traits, extracts and methods), plant patents (for asexually reproduced varieties) and plant variety protection certificates (for seed-propagated hemp, since 2019), plus plant breeders' rights in Canada and the EU. Grants are public record. Legal commentators worry that thin prior art and broad claims could fence off parts of a shared gene pool. The open responses are public, dated documentation: prior-art databases, open-source seed pledges and genotype registries. GenetixBay's answer is preservation, GB-ID documentation and open sharing.", "tags": [ "patents", "plant-patent", "utility-patent", "pvp", "plant-breeders-rights", "prior-art", "open-source-seed", "defensive-publication", "preservation", "commons" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "Can you patent a cannabis strain?", "Are there cannabis patents?", "What is a plant patent vs a utility patent?", "Can a patent stop me growing my own seeds?", "What is prior art for cannabis?", "How do I protect a landrace or heirloom from being patented?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-genetics-history-landraces-of-the-world", "kb-genetics-history-why-everything-tastes-the-same", "kb-breeding-documenting-lineage-evidence", "kb-breeding-record-keeping-naming-ethics", "kb-breeding-genotyping-what-tests-prove", "kb-breeding-clone-only-preservation" ], "sources_count": 11, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-genetics-history-same-cut-a-thousand-names", "title": "Same cut, a thousand names: renaming, relabelling and the shrinking gene pool", "category": "genetics-history", "category_name": "Genetics history", "slug": "same-cut-a-thousand-names", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/genetics-history/same-cut-a-thousand-names.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/genetics-history/same-cut-a-thousand-names.md", "summary": "Renaming clones, relabelling cuts and reusing famous names make the market look far more diverse than it is. Genetic studies find the same plant sold under different names and different plants sold under one name: in one study 35 % of comparisons put a sample closer to a differently named sample than to its namesakes, and in Nevada 637 recorded names (396 after cleaning) covered three chemical profiles. Hidden sameness makes breeders cross near-identical material while believing they're adding diversity. GenetixBay's answer is the GB-ID: a permanent record tied to the plant, its source and its evidence, not to its name.", "tags": [ "strain-names", "renaming", "relabelling", "clones", "cuts", "mislabelling", "genotyping", "diversity", "gene-pool", "gb-id" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "Are different strain names really different plants?", "Why do so many strains seem to be the same plant?", "Do growers rename clones?", "Is the same cut sold under different names?", "What studies show cannabis strains are mislabelled?", "How does renaming strains hurt cannabis genetic diversity?", "How can I tell if two strains are the same cut?", "What is a GB-ID?" ], "myths": [ "Different names mean different plants", "A new name means new genetics", "If it has the famous name, it's the famous cut" ], "related": [ "kb-genetics-history-why-everything-tastes-the-same", "kb-genetics-history-why-strain-names-are-unreliable", "kb-breeding-record-keeping-naming-ethics", "kb-breeding-genotyping-what-tests-prove", "kb-breeding-documenting-lineage-evidence", "kb-breeding-clone-only-preservation" ], "sources_count": 11, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-genetics-history-why-everything-tastes-the-same", "title": "Why everything tastes the same: the evidence that commercial cannabis is converging", "category": "genetics-history", "category_name": "Genetics history", "slug": "why-everything-tastes-the-same", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/genetics-history/why-everything-tastes-the-same.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/genetics-history/why-everything-tastes-the-same.md", "summary": "Growers keep saying modern weed all tastes the same, and the data back them up. A study of nearly 90,000 US lab results found THC-dominant flower falling into just three terpene groups, two of which held about 87 % of samples. Strain names and indica/sativa labels promise far more variety than the chemistry shows, traditional landraces in their home regions are being replaced by introduced hybrids, and retail prices rise with THC rather than aroma. GenetixBay's answer is preservation, documentation with GB-IDs, and open sharing of distinctive lines.", "tags": [ "terpenes", "chemotype", "chemovar", "diversity", "convergence", "landraces", "introgression", "genetic-erosion", "thc-selection", "preservation" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "intermediate", "qa": [ "Why does all modern weed taste the same?", "Are strains losing their diversity?", "What are the main terpene profiles in cannabis?", "Are landrace strains disappearing?", "Why does the market breed for THC instead of flavour?", "How can I find cannabis with a different terpene profile?", "What makes cannabis smell like gas?", "Why is every new strain gas or candy?", "Are the classic strains disappearing?" ], "myths": [], "related": [ "kb-genetics-history-same-cut-a-thousand-names", "kb-genetics-history-landraces-of-the-world", "kb-genetics-history-old-cannabis-was-not-weak", "kb-genetics-history-why-strain-names-are-unreliable", "kb-genetics-history-patents-and-the-gene-pool", "kb-genetics-history-indica-sativa-ruderalis" ], "sources_count": 14, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-genetics-history-why-strain-names-are-unreliable", "title": "Why strain names are unreliable: what genetic studies show", "category": "genetics-history", "category_name": "Genetics history", "slug": "why-strain-names-are-unreliable", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/genetics-history/why-strain-names-are-unreliable.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/genetics-history/why-strain-names-are-unreliable.md", "summary": "Several genetic and chemical studies of retail cannabis show that the same strain name often hides different genotypes, that 'indica' and 'sativa' labels don't match genome-wide ancestry, and that potency labels vary by lab. Some names are reasonably consistent, many are not. A name is a claim; a documented source, a GB-ID with evidence and, ultimately, DNA are the evidence.", "tags": [ "strain-names", "mislabelling", "genetics", "indica", "sativa", "chemotype", "terpenes", "consistency", "studies" ], "stage": [ "any" ], "systems": [ "any" ], "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "level": "beginner", "qa": [ "Are cannabis strain names accurate?", "Is my Blue Dream the same as someone else's?", "Do indica and sativa labels mean anything?", "Why does the same strain test differently?", "What studies show strain names are unreliable?", "How can I trust a strain name?" ], "myths": [ "A strain name tells you what genetics you're getting" ], "related": [ "kb-basics-buyer-beware-label-claims", "kb-genetics-history-how-hybrid-strains-emerged", "kb-genetics-history-indica-sativa-ruderalis", "kb-breeding-genotyping-what-tests-prove", "kb-breeding-documenting-lineage-evidence", "kb-breeding-record-keeping-naming-ethics" ], "sources_count": 7, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" } ], "diagnosis_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/api/diagnosis.json", "symptom_checker_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/diagnose/", "answers_count": 164, "answers_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/api/answers.json", "answers": [ { "id": "kb-answers-12-12-from-seed", "question": "Can I flower a photoperiod plant 12/12 from seed?", "phrasings": [ "12/12 from seed", "Flowering from seed", "Can I skip veg?", "Running photoperiods on 12/12 from day one" ], "topic": "basics", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "Yes, a photoperiod plant can be grown 12/12 from seed, but it won't flower straight away: it first has to mature, forming its first single flowers at around the 7th node, typically after 3–5 weeks. The result is a short plant with one main cola, ready in roughly 3 months. It suits low headroom or many small plants, but per plant it yields less than a vegged plant.", "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "parent": "kb-environment-photoperiod-light-leaks", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/12-12-from-seed.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/12-12-from-seed.md", "qa": [ "Why doesn't a seedling flower immediately on 12/12?", "Is 12/12 from seed better than autoflowers?", "Does 12/12 from seed help sex plants early?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-algae-in-reservoir", "question": "How do I stop algae in my reservoir or on my medium?", "phrasings": [ "Green algae in my reservoir", "Algae growing on top of my coco", "Is algae caused by a light leak into the res?", "How to get rid of algae in hydro" ], "topic": "diseases", "intent": "troubleshooting", "answer": "Algae in a cannabis reservoir or on the medium means light is reaching wet, nutrient-rich surfaces. Stop it by keeping light out: opaque reservoirs and lids, no gaps around net pots, covered tubing, and a dry or covered top layer on coco and rockwool. Keep the solution at 18–22 °C (64–72 °F). Scrub and disinfect between runs. Algicides and routine peroxide are not the fix.", "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "parent": "kb-systems-dwc", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/algae-in-reservoir.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/algae-in-reservoir.md", "qa": [ "Is algae harmful to cannabis roots?", "Should I add hydrogen peroxide to kill algae?", "Why is my coco turning green on top?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-ammonia-smell-in-jars", "question": "Why do my curing jars smell like ammonia?", "phrasings": [ "Why does my weed smell like ammonia?", "My jar smells like pee", "Sour or musty smell during the cure", "Ammonia smell when burping jars" ], "topic": "harvest-cure", "intent": "troubleshooting", "answer": "An ammonia or musty smell in a curing jar means the buds went in too wet and microbes are starting to break them down, a step before visible mould. Act at once: tip the buds out, check the cores for rot, and spread them on a screen to dry until a sealed sample reads a stable 58–65% RH. Burping more often alone won't fix it.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-harvest-cure-curing-burping", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/ammonia-smell-in-jars.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/ammonia-smell-in-jars.md", "qa": [ "Is ammonia-smelling weed safe to smoke?", "Will the ammonia smell go away?", "How do I stop jars smelling of ammonia next time?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-autoflowers-outdoors", "question": "Can I grow autoflowers outdoors?", "phrasings": [ "Growing autos outdoors", "When to plant autoflowers outside", "Can I get two autoflower harvests in one summer?", "Autoflower outdoor season", "Are autoflowers good for a short outdoor season?" ], "topic": "outdoor", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "Yes: autoflowers grow well outdoors because they flower by age, not day length, finishing about 9–14 weeks from seed. Sow straight into the final container or bed once nights stay above about 10 °C (50 °F). At mid-latitudes a late-spring sowing finishes in mid to late summer, and a second sowing by early summer can finish before autumn rain. Any setback costs yield: no transplanting, LST instead of topping.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-basics-photoperiod-vs-autoflower", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/autoflowers-outdoors.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/autoflowers-outdoors.md", "qa": [ "Can I get two autoflower harvests outdoors in one season?", "Should I top outdoor autoflowers?", "What size container for outdoor autoflowers?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-autos-and-photos-in-one-tent", "question": "Can I grow autoflowers and photoperiods in the same tent?", "phrasings": [ "Mixing autos and photos", "Auto and photo together in one tent", "Autos in a 12/12 tent", "Can I grow autos on 12/12?" ], "topic": "basics", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "You can grow autoflowers and photoperiods in the same tent, but one schedule must lose. On 18/6 to 20/4 the autos thrive and the photos stay in veg; on 12/12 the photos flower and the autos lose about a third of their daily light, and yield with it. The best plan is to veg photos alongside autos, then flip after the autos are harvested, or use two spaces.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-basics-photoperiod-vs-autoflower", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/autos-and-photos-in-one-tent.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/autos-and-photos-in-one-tent.md", "qa": [ "Can I grow autos on 12/12?", "What is the best way to mix autos and photos?", "Will an autoflower mess up my photoperiods?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-best-medium-for-rooting-clones", "question": "What is the best medium for rooting clones?", "phrasings": [ "Rockwool vs plugs for clones", "Can I root clones in soil?", "Aero cloner vs cubes", "Best cloning medium" ], "topic": "cloning", "intent": "comparison", "answer": "There's no single best medium for rooting cannabis clones; the best is the one that stays moist while holding plenty of air. Studies disagree: rockwool rooted best (up to 80%) in one hemp trial, but worst (0% at 9 days) when kept at full water capacity in another, where a 50:50 peat-perlite mix won. Rockwool, peat or coco plugs and aeroponic cloners all work if not waterlogged.", "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "parent": "kb-breeding-clone-only-preservation", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/best-medium-for-rooting-clones.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/best-medium-for-rooting-clones.md", "qa": [ "Is rockwool good for clones?", "Can I root clones directly in soil?", "Is an aeroponic cloner better than plugs?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-best-pot-size-for-autoflowers", "question": "What pot size is best for autoflowers?", "phrasings": [ "Best pot for autos", "3 gallon or 5 gallon for an autoflower?", "Autoflower container size", "Can I grow an auto in a small pot?" ], "topic": "basics", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "For autoflowers, an 11–15 L (3–4 gal) pot is the usual final pot, and up to 19 L (5 gal) is forgiving for a first grow. Sow the seed straight into it and don't transplant. Bigger pots give bigger plants within reason, but pot size trades against feeding frequency: small pots can still grow big autos if you water and feed often.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-germination-transplanting", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/best-pot-size-for-autoflowers.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/best-pot-size-for-autoflowers.md", "qa": [ "Is 3 gallons or 5 gallons better for an autoflower?", "Can I start an autoflower in a solo cup?", "Do bigger pots mean bigger yields?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-best-soil-for-cannabis", "question": "What soil should I use for growing cannabis?", "phrasings": [ "What is the best soil mix for cannabis?", "Can I use normal potting soil for weed?", "Do I need perlite in soil?", "Can I use hydro nutrients in soil?", "Can I use garden soil in pots?" ], "topic": "systems", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "The best soil for growing cannabis indoors is a quality bagged potting mix, peat- or coco-based with compost and a light starter fertiliser, opened up with 20–35% perlite or pumice. Never use garden soil in pots. The starter charge feeds for 2–4 weeks; after that, feed at EC 0.8–1.6 mS/cm with water at pH 6.2–6.8.", "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "parent": "kb-systems-soil", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/best-soil-for-cannabis.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/best-soil-for-cannabis.md", "qa": [ "Do I need to add perlite to potting soil?", "Can I use hydro nutrients in soil?", "Can I use garden soil for cannabis in pots?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-blurple-vs-white-led", "question": "Are purple (blurple) LEDs as good as white LEDs?", "phrasings": [ "Blurple vs full-spectrum white LED", "Are red and blue LEDs good for cannabis?", "White LED vs purple LED for growing", "Is green light wasted on plants?" ], "topic": "environment", "intent": "comparison", "answer": "Purple (blurple) LEDs grow cannabis about as well as white LEDs at the same PPFD, because photon quantity and efficacy matter far more than colour. White LEDs win in practice: green light reaches lower leaves, you can see deficiencies and pests, and good white fixtures exceed 2.5–3 µmol/J. Judge any LED by its measured PPFD and µmol/J, not its colour.", "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "parent": "kb-environment-light-spectrum", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/blurple-vs-white-led.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/blurple-vs-white-led.md", "qa": [ "Is green light wasted on cannabis?", "Why do purple grow lights make it hard to see problems?", "Do I need more red light for flowering?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-buds-lost-their-smell", "question": "Why did my buds lose their smell?", "phrasings": [ "Why don't my buds smell?", "No smell after the cure", "My terpenes faded", "Buds smelled great on the plant but not now" ], "topic": "harvest-cure", "intent": "troubleshooting", "answer": "Buds lose their smell mostly because volatile terpenes escaped during a fast, warm or over-dry dry, and then during storage in warmth, light or air. Humidity packs and frequent jar opening make it worse. The aroma doesn't come back: a cure never fixes a bad dry. Next time, dry for 7–14 days at 15–21 °C and 55–62% RH and keep buds at water activity 0.55–0.65.", "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "parent": "kb-harvest-cure-curing-burping", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/buds-lost-their-smell.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/buds-lost-their-smell.md", "qa": [ "Can I bring the smell back to my buds?", "Do humidity packs make buds lose smell?", "Why did my buds smell strong on the plant but weak after drying?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-calibrate-a-hygrometer", "question": "How do I check if my hygrometer is accurate?", "phrasings": [ "How do I do a salt test on a hygrometer?", "Hygrometer calibration for a grow tent", "My humidity reading seems wrong", "Why do my two hygrometers disagree?" ], "topic": "environment", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "Check a hygrometer with a salt test: seal it for 12–24 hours in a bag or jar with a damp slurry of table salt, which holds air at about 75 % RH at room temperature. Note how far it reads off and correct for that. For a second point, magnesium chloride gives about 33 %. Cheap sensors drift 3–5 % RH, enough to mislead VPD and bud-rot decisions.", "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "parent": "kb-environment-humidity-by-stage", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/calibrate-a-hygrometer.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/calibrate-a-hygrometer.md", "qa": [ "How do I do a hygrometer salt test?", "How accurate are cheap hygrometers?", "Why do my two hygrometers show different readings?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-can-i-clone-a-flowering-plant", "question": "Can I take clones from a flowering plant?", "phrasings": [ "Can I clone a plant in flower?", "Re-veg clone from a flowering plant", "Will a flowering cutting root?", "What is monster cropping?" ], "topic": "cloning", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "Yes. You can clone a flowering cannabis plant (monster cropping), but expect slower rooting, often 2–4 weeks, and a further 2–6 weeks of odd, single-bladed regrowth while the cutting re-vegs under 18–24 hours of light. Success is best from the first 2–3 weeks of flower, using lower branches with little bud. It's a rescue method; cloning before the flip is far easier.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-breeding-clone-only-preservation", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/can-i-clone-a-flowering-plant.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/can-i-clone-a-flowering-plant.md", "qa": [ "What is monster cropping?", "How late in flower can I take a cutting?", "Why does my flowering clone have single-finger leaves?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-can-i-defoliate-autoflowers", "question": "Can I defoliate autoflowers?", "phrasings": [ "Should I defoliate my autos?", "Can I strip autoflower leaves?", "Is lollipopping autoflowers a good idea?", "Can I schwazz an autoflower?" ], "topic": "training", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "You can defoliate autoflowers, but only lightly, and GenetixBay advises tucking instead. An autoflower runs on a fixed countdown of about 9–14 weeks from germination, so any setback costs yield it can't recover. Tuck fan leaves away from bud sites, remove only damaged, dying or soil-touching leaves, take no more than a few at a time, and never schwazz an auto.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-training-defoliation-lollipopping", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/can-i-defoliate-autoflowers.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/can-i-defoliate-autoflowers.md", "qa": [ "Should I lollipop autoflowers?", "Why are autoflowers more sensitive to defoliation?", "What training is best for autoflowers?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-can-i-dry-in-my-grow-tent", "question": "Can I dry my buds in my grow tent?", "phrasings": [ "Can I dry weed in my grow tent?", "How to set up a tent for drying", "Drying in the grow room after harvest", "Should I turn the light off to dry in the tent?" ], "topic": "harvest-cure", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "Yes, a grow tent makes a good drying space once the plants are out and the light is off. Keep it dark, at 15–21 °C (60–70 °F) and 55–62% RH, with the exhaust on low and a fan moving room air, not blowing on the buds. Never dry in a tent with the grow light or heat running, or alongside live plants. Expect 7–14 days.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-harvest-cure-drying", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/can-i-dry-in-my-grow-tent.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/can-i-dry-in-my-grow-tent.md", "qa": [ "Should the exhaust fan run while drying in a tent?", "Can I dry in the tent while other plants are growing?", "What if my tent's humidity is too low for drying?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-can-i-grow-bag-seed", "question": "Can I grow seeds I found in my weed?", "phrasings": [ "Is bag seed worth growing?", "Growing bagseed", "Seeds found in bud", "Will seeds from my weed be female?" ], "topic": "basics", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "You can grow seeds found in your weed, but bag seed is a gamble. Seed in sinsemilla bud often comes from a plant that hermed and pollinated itself, so it tends to be nearly all female and to pass the herm tendency on. Its parents, sex and flowering time are unknown. It is fine for practice; for a real grow, buy documented seed. Check local seed rules first.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-basics-seed-types-regular-feminised-auto-clone", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/can-i-grow-bag-seed.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/can-i-grow-bag-seed.md", "qa": [ "Will bag seed be female?", "Is bag seed good for a first grow?", "Are seeds from a hermie plant worth keeping?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-can-i-grow-in-a-closet", "question": "Can I grow cannabis in a closet or cupboard?", "phrasings": [ "Closet grow setup", "Cabinet grow", "Small space grow setup", "Can I grow weed in a wardrobe?" ], "topic": "basics", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "Yes, you can grow cannabis in a closet or cupboard if it can be made light-tight, ventilated and safely powered. A space about 60 x 60 cm (2 x 2 ft) and 140–180 cm tall suits one or two plants under a 100–150 W efficient LED, with an extractor fan changing the air about once a minute through a carbon filter. Check local rules first.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-systems-choosing-a-system", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/can-i-grow-in-a-closet.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/can-i-grow-in-a-closet.md", "qa": [ "Is a grow tent better than a closet?", "How do I ventilate a closet grow?", "What plants suit a small closet?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-can-i-grow-with-household-bulbs", "question": "Can I grow cannabis with household LED or CFL bulbs?", "phrasings": [ "Can I grow weed with regular light bulbs?", "Growing cannabis with CFLs", "Can I use a normal LED bulb for plants?", "Cheapest light to grow one plant" ], "topic": "environment", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "You can keep seedlings and clones alive under household LED or CFL bulbs, but you can't grow good flower with them. Seedlings need about 150–300 µmol/m²/s; flower wants 600–1,200 µmol/m²/s over the whole canopy, which takes roughly 25–40 W of efficient horticultural LED per square foot. A handful of household bulbs delivers a fraction of that, so yields are small and buds airy.", "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "parent": "kb-environment-ppfd-dli-by-stage", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/can-i-grow-with-household-bulbs.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/can-i-grow-with-household-bulbs.md", "qa": [ "Can I flower cannabis under CFLs?", "Are household bulbs fine for seedlings and clones?", "What is the cheapest light that actually works for one plant?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-can-i-mix-soil-and-coco", "question": "Can I mix soil and coco?", "phrasings": [ "Can I mix coco into potting soil?", "Is a 50/50 coco soil mix good?", "Soil and coco mix for cannabis", "Do I feed a coco soil mix like soil or coco?" ], "topic": "systems", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "Yes, you can mix soil and coco: adding buffered coco to potting mix lightens it, holds water well and stays airy. Decide which system the blend behaves like. Mostly soil (coco 50% or less): water at pH 6.2–6.8 and feed at soil strength. Mostly coco: run pH 5.8–6.2 and feed every watering. Use washed, buffered coco or it will grab calcium and magnesium.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-systems-coco", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/can-i-mix-soil-and-coco.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/can-i-mix-soil-and-coco.md", "qa": [ "Should I pH a coco soil mix like soil or coco?", "Does coco in soil cause calcium deficiency?", "Is coco better than perlite for lightening soil?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-can-i-reuse-soil", "question": "Can I reuse soil from my last grow?", "phrasings": [ "Can I reuse potting soil for cannabis?", "How do I recycle old grow soil?", "How do I amend old soil for the next run?", "Can I reuse coco coir?" ], "topic": "systems", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "Yes, you can reuse soil from your last grow if the plants were healthy. Break up the root ball, add fresh compost or worm castings, slow-release organic amendments and perlite, then keep it moist for 2–4 weeks before planting. Don't reuse soil from plants with root rot, wilt or root pests. Coco can be rinsed and re-buffered; living soil is reused in place, no-till.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-systems-soil", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/can-i-reuse-soil.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/can-i-reuse-soil.md", "qa": [ "Do I need to sterilise old soil before reusing it?", "Can I reuse soil from plants with root rot or pests?", "Can I reuse coco coir?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-can-i-use-distilled-water", "question": "Can I use distilled water or rainwater for cannabis?", "phrasings": [ "Is distilled water good for plants?", "Can I use rainwater for weed?", "Can I use bottled water for plants?", "Is RO water better than tap water?", "Do I need Cal-Mag with distilled water?" ], "topic": "ph-ec", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "Yes. Distilled, RO and clean rainwater work well for cannabis because they start near EC 0 with no sodium, chloride or alkalinity, but they also carry no calcium or magnesium and no pH buffer. Add a complete feed that includes Ca and Mg, or a Cal-Mag supplement, to reach about 150-200 mg/L Ca and 40-70 mg/L Mg, and expect pH to swing easily. Rain is naturally about pH 5.6.", "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "parent": "kb-ph-ec-water-quality", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/can-i-use-distilled-water.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/can-i-use-distilled-water.md", "qa": [ "Do I need Cal-Mag with RO or distilled water?", "Is rainwater safe for cannabis?", "Can I use bottled spring or mineral water?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-can-you-clone-autoflowers", "question": "Can you clone an autoflower?", "phrasings": [ "Cloning autos", "Do autoflower clones work?", "Can I take cuttings from an autoflower?", "Can you keep an autoflower mother?" ], "topic": "basics", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "You can root a cutting from an autoflower, but it is impractical. The clone keeps flowering on its parent's age-based clock, so it starts flowering while it is still rooting and finishes tiny, often only a few grams. An autoflower also can't be kept as a mother. To repeat a good auto, grow its seed again, or breed from it.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-basics-photoperiod-vs-autoflower", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/can-you-clone-autoflowers.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/can-you-clone-autoflowers.md", "qa": [ "Why don't autoflower clones get big?", "Can I keep an autoflower as a mother plant?", "How do I keep a great autoflower going?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-can-you-smoke-a-hermie", "question": "Can you smoke buds from a hermaphrodite plant?", "phrasings": [ "Can I smoke a hermie?", "Is hermie weed OK to use?", "Does a herm ruin bud quality?", "Are seeded buds safe?" ], "topic": "diagnosis", "intent": "troubleshooting", "answer": "Yes, buds from a hermaphrodite plant can be used if they are free of mould. The herm doesn't make them unsafe, but if they were pollinated, seed formation lowers quality and seeds need picking out. Finish or harvest the plant, pick out the seeds, check the buds for rot, and never keep the plant as a mother or grow its seeds. A herm is a genetic defect to cull.", "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "parent": "kb-diagnosis-hermaphrodites", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/can-you-smoke-a-hermie.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/can-you-smoke-a-hermie.md", "qa": [ "Are seeded buds weaker?", "Should I harvest a hermie early?", "Do herm buds give a different effect?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-coco-perlite-ratio", "question": "What coco to perlite ratio should I use?", "phrasings": [ "What coco perlite mix should I use?", "Is 70/30 coco perlite right?", "Do I need perlite in coco?", "How much perlite to add to coco coir?" ], "topic": "systems", "intent": "numbers", "answer": "The usual coco to perlite ratio is 70:30 for hand-watered pots. Coco takes 0–30% perlite: hand watering once a day or less suits 20–30% perlite for extra air and margin, while automated high-frequency drip can run 0–20% or plain coco. More perlite means more air, faster drying and more irrigations; less perlite holds more water.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-systems-coco", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/coco-perlite-ratio.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/coco-perlite-ratio.md", "qa": [ "Can I use coco without perlite?", "Is 50/50 coco perlite too much?", "Should I rinse perlite before mixing it with coco?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-do-clones-need-nutrients", "question": "Do clones need nutrients before they root?", "phrasings": [ "Should I feed my clones?", "Nutrients for cuttings", "What EC for clones?", "What EC for seedlings and clones?" ], "topic": "cloning", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "No. Unrooted cannabis clones don't need nutrients: they live on reserves in their stem and leaves, and plain water or a very weak solution (EC up to about 0.4 mS/cm, 200 ppm500) is enough. Strong feed can burn the cut stem. Once roots show, feed rooted clones and seedlings at a quarter to half strength, EC 0.4–0.8 mS/cm (200–400 ppm500).", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-breeding-clone-only-preservation", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/do-clones-need-nutrients.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/do-clones-need-nutrients.md", "qa": [ "What EC for seedlings and clones?", "Should I foliar feed clones?", "What pH for clone plugs?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-do-damaged-leaves-recover", "question": "Will damaged leaves recover after I fix the problem?", "phrasings": [ "Do yellow leaves turn green again?", "Do burnt leaves recover?", "Should I remove damaged leaves?", "How many leaves can I remove?", "How do I know my fix worked?" ], "topic": "nutrients", "intent": "troubleshooting", "answer": "Mostly no. Brown, burnt or dead leaf tissue never recovers, and badly yellowed leaves rarely regreen; only mildly pale leaves may partly recover once the nutrient is back. Judge your fix on new growth, which should look healthy within about 5-10 days. Leave damaged leaves that are still mostly green, because they still photosynthesise. Remove only leaves that are mostly dead, diseased, or shading nothing useful.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-nutrients-mobile-vs-immobile-nutrients", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/do-damaged-leaves-recover.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/do-damaged-leaves-recover.md", "qa": [ "Should I remove damaged leaves?", "How many leaves can I remove?", "How do I know my fix worked?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-do-floating-seeds-mean-duds", "question": "Do seeds that float mean they are duds?", "phrasings": [ "Does the float test work for seeds?", "My seeds are floating, are they dead?", "Sink or float: which seeds are good?", "Should I throw away seeds that float?" ], "topic": "germination", "intent": "myth", "answer": "No. A cannabis seed that floats is not necessarily a dud; the float test is unreliable because it mostly measures air trapped in or on the shell, and many floaters sink within a few hours and germinate normally. The only reliable check is a germination test: 10 seeds on a damp towel at 22–26 °C (72–79 °F) in the dark for 7 days.", "evidence": "myth", "evidence_name": "Myth", "parent": "kb-germination-germination-methods", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/do-floating-seeds-mean-duds.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/do-floating-seeds-mean-duds.md", "qa": [ "How do I test if my seeds are viable?", "Should I soak seeds before planting?", "Do dark seeds germinate better than pale ones?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-do-i-need-an-intake-fan", "question": "Do I need an intake fan or is passive intake enough?", "phrasings": [ "Is passive intake enough for a grow tent?", "How do I get negative pressure in a tent?", "Do I need an intake fan?", "Tent walls sucking in too much" ], "topic": "environment", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "Passive intake is enough for most grow tents: an exhaust fan pulls air out and low, open intake ports let fresh air in, keeping the tent under slight negative pressure so smell can't escape. Make the open intake area about 2–3 times the exhaust duct area. Add an intake fan only for big rooms or long intake runs, and keep it weaker than the exhaust.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-environment-airflow", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/do-i-need-an-intake-fan.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/do-i-need-an-intake-fan.md", "qa": [ "How big should passive intake be?", "Should my tent walls bow in?", "When do I need an intake fan?" ], "sources_count": 2, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-do-i-need-rooting-hormone", "question": "Do I need rooting hormone for clones?", "phrasings": [ "Do I need rooting gel?", "Rooting powder or gel for clones?", "Can I clone without rooting hormone?", "Does willow water work for clones?" ], "topic": "cloning", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "You don't strictly need rooting hormone for cannabis clones, but it clearly helps. In a controlled study, an IBA gel gave 2.1 times the rooting success of a willow-extract gel, and in hemp, hormone-treated cuttings rooted far better than untreated ones. Use an IBA gel or powder (commonly 1,000–3,000 ppm), dip once from a decanted portion, and expect roots in 7–14 days.", "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "parent": "kb-breeding-clone-only-preservation", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/do-i-need-rooting-hormone.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/do-i-need-rooting-hormone.md", "qa": [ "Is gel or powder better for clones?", "Does willow water or honey work as rooting hormone?", "Can too much rooting hormone hurt clones?" ], "sources_count": 2, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-do-i-need-to-ph-my-water", "question": "Do I really need to pH my water?", "phrasings": [ "Do I need to pH my water?", "What happens if I don't pH my water?", "Is pH necessary in soil?", "Do I need to pH water for living soil?", "Can I skip pH in coco?" ], "topic": "ph-ec", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "In coco, rockwool and hydro, yes: adjust every batch to about pH 5.5-6.2 in hydro or 5.8-6.3 in coco, because these media barely buffer pH. In bagged soil, adjusting to pH 6.2-6.8 is good practice but the mix buffers small errors, and your water's alkalinity matters more than its pH. In living soil, generally no. The accepted ranges are soil 6.0-7.0 and soilless 5.5-6.5.", "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "parent": "kb-ph-ec-ph-nutrient-availability", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/do-i-need-to-ph-my-water.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/do-i-need-to-ph-my-water.md", "qa": [ "What happens if I don't pH my water in hydro?", "Do I need to pH water for soil?", "Do I need to pH water for living soil?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-do-mycorrhizae-help", "question": "Do mycorrhizae help cannabis?", "phrasings": [ "Do mycorrhizal fungi help weed?", "Is a root inoculant worth it?", "Do myco products work?", "Should I add mycorrhizae in hydro or coco?", "Mycorrhizae for transplanting" ], "topic": "nutrients", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "Mycorrhizae can help cannabis a little, mainly with phosphorus uptake in low-phosphorus soil, but commercial inoculants often don't deliver. In a seedling trial the highest dose raised root length 34% and phosphorus content 24%. A global test of 28 commercial products found most failed to colonise roots. In fully fed hydro or coco, phosphorus is plentiful and colonisation is suppressed, so inoculants are mostly wasted money.", "evidence": "contested", "evidence_name": "Contested", "parent": "kb-systems-living-soil", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/do-mycorrhizae-help.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/do-mycorrhizae-help.md", "qa": [ "Do mycorrhizae work in hydro or coco?", "Are mycorrhizal inoculants alive when I buy them?", "Do mycorrhizae help living soil?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-do-seedlings-need-a-dome", "question": "Do cannabis seedlings need a humidity dome?", "phrasings": [ "Should I use a humidity dome for seedlings?", "Humidity dome for seedlings, yes or no?", "When do I remove the dome from seedlings?", "Do seedlings need high humidity?" ], "topic": "germination", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "Cannabis seedlings don't strictly need a humidity dome, but one helps in dry rooms for the first 3–7 days by holding 65–75% RH around them. Vent it daily, and remove it gradually once the first true leaves are growing well. A dome left closed for days breeds mould and damping-off. If your room already sits at 60–70% RH, skip the dome.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-germination-seedling-care", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/do-seedlings-need-a-dome.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/do-seedlings-need-a-dome.md", "qa": [ "When should I take the dome off seedlings?", "What humidity do seedlings need?", "Can a humidity dome cause damping-off?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-do-seeds-need-light-to-germinate", "question": "Do cannabis seeds need light to germinate?", "phrasings": [ "Should seeds germinate in the dark or the light?", "Do cannabis seeds need light?", "Should seeds be kept in the dark?", "How much light does cannabis need?" ], "topic": "germination", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "No. Cannabis seeds do not need light to germinate; they need warmth (22–27 °C / 72–81 °F), moisture and air, and germinate well in the dark. Light becomes essential the moment the seedling breaks the surface: start at about 100–200 µmol/m²/s for 18 hours, rising to 150–300. A seedling left in the dark after emerging stretches and weakens within a day or two.", "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "parent": "kb-germination-germination-methods", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/do-seeds-need-light-to-germinate.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/do-seeds-need-light-to-germinate.md", "qa": [ "How much light does cannabis need?", "When do seedlings need light?", "Does light hurt germinating seeds?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-do-sticky-traps-work", "question": "Do sticky traps work?", "phrasings": [ "Do yellow sticky traps work?", "Blue sticky traps for thrips", "Will sticky traps get rid of fungus gnats?", "Where should I put sticky traps in my tent?", "Yellow or blue sticky cards?" ], "topic": "pests", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "Sticky traps work as a monitoring tool, not a cure. Yellow cards catch fungus gnats, whiteflies, winged aphids and leafminers; blue cards are somewhat more attractive to thrips. They catch only flying adults, so they never fix larvae in the medium or spider mites. Count catches weekly and replace the card: a rising count is your early warning, and a falling count shows the real treatment is working.", "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "parent": "kb-pests-fungus-gnats", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/do-sticky-traps-work.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/do-sticky-traps-work.md", "qa": [ "Will sticky traps get rid of fungus gnats?", "Do sticky traps catch spider mites?", "Where should I put sticky traps?" ], "sources_count": 5, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-does-compost-tea-work", "question": "Does compost tea work for cannabis?", "phrasings": [ "Does aerated compost tea work?", "Is ACT good for weed plants?", "What are the benefits of compost tea?", "Does compost tea feed the plant?", "Should I add molasses to compost tea?" ], "topic": "nutrients", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "Compost tea is not a meaningful fertiliser for cannabis, and its disease-control effects are inconsistent. Reviews found some teas suppressed some diseases in some trials, with no reliable recipe, and there are no controlled cannabis trials. Adding molasses, kelp or fish to brew grew E. coli and Salmonella 10- to 10,000-fold in one study. If you use it, apply it to living soil, not flowers, within hours of brewing.", "evidence": "contested", "evidence_name": "Contested", "parent": "kb-systems-living-soil", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/does-compost-tea-work.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/does-compost-tea-work.md", "qa": [ "Does compost tea add nutrients?", "Is it safe to spray compost tea on buds?", "Should I add molasses to compost tea?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-does-foliar-feeding-work", "question": "Does foliar feeding work on cannabis?", "phrasings": [ "Do foliar nutrient sprays work?", "Can I spray leaves with Cal-Mag?", "Is it OK to foliar feed in flower?", "How much Epsom salt for a foliar spray?", "Can foliar feeding replace root feeding?" ], "topic": "nutrients", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "Foliar feeding works on cannabis as a quick, small top-up, not as a feed. Leaves absorb little and unevenly, so a spray can green new growth within days for magnesium, iron or zinc in veg, but it cannot supply nitrogen, potassium or calcium in useful amounts. Use it in veg only, at low light or lights-off, and never spray flowers. Fix the root zone at the same time.", "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "parent": "kb-nutrients-feed-by-stage", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/does-foliar-feeding-work.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/does-foliar-feeding-work.md", "qa": [ "How much Epsom salt for a foliar spray?", "Can I foliar feed in flower?", "Can I foliar feed Cal-Mag for calcium deficiency?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-electricity-cost-of-growing", "question": "How much electricity does a home grow use?", "phrasings": [ "Electric bill for growing weed", "Cost to run a grow light", "How much does it cost to grow at home?", "How many kWh does a grow tent use?" ], "topic": "basics", "intent": "numbers", "answer": "A home grow uses about 300 kWh per photoperiod run in a 2 x 2 ft tent (150 W LED plus fans) and about 850 kWh in a 4 x 4 ft tent (500 W LED plus fans), with 4 weeks of veg at 18/6 and 10 weeks of flower at 12/12. At 0.15 per kWh that is roughly 45 and 130 in local currency. Dehumidifiers and heaters add more.", "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "parent": "kb-basics-first-grow-guide", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/electricity-cost-of-growing.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/electricity-cost-of-growing.md", "qa": [ "How do I calculate my grow's electricity use?", "Do autoflowers use more electricity?", "Are LEDs cheaper to run than HPS?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-fabric-pots-vs-plastic-pots", "question": "Are fabric pots better than plastic pots?", "phrasings": [ "Fabric pots vs plastic pots for cannabis", "Are fabric grow bags worth it?", "Air pots vs fabric pots", "Do fabric pots stop root circling?" ], "topic": "systems", "intent": "comparison", "answer": "Fabric pots are better than plastic pots for hand-watered soil, mainly because they dry faster and run cooler. Water evaporates through the walls, which cuts overwatering risk and kept substrate about 6 °C (11 °F) cooler than black plastic in one nursery study. The cost is more frequent watering. Plastic suits automated drip, coco and growers who water rarely.", "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "parent": "kb-systems-soil", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/fabric-pots-vs-plastic-pots.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/fabric-pots-vs-plastic-pots.md", "qa": [ "Do fabric pots need more water?", "Do fabric pots prevent root rot?", "What about air pots?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-fan-leaves-vs-sugar-leaves", "question": "What is the difference between fan leaves and sugar leaves?", "phrasings": [ "Fan leaves vs sugar leaves", "What are sugar leaves?", "Big leaves vs small leaves on buds", "Should I remove fan leaves?" ], "topic": "basics", "intent": "definition", "answer": "Fan leaves are the big palmate leaves, usually 5–9 serrated leaflets on long stalks, that do most of a cannabis plant's photosynthesis and carry few trichomes. Sugar leaves are the small, resin-coated leaves growing out of the buds, trimmed at harvest and often kept for processing. GenetixBay's house rule is 'tuck, don't pluck': keep fan leaves working and move them aside instead of stripping them.", "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "parent": "kb-basics-cannabis-plant-biology", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/fan-leaves-vs-sugar-leaves.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/fan-leaves-vs-sugar-leaves.md", "qa": [ "Should I remove fan leaves?", "What do I do with sugar leaf trim?", "Why are my fan leaves yellowing in late flower?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-feed-every-watering", "question": "Should I feed every time I water?", "phrasings": [ "Should I do feed, water, feed?", "Do I add nutrients every watering?", "Feed then plain water: is that right?", "How often should I give nutrients in soil?", "Do I feed every watering in coco?" ], "topic": "nutrients", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "Whether to feed every watering depends on the medium. In coco, rockwool and hydro, yes: every irrigation carries nutrient solution at stage strength, about EC 1.2-1.8 mS/cm in veg and 1.6-2.2 in flower. In bagged soil, feed every second or third watering at EC 0.8-1.6 once the starter charge runs out. In living soil, water only and top-dress. Runoff EC tells you if the rhythm is right.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-nutrients-feed-by-stage", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/feed-every-watering.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/feed-every-watering.md", "qa": [ "Should I feed every watering in coco?", "Is feed, water, feed right for soil?", "Can I just use a weaker feed every watering in soil?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-feeding-autoflowers", "question": "How should I feed autoflowers?", "phrasings": [ "Do autoflowers need less nutrients?", "Autoflower feeding schedule", "How much nutrients for autos?", "What EC should I feed my autoflower?" ], "topic": "basics", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "Feed autoflowers lighter than photoperiods but don't starve them: plain water or about EC 0.4–0.6 mS/cm for the first two weeks, 0.8–1.2 in weeks 3–4 and 1.2–1.8 in flower, starting at a quarter to half the label rate. Quality bagged soil often needs water only for 2–3 weeks. Feed through to harvest; don't flush. Hunger in week 3 costs yield an auto can't recover.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-basics-photoperiod-vs-autoflower", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/feeding-autoflowers.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/feeding-autoflowers.md", "qa": [ "Do autoflowers need less nutrients than photoperiods?", "Should I flush my autoflower before harvest?", "When should I start feeding an autoflower?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-fix-deficiency-in-late-flower", "question": "Is it worth fixing a deficiency in late flower?", "phrasings": [ "Deficiency in week 7 of flower: what do I do?", "How do I fix a late flower deficiency?", "Is it too late to fix my plant?", "Yellow leaves in the last weeks of flower", "Should I feed more at the end?" ], "topic": "nutrients", "intent": "troubleshooting", "answer": "It depends what you're seeing. Lower fan leaves yellowing in the last 2-3 weeks is normal remobilisation, not a deficiency, so leave it. A real problem that spreads to sugar leaves and new growth with 3 or more weeks to go is worth fixing, usually by correcting root-zone pH or runoff EC and keeping the feed at stage strength. Never flush, and never foliar spray buds.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-nutrients-mobile-vs-immobile-nutrients", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/fix-deficiency-in-late-flower.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/fix-deficiency-in-late-flower.md", "qa": [ "Is yellowing at the end of flower normal?", "Can I foliar spray a deficiency in flower?", "Should I raise my feed strength late in flower?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-fix-soil-ph", "question": "How do I fix soil pH that is too high or too low?", "phrasings": [ "How do I raise soil pH?", "How do I lower soil pH?", "Should I use lime to fix soil pH?", "My runoff pH is 7.5: what do I do?", "How do I test soil pH in a pot?" ], "topic": "ph-ec", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "Raise soil pH with agricultural or dolomitic lime and lower it with elemental sulfur; both take weeks, so build them into the mix before planting. In a pot mid-grow, correct slowly through the water instead: pH-adjust each watering and treat hard water's alkalinity. Aim for a root zone of pH 6.0-7.0, ideally 6.2-6.8, and act if runoff stays below about 5.8 or above 7.3.", "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "parent": "kb-ph-ec-ph-nutrient-availability", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/fix-soil-ph.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/fix-soil-ph.md", "qa": [ "How do I lower soil pH in a pot quickly?", "How do I raise soil pH in a pot quickly?", "How do I test soil pH in a pot?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-full-strength-feeding-chart", "question": "Should I use full-strength nutrients from the feeding chart?", "phrasings": [ "Should I use half-strength nutrients?", "Is the feeding chart too strong?", "Should I start at quarter strength?", "Why are my tips burning on the recommended dose?", "Do I follow the bottle's feed schedule?" ], "topic": "nutrients", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "Usually not at first. Feeding charts are written as upper limits, often for hard water and vigorous plants. Start at about half to three-quarters of the chart and steer by EC instead: about 0.6-1.0 mS/cm for seedlings, 1.2-1.8 in veg and 1.6-2.2 in flower for coco and hydro, and 0.8-1.6 in soil. Raise strength only if runoff EC and leaves say the plant wants more.", "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "parent": "kb-nutrients-feed-by-stage", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/full-strength-feeding-chart.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/full-strength-feeding-chart.md", "qa": [ "What strength should I feed seedlings?", "How do I know if I'm feeding too strong?", "Does feeding stronger give bigger yields?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-grams-per-watt", "question": "How much yield should I expect per watt or per square foot?", "phrasings": [ "Grams per watt", "Yield per square foot", "How much will a 4x4 yield?", "What is a good g/W?" ], "topic": "basics", "intent": "numbers", "answer": "Expect roughly 100–500 g of dry flower per square metre (about 10–50 g, or 0.3–1.6 oz, per square foot) indoors, rising with light; well-run research rooms at 750–900 µmol/m²/s measured 500–750 g/m². Worked back from those trials, that is roughly 0.7–2 g per watt of efficient LED. A 4 x 4 ft tent therefore gives about 150–700 g, set mainly by canopy light.", "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "parent": "kb-environment-ppfd-dli-by-stage", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/grams-per-watt.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/grams-per-watt.md", "qa": [ "Is grams per watt a good measure?", "How much will a 4x4 tent yield?", "Does more light always mean more yield?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-gravel-in-bottom-of-pots", "question": "Should I put gravel or rocks in the bottom of my pots?", "phrasings": [ "Should I put rocks in my pots for drainage?", "Does a gravel layer help drainage?", "Do pots need a drainage layer?", "Clay pebbles in the bottom of the pot" ], "topic": "systems", "intent": "myth", "answer": "No, you don't need gravel or rocks in the bottom of a pot, and the idea that a drainage layer is necessary to stop waterlogging is a myth. Its effect on drainage is small and disputed, and it takes away root volume. A free-draining mix with 20–35% perlite or pumice, open drainage holes and an empty saucer do the job better.", "evidence": "myth", "evidence_name": "Myth", "parent": "kb-systems-soil", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/gravel-in-bottom-of-pots.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/gravel-in-bottom-of-pots.md", "qa": [ "Does gravel in the bottom of a pot cause a perched water table?", "What should I put in the bottom of my pot instead?", "Can I use clay pebbles at the bottom of a soil pot?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-grow-room-electrical-safety", "question": "Is an indoor grow a fire risk?", "phrasings": [ "Can a grow tent catch fire?", "Electrical safety for a home grow", "Is it safe to run a grow light from a power strip?", "How many watts can I run on one circuit?" ], "topic": "equipment", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "An indoor grow is a real fire risk only when it's set up badly: overloaded circuits, daisy-chained power strips, damaged cords, heaters and water near plugs. Keep continuous load under 80 % of the circuit (about 1,440 W on a 15 A, 120 V circuit; about 2,900 W on 16 A, 230 V), use RCD/GFCI protection, give cables drip loops and fit a working smoke alarm.", "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "parent": "kb-basics-first-grow-guide", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/grow-room-electrical-safety.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/grow-room-electrical-safety.md", "qa": [ "How many watts can I run on one circuit?", "Is it safe to use a power strip for grow lights?", "Do I need a GFCI or RCD for my grow?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-hang-whole-plant-or-branches", "question": "Should I hang the whole plant or cut branches to dry?", "phrasings": [ "Should I hang the whole plant to dry?", "Hang branches or whole plant?", "Can I dry buds on a rack?", "Whole-plant hang vs drying rack" ], "topic": "harvest-cure", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "Hang the whole plant if your dry room runs on the dry side or you want the slowest dry, because the stem and leaves slow water loss. Cut branches if space is tight or the room is humid, since smaller pieces dry faster and evenly. Wet-trimmed buds go on a rack and dry fastest. Whatever the method, aim for 7–14 days at 15–21 °C (60–70 °F) and 55–62% RH.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-harvest-cure-drying", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/hang-whole-plant-or-branches.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/hang-whole-plant-or-branches.md", "qa": [ "Does hanging the whole plant make a better dry?", "Can I dry buds on a drying rack?", "How far apart should drying branches hang?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-harvest-in-stages", "question": "Should I harvest the whole plant at once or in stages?", "phrasings": [ "Should I harvest the top colas first?", "How do I do a staggered harvest?", "My bottom buds aren't ready yet", "Is it worth harvesting in two stages?" ], "topic": "harvest-cure", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "Harvest a cannabis plant in stages when the top colas are ready and the lower buds clearly aren't, often a difference of several days. Cut the tops at mostly cloudy with some amber, then give the lower buds roughly 5–10 more days, feeding normally. If the whole plant reads within a few percent, or bud rot or pollen threatens, harvest everything at once. Never flush or darken before either cut.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-harvest-cure-trichome-ripeness", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/harvest-in-stages.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/harvest-in-stages.md", "qa": [ "Do lower buds get bigger after the top is harvested?", "Is a staggered harvest worth the effort?", "Does cutting the top stress the rest of the plant?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-harvesting-too-early-or-late", "question": "What happens if I harvest too early or too late?", "phrasings": [ "What happens if I harvest cannabis early?", "I think I harvested too late", "Effects of an early chop", "Does harvesting late make it stronger?" ], "topic": "harvest-cure", "intent": "troubleshooting", "answer": "Harvest too early and you lose weight and resin: buds are still filling, and cannabinoid concentration hasn't reached its plateau. Harvest too late and the plant senesces, cannabinoid concentration starts falling, and bud-rot risk climbs. The window between is fairly wide. Most growers cut at mostly cloudy with about 5–20% amber, a matter of preference. Amber doesn't mean CBN or couch-lock.", "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "parent": "kb-harvest-cure-trichome-ripeness", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/harvesting-too-early-or-late.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/harvesting-too-early-or-late.md", "qa": [ "Is it bad to harvest when trichomes are mostly clear?", "Does harvesting late make cannabis more sedating?", "How long is the harvest window?" ], "sources_count": 5, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-hemp-vs-marijuana", "question": "What is the difference between hemp and marijuana?", "phrasings": [ "Hemp vs weed", "Is hemp the same plant as cannabis?", "Hemp vs cannabis difference", "Is hemp just low-THC cannabis?" ], "topic": "basics", "intent": "definition", "answer": "Hemp and marijuana are the same species, Cannabis sativa. The difference is chemistry, breeding and law: hemp is cannabis grown for fibre, seed or low-THC flower, defined in many laws as no more than 0.3% THC by dry weight, while marijuana is drug-type cannabis bred for high THC. The two groups are genetically distinct populations, and many fibre hemps are bred monoecious.", "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "parent": "kb-basics-cannabis-plant-biology", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/hemp-vs-marijuana.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/hemp-vs-marijuana.md", "qa": [ "Where does the 0.3% THC hemp limit come from?", "Can hemp get you high?", "Is CBD flower hemp?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-holes-in-leaves", "question": "What is eating holes in my leaves?", "phrasings": [ "Why are there holes in my cannabis leaves?", "Something is chewing my leaves", "Leaf damage from bugs outdoors", "Ragged holes in leaves overnight", "Holes in leaves indoors but no bugs" ], "topic": "pests", "intent": "troubleshooting", "answer": "Holes in cannabis leaves are usually chewing pests, and the clue left behind names them. Dark frass pellets mean caterpillars; silvery slime trails mean slugs or snails; ragged margins on outdoor edge plants mean grasshoppers; a seedling cut through at the soil line means cutworms. Indoors, chewers are rare: holes there are more often dead, dried tissue from nutrient or burn spots falling out. Check at night with a torch.", "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "parent": "kb-pests-caterpillars", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/holes-in-leaves.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/holes-in-leaves.md", "qa": [ "What is eating my cannabis leaves at night?", "Why are there holes in my leaves indoors with no bugs?", "Do I need to treat for caterpillars if I see holes?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-home-remedies-for-powdery-mildew", "question": "Do milk or baking soda sprays work for powdery mildew?", "phrasings": [ "Does milk spray cure powdery mildew?", "Baking soda spray for powdery mildew on cannabis", "Is potassium bicarbonate good for PM?", "Home remedy for white powder on leaves" ], "topic": "diseases", "intent": "myth", "answer": "Milk and bicarbonate sprays suppress powdery mildew on leaves; they do not cure it. Trials on squash and pumpkin found milk above about 10% and 0.5% bicarbonate plus oil cut disease, but there are no cannabis trials. Use them only in veg, with full coverage every 7–10 days, alongside airflow and stable humidity. Never spray them on buds after the first 2–3 weeks of flower.", "evidence": "myth", "evidence_name": "Myth", "parent": "kb-diseases-powdery-mildew", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/home-remedies-for-powdery-mildew.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/home-remedies-for-powdery-mildew.md", "qa": [ "Is potassium bicarbonate better than baking soda for powdery mildew?", "Can I spray milk on cannabis in flower?", "Why does powdery mildew come back after I spray?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-how-cold-is-too-cold", "question": "How cold is too cold for cannabis?", "phrasings": [ "What is the minimum temperature for cannabis?", "My grow room is cold: is that a problem?", "Is 60 °F (15 °C) too cold for cannabis?", "How cold can cannabis plants get at night?" ], "topic": "environment", "intent": "troubleshooting", "answer": "Cannabis gets too cold when air at the canopy stays below about 15 °C (59 °F): growth, water use and ripening slow sharply, and humid cold nights invite bud rot. Lights-on air below about 20 °C (68 °F) already costs growth. Late-flower nights of 16–20 °C (61–68 °F) are fine. Keep the root zone at 18–22 °C (64–72 °F); cold roots stall a plant even when the air is warm.", "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "parent": "kb-environment-temperature-by-stage", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-cold-is-too-cold.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-cold-is-too-cold.md", "qa": [ "Is 60 °F (15.5 °C) too cold for cannabis?", "Will a cold night kill my plant?", "Do cold nights make buds purple?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-how-did-pests-get-in-my-tent", "question": "How did pests get into my sealed tent?", "phrasings": [ "Where do bugs come from in an indoor grow?", "Spider mites appeared out of nowhere", "How do pests get into a closed grow room?", "How did I get thrips in my tent?", "Can pests come in through the fan?" ], "topic": "pests", "intent": "troubleshooting", "answer": "Pests don't appear from nowhere in a sealed cannabis tent; something carried them in. The usual routes, most likely first, are new clones, your own clothes and hands after the garden, pets and houseplants, unfinished compost or open media bags (fungus gnats), and the intake air for tiny fliers like thrips and whiteflies. Low populations hide for weeks, so the source often predates the symptoms.", "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "parent": "kb-diseases-sanitation-and-prevention", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-did-pests-get-in-my-tent.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-did-pests-get-in-my-tent.md", "qa": [ "Can spider mites come in on seeds?", "Can pests get in through my intake fan?", "Why do pests come back every grow?" ], "sources_count": 5, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-how-full-to-fill-curing-jars", "question": "How full should I fill my curing jars?", "phrasings": [ "How full should curing jars be?", "Should jars be three-quarters full?", "Can I pack my jars tight?", "Jar fill level for curing" ], "topic": "harvest-cure", "intent": "numbers", "answer": "Fill curing jars about three-quarters full, loosely, so the buds don't crush and air can move around them when you burp. A packed jar holds wet pockets and flattens buds. A jar that is mostly empty holds a lot of air and swings humidity. Once the cure is done, after 2–8 weeks, fill storage jars fuller to cut the air in contact with the buds.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-harvest-cure-curing-burping", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-full-to-fill-curing-jars.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-full-to-fill-curing-jars.md", "qa": [ "What happens if I pack curing jars too tight?", "Does jar size matter for curing?", "Should storage jars be full after curing?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-how-long-can-mixed-nutrients-sit", "question": "How long can mixed nutrient solution be stored?", "phrasings": [ "Can I mix nutrients in advance?", "How long does premixed nutrient water last?", "Is old nutrient solution still good?", "Can I store leftover feed for next week?", "How long do nutrient concentrates last once opened?" ], "topic": "nutrients", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "Mixed mineral nutrient solution keeps about a week if it is covered, dark and cool, roughly the same 7-14 days a DWC reservoir runs between changes; an open, warm, lit jug is best used within 1-3 days. Light breaks down chelated iron, warmth grows microbes, and organic or sugary additives spoil within a day or two. Recheck pH and EC before use.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-nutrients-hydroponic-salts", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-long-can-mixed-nutrients-sit.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-long-can-mixed-nutrients-sit.md", "qa": [ "Why does stored nutrient solution go bad?", "Can I mix part A and part B in advance?", "How long do nutrient concentrates last?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-how-long-do-autoflowers-take", "question": "How long do autoflowers take from seed to harvest?", "phrasings": [ "How long do autos take?", "Autoflower total time from seed", "When are autos ready?", "How many weeks is an autoflower?" ], "topic": "basics", "intent": "numbers", "answer": "Autoflowers usually take about 9–14 weeks from sprouting to harvest, with fast lines near week 9–10 and long lines near week 13–14. They start flowering at about 3–5 weeks old whatever the light schedule. Add 1–2 weeks of drying before the buds are smokeable. Any setback, such as overwatering, transplanting or hunger, costs time the plant can't recover.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-basics-photoperiod-vs-autoflower", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-long-do-autoflowers-take.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-long-do-autoflowers-take.md", "qa": [ "Do autoflowers finish faster on 24 hours of light?", "Why is my auto taking longer than the breeder says?", "How long does it take to grow an autoflower start to finish?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-how-long-do-clones-take-to-root", "question": "How long do clones take to root?", "phrasings": [ "Clone root time", "How many days do cuttings take to root?", "My clones are not rooting", "Why is my cannabis clone not growing after rooting?" ], "topic": "cloning", "intent": "numbers", "answer": "Most cannabis clones root in 7–14 days, with the first roots showing around days 7–12 at a medium temperature of 22–26 °C (72–79 °F), high humidity and gentle light. Cuttings in a cold medium, from flowering plants or without rooting hormone can take 2–4 weeks or fail. If nothing after 3 weeks, check medium temperature, wetness and the cutting's source.", "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "parent": "kb-breeding-clone-only-preservation", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-long-do-clones-take-to-root.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-long-do-clones-take-to-root.md", "qa": [ "Why is my cannabis clone not growing after rooting?", "Why are my clones not rooting?", "Does a heat mat speed up rooting?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-how-long-does-a-carbon-filter-last", "question": "How long does a carbon filter last?", "phrasings": [ "When should I replace my carbon filter?", "Carbon filter lifespan for a grow tent", "My carbon filter stopped working", "Can you recharge a carbon filter?" ], "topic": "environment", "intent": "numbers", "answer": "A grow-tent carbon filter usually lasts about 12–18 months of continuous use, less in humid rooms or with very pungent cultivars, longer if it only runs in flower. Replace it when you can smell flowering plants at the exhaust outlet. A washable pre-filter sleeve cleaned monthly, and RH kept below about 60 %, are what stretch filter life.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-environment-airflow", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-long-does-a-carbon-filter-last.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-long-does-a-carbon-filter-last.md", "qa": [ "How do I know my carbon filter is finished?", "Does humidity shorten carbon filter life?", "Can I recharge or bake a carbon filter?" ], "sources_count": 2, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-how-long-does-flowering-take", "question": "How long does the flowering stage take?", "phrasings": [ "How many weeks does cannabis take to flower?", "How long from the flip to harvest?", "Indoor flowering time for photoperiod plants", "Why is my plant taking longer than the breeder said?" ], "topic": "environment", "intent": "numbers", "answer": "Most photoperiod cannabis flowers for about 7–10 weeks, counted from the first pistil clusters, but harvest comes about 9–12 weeks after the flip, because the flip isn't day 1 of flower: a 10–14 day transition comes first. A breeder's '8 weeks' usually means harvest about 9.5–10 weeks after switching to 12/12. Long-flowering equatorial types can take 11–16 weeks or more.", "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "parent": "kb-environment-flip-to-flower-transition", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-long-does-flowering-take.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-long-does-flowering-take.md", "qa": [ "How long after the flip to harvest?", "Why does my strain take longer than the breeder says?", "Does 13/11 make flowering take longer?", "How long do autoflowers take?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-how-long-is-the-seedling-stage", "question": "How long is the seedling stage?", "phrasings": [ "How long are cannabis plants seedlings?", "When does the seedling stage end?", "When does a seedling become veg?", "Why is my cannabis seedling so stretched?" ], "topic": "germination", "intent": "numbers", "answer": "The cannabis seedling stage lasts about 2–3 weeks from emergence. It ends when the plant has 3–4 nodes of true leaves with full-sized, multi-fingered leaflets and roots filling a small pot; then it's in veg. At 150–300 µmol/m²/s, 18 hours a day and 23–27 °C (73–81 °F) it moves fastest. Cold, low light or overwatering can stretch it to 4 weeks or more.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-germination-seedling-care", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-long-is-the-seedling-stage.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-long-is-the-seedling-stage.md", "qa": [ "Why is my cannabis seedling so stretched?", "When do seedlings get their first true leaves?", "When should I transplant a seedling?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-how-many-plants-per-tent", "question": "How many plants can I fit in my grow tent?", "phrasings": [ "How many plants in a 2x4 tent?", "How many plants in a 4x4 tent?", "Plants per square metre", "How many plants per square metre for SOG?" ], "topic": "basics", "intent": "numbers", "answer": "A grow tent fits about one or two trained plants in 60 x 60 cm (2 x 2 ft), two in 2 x 4 ft and two to four in 4 x 4 ft: roughly 1–4 plants per square metre. A sea of green packs 9–25 small plants per square metre. More plants raise yield per area only up to a point, and legal plant limits usually decide first.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-training-sog", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-many-plants-per-tent.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-many-plants-per-tent.md", "qa": [ "How many plants for a sea of green?", "Is one big plant or several small ones better?", "How many autoflowers fit in a 4x4 tent?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-how-much-does-one-plant-yield", "question": "How much weed does one plant produce?", "phrasings": [ "Yield per plant indoors", "How many ounces per plant?", "Average yield for a first grow", "How many grams does one plant give?" ], "topic": "basics", "intent": "numbers", "answer": "One indoor cannabis plant produces whatever its share of the canopy yields: roughly 100–500 g of dry flower per square metre of canopy in controlled trials, depending mostly on light. A single plant filling a 60 x 60 cm (2 x 2 ft) tent at moderate light gives about 40–180 g (1.5–6 oz). Per plant is a poor measure: yield follows canopy area and light, not plant count.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-basics-first-grow-guide", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-much-does-one-plant-yield.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-much-does-one-plant-yield.md", "qa": [ "How much does an autoflower yield?", "Do more plants mean more yield?", "Does a bigger pot give more yield per plant?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-how-much-sun-outdoors", "question": "How much sun does outdoor cannabis need?", "phrasings": [ "How many hours of direct sun does cannabis need?", "Can cannabis grow in partial shade?", "Sunlight needs for outdoor plants", "Is 4 hours of sun enough?", "Morning sun or afternoon sun for cannabis?" ], "topic": "outdoor", "intent": "numbers", "answer": "Outdoor cannabis needs at least 6–8 hours of direct sun a day, and more is better: full summer sun reaches 1,500–2,000 µmol/m²/s at midday and a daily light integral of roughly 40–60 mol/m²/day on clear days. Yield rises roughly in proportion to light, so a part-shaded spot yields less, not nothing. Under about 4 hours of direct sun, expect thin, airy buds.", "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "parent": "kb-environment-ppfd-dli-by-stage", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-much-sun-outdoors.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-much-sun-outdoors.md", "qa": [ "Can cannabis grow in partial shade?", "Is morning or afternoon sun better for cannabis?", "Can outdoor cannabis get too much sun?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-how-much-water-per-day", "question": "How much water does a cannabis plant use per day?", "phrasings": [ "How many litres does a cannabis plant drink per day?", "How much water do plants drink in flower?", "Daily water use per plant indoors", "How much water does a grow tent use?" ], "topic": "systems", "intent": "numbers", "answer": "A cannabis plant uses roughly 50–250 mL of water a day as a seedling, 0.5–1.5 L in veg and about 1.5–2 L a day as a large flowering plant indoors. Plan the room at up to about 10 L per m² of flowering canopy per day (1 L per ft²) under strong light and heat. Nearly all of it is transpired, so light, temperature and VPD drive use.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-diagnosis-drooping-overwatering-vs-underwatering", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-much-water-per-day.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-much-water-per-day.md", "qa": [ "How much water does a grow tent use per day?", "Why does my plant drink more some days?", "Should I give the same amount every day?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-how-often-to-water", "question": "How often should I water my cannabis plants?", "phrasings": [ "How often do you water weed plants?", "How often should I water in soil?", "How many times a day do I water coco?", "Watering schedule for autoflowers", "Am I watering too much?" ], "topic": "systems", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "Water by weight, not by calendar. In soil, water when the pot feels about 40–50% lighter than just after watering, usually every 2–4 days for established plants. Coco and rockwool want watering once to several times a day with 10–30% runoff. Seedlings in big pots need small amounts around the stem. The pot's weight and the plant's size set the schedule, not the day of the week.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-diagnosis-drooping-overwatering-vs-underwatering", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-often-to-water.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-often-to-water.md", "qa": [ "Should I water every day?", "How much water should I give per watering?", "How do I know when my plant needs water?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-how-soon-after-harvest-can-i-smoke", "question": "How soon after harvest can I smoke my buds?", "phrasings": [ "Can I smoke buds right after drying?", "Can I smoke before the cure?", "How long until my weed is smokable?", "How many days after harvest can I try it?" ], "topic": "harvest-cure", "intent": "numbers", "answer": "Cannabis can be smoked once it is properly dried, usually 7–14 days after harvest, when small stems snap and a sealed sample jar reads a stable 58–65% RH. It is noticeably better after at least 2 weeks of curing, and most growers cure for 4–8 weeks. Fresh or fast-dried samples smoke harsh and grassy and don't represent how the finished crop will taste.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-harvest-cure-drying", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-soon-after-harvest-can-i-smoke.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-soon-after-harvest-can-i-smoke.md", "qa": [ "Can I quick-dry a sample bud to try early?", "How long should I cure before smoking?", "Does weed get stronger as it cures?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-how-tall-do-plants-get-indoors", "question": "How tall do cannabis plants get indoors?", "phrasings": [ "How big do weed plants get?", "Plant height indoors", "Final height of a cannabis plant", "How tall will my plant be after the flip?" ], "topic": "basics", "intent": "numbers", "answer": "Indoor cannabis usually finishes about 60–150 cm (2–5 ft) tall, because the grower sets the height: a photoperiod plant grows 50–100% taller after the flip, stretchy cultivars up to 3×, so a plant flipped at 40–60 cm ends near 60–150 cm. Autoflowers usually fit a 140–160 cm tent. Outdoors, unrestricted plants reach about 1–5 m (3–16 ft).", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-basics-life-cycle", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-tall-do-plants-get-indoors.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-tall-do-plants-get-indoors.md", "qa": [ "How much do plants stretch after the flip?", "How do I keep my plants short indoors?", "How tall should my grow tent be?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-how-to-adjust-ph", "question": "How do I raise or lower the pH of my water?", "phrasings": [ "How much pH down should I use?", "How do I lower pH?", "How do I raise pH?", "Why does my hydro pH keep going up?", "Does an air stone raise pH?" ], "topic": "ph-ec", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "Lower pH with a mineral acid pH down (phosphoric, nitric or sulfuric) and raise it with potassium hydroxide or potassium silicate, after the nutrients are in. Add a few drops per 10 litres, stir, wait, re-read. In hydro, recheck after 15-30 minutes of circulation. A steady rise of 0.1-0.4 pH per day in a healthy reservoir is normal, from nitrate uptake and aeration stripping CO2.", "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "parent": "kb-ph-ec-water-quality", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-to-adjust-ph.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-to-adjust-ph.md", "qa": [ "Why does my hydro pH keep going up?", "Does an air stone raise pH?", "Why does my pH bounce back after I add pH down?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-how-to-check-trichomes", "question": "How do I check trichomes?", "phrasings": [ "How do I use a jeweller's loupe on trichomes?", "What magnifier do I need for trichomes?", "Can I check trichomes with a phone microscope?", "Where on the bud should I look at trichomes?" ], "topic": "harvest-cure", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "Check cannabis trichomes with a 60–100× loupe or clip-on phone microscope, looking at the heads on the calyxes, not the sugar leaves. Sample a top cola, a mid-canopy bud and a lower bud, and score the share of clear, cloudy and amber heads. Start checking at the early end of the cultivar's window, counted from the flip plus the 10–14 day transition, and repeat every 2–3 days.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-harvest-cure-trichome-ripeness", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-to-check-trichomes.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-to-check-trichomes.md", "qa": [ "What magnification do I need to see trichomes?", "Why shouldn't I check trichomes on sugar leaves?", "How often should I check trichomes?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-how-to-clone-cannabis", "question": "How do I clone a cannabis plant?", "phrasings": [ "How do I take clones?", "Cloning steps for beginners", "How to take cuttings from a cannabis plant", "Should I clone before flowering?", "Is it OK to rename a clone?" ], "topic": "cloning", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "To clone cannabis, cut an 8–15 cm (3–6 in) shoot tip with 2–3 nodes from a healthy vegetative plant, cut below a node with a clean blade, dip it in IBA rooting gel and set it in a moist plug. Keep it at 22–26 °C (72–79 °F), 75–90% RH under gentle light of 50–150 µmol/m²/s. Most cuttings root in 7–14 days.", "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "parent": "kb-breeding-clone-only-preservation", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-to-clone-cannabis.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-to-clone-cannabis.md", "qa": [ "Should I clone before flowering?", "Is it OK to rename a clone?", "Do I need to trim the leaves on a cutting?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-how-to-control-grow-smell", "question": "How do I stop my grow tent from smelling?", "phrasings": [ "How do I control weed smell from a grow?", "Odour control for an indoor grow", "Carbon filter but still smells", "How do I hide grow smell at harvest?" ], "topic": "environment", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "Stop a grow tent smelling by keeping it under negative pressure and sending all exhaust air through an activated-carbon filter rated at or above the fan's airflow. Size the fan for about one tent air exchange per minute plus 25–50 % for filter and duct losses, seal unused ports, and keep RH below about 60 %. Never use an ozone generator in an occupied home.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-environment-airflow", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-to-control-grow-smell.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-to-control-grow-smell.md", "qa": [ "Why does my tent still smell with a carbon filter?", "Are ozone generators safe for grow smell?", "When does a grow smell the most?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-how-to-cool-a-grow-tent", "question": "How do I lower the temperature in my grow tent?", "phrasings": [ "My grow tent is too hot", "How do I cool down a grow room?", "Heat problems in my tent", "Is 30 °C too hot for cannabis?" ], "topic": "environment", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "Lower grow-tent temperature by removing the light's heat faster: more exhaust from a cooler room, drivers or ballasts outside the tent, lights dimmed 10–20 %, and lights run in the coolest hours. Aim for 24–28 °C (75–82 °F) in veg and 22–26 °C (72–79 °F) in flower. Above about 30 °C (86 °F) without added CO₂, photosynthesis falls.", "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "parent": "kb-environment-temperature-by-stage", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-to-cool-a-grow-tent.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-to-cool-a-grow-tent.md", "qa": [ "Is 30 °C (86 °F) too hot for a grow tent?", "Should I run my lights at night to keep the tent cool?", "Does a bigger exhaust fan always cool a tent?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-how-to-fix-nutrient-lockout", "question": "How do I fix nutrient lockout?", "phrasings": [ "How do I fix lockout?", "My plant is not taking up nutrients", "Should I flush for lockout?", "Deficiency even though I'm feeding", "What causes nutrient lockout?" ], "topic": "nutrients", "intent": "troubleshooting", "answer": "Fix nutrient lockout by finding its cause first: most lockout is root-zone pH out of range, salt build-up or damaged roots, not true antagonism. Calibrate your meter, check runoff pH and EC, and look at the roots. If runoff EC is about 0.8-1.0 mS/cm or more above input, flush the root zone with 2-3 times the pot volume, then resume normal feeding. Correct pH gradually and stop stacking boosters.", "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "parent": "kb-nutrients-nutrient-antagonism", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-to-fix-nutrient-lockout.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-to-fix-nutrient-lockout.md", "qa": [ "What is nutrient lockout?", "How do I flush for lockout?", "How long does it take a plant to recover from lockout?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-how-to-get-bigger-denser-buds", "question": "How do I get bigger, denser buds?", "phrasings": [ "How do I get dense buds?", "Tips for bigger buds", "How do I fatten up buds in late flower?", "What makes buds rock hard?" ], "topic": "training", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "Bigger, denser buds come mainly from more light at every bud site: 800–1,200 µmol/m²/s at canopy in flower at ambient CO₂, on an even canopy. Then keep flower days at 22–26 °C (72–79 °F), feed a complete, balanced flower diet through to harvest, and harvest ripe. Bloom boosters, pre-harvest flushing and 48-hour darkness don't help.", "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "parent": "kb-environment-ppfd-dli-by-stage", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-to-get-bigger-denser-buds.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-to-get-bigger-denser-buds.md", "qa": [ "Do bloom boosters make buds denser?", "Does darkness before harvest make buds denser?", "Does supercropping make better buds?" ], "sources_count": 5, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-how-to-increase-yield-indoors", "question": "How can I increase my yield indoors?", "phrasings": [ "How do I increase my cannabis yield?", "Tips for more yield indoors", "How do I maximise my harvest?", "Does defoliation increase yield?", "Does higher planting density increase yield?" ], "topic": "training", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "Increase indoor yield with more usable light first: dry flower yield rose linearly from 116 to 519 g/m² as canopy PPFD went from 120 to 1,800 µmol/m²/s. Then fill the space with an even canopy, through training or more plants per m², give roots enough volume and water, and feed through to harvest. Defoliation doesn't raise yield; pre-harvest flushing costs it.", "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "parent": "kb-environment-ppfd-dli-by-stage", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-to-increase-yield-indoors.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-to-increase-yield-indoors.md", "qa": [ "Does defoliation increase yield?", "Does higher planting density increase yield?", "Do bigger pots increase yield?" ], "sources_count": 5, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-how-to-keep-a-grow-tent-warm", "question": "How do I keep my grow tent warm in winter?", "phrasings": [ "My grow tent is too cold", "How do I heat a grow tent?", "Growing in a cold garage or basement", "Grow tent temperature drops at night" ], "topic": "environment", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "Keep a grow tent warm in winter by keeping the light's own heat in: slow the exhaust on a thermostat, insulate the tent and floor, run the lights during the coldest hours, and only then add a thermostat-controlled heater. Hold 24–28 °C (75–82 °F) by day in veg, 22–26 °C (72–79 °F) in flower, nights 3–6 °C (5–10 °F) cooler, and the root zone at 18–22 °C (64–72 °F).", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-environment-temperature-by-stage", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-to-keep-a-grow-tent-warm.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-to-keep-a-grow-tent-warm.md", "qa": [ "What heater is safe for a grow tent?", "Should my lights be on at night in winter?", "How do I keep the roots warm in a cold grow room?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-how-to-lower-humidity-in-a-grow-tent", "question": "How do I lower the humidity in my grow tent?", "phrasings": [ "Humidity too high in my grow tent", "How do I reduce RH in a grow room?", "How can I lower humidity without a dehumidifier?", "Why does humidity spike when the lights go off?" ], "topic": "environment", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "Lower grow-tent humidity by removing the water the plants transpire: more exhaust if the room air is drier, then a dehumidifier sized to roughly the litres you irrigate per day, running through lights-off. Targets are 55–70 % RH in veg, 50–60 % in early flower and 40–50 % in late flower. Ramp temperature down slowly at lights-off and remove standing water.", "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "parent": "kb-environment-humidity-by-stage", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-to-lower-humidity-in-a-grow-tent.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-to-lower-humidity-in-a-grow-tent.md", "qa": [ "How can I lower humidity without a dehumidifier?", "What size dehumidifier for a grow tent?", "Why does humidity spike at lights-off?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-how-to-prevent-hermaphrodites", "question": "How do I stop my plants from turning hermaphrodite?", "phrasings": [ "How do I prevent herms?", "How to avoid nanners in flower", "Stop my plants hermying", "What causes cannabis to herm?" ], "topic": "diagnosis", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "Prevent hermaphrodites by starting with well-bred genetics first, then removing the stresses that reveal weak plants. Choose lines with a published herm rate and plant count, keep the 12-hour dark period fully light-tight, hold canopy temperature under about 30 °C (86 °F), and avoid heavy pruning or drought in flower. A herm is mainly a breeding fault: cull any plant that herms and never breed from it.", "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "parent": "kb-diagnosis-hermaphrodites", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-to-prevent-hermaphrodites.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-to-prevent-hermaphrodites.md", "qa": [ "Can I stop a herm-prone strain from herming?", "Do feminised seeds herm more than regular seeds?", "Does stress cause hermaphrodites?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-how-to-prevent-pests-indoors", "question": "How do I prevent pests in an indoor grow?", "phrasings": [ "IPM for an indoor grow", "How do I prevent pests in a grow tent?", "How do I keep bugs out of my grow room?", "Pest prevention routine indoors", "How do I stop spider mites and thrips getting in?" ], "topic": "pests", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "To prevent pests in an indoor grow, stop them coming in and catch the rest early. Quarantine every new clone for 2–3 weeks, start from seed where you can, keep outdoor clothes, pets and houseplants out, and work clean rooms first. Scout leaf undersides weekly with a 10–20x lens, count sticky cards weekly, release preventive predators in veg, and clean the room between cycles.", "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "parent": "kb-diseases-sanitation-and-prevention", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-to-prevent-pests-indoors.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-to-prevent-pests-indoors.md", "qa": [ "How long should I quarantine new clones?", "Should I release predatory mites before I see pests?", "What should I check every week for pests?" ], "sources_count": 5, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-how-to-raise-humidity-in-a-grow-tent", "question": "How do I raise the humidity in my grow tent?", "phrasings": [ "Humidity too low in my grow tent", "How do I increase RH in a grow room?", "Low humidity in my grow tent: what can I do?", "How do I raise humidity for seedlings?" ], "topic": "environment", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "Raise grow-tent humidity by keeping the water your plants transpire: slow the exhaust first, then add a humidifier on a humidistat. Targets are 65–75 % RH for seedlings, 55–70 % in veg and 50–60 % in early flower. Low RH matters most for seedlings and clones; in late flower, 40–50 % is the goal, so dry air is rarely a problem then.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-environment-humidity-by-stage", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-to-raise-humidity-in-a-grow-tent.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-to-raise-humidity-in-a-grow-tent.md", "qa": [ "How can I raise humidity without a humidifier?", "Is 30 % humidity too low for cannabis?", "Where should I put a humidifier in a grow tent?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-how-to-reveg-a-plant", "question": "How do I reveg a plant after harvest?", "phrasings": [ "How do I reveg a cannabis plant?", "Revegging after harvest", "How do I put a plant back into veg?", "How long does reveg take?" ], "topic": "cloning", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "To reveg a photoperiod cannabis plant after harvest, leave the lower branches with some leaves and small buds, put it back on 18/6 or 24/0, feed lightly and wait. Expect 2–6 weeks of rounded, single-bladed leaves before normal growth returns. Success varies: stripped, very late or autoflower plants usually fail. Clone the new shoots as soon as they look normal.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-environment-photoperiod-light-leaks", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-to-reveg-a-plant.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-to-reveg-a-plant.md", "qa": [ "How long does it take to reveg a plant?", "Can you reveg an autoflower?", "Is it better to reveg or keep a clone?" ], "sources_count": 2, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-how-to-set-up-a-grow-tent", "question": "How do I set up a grow tent?", "phrasings": [ "Grow tent setup step by step", "In what order do I assemble a grow tent?", "Where do I hang the fan and carbon filter?", "How should I lay out a grow tent?" ], "topic": "equipment", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "Set up a grow tent in this order: check the circuit, build the frame, hang the carbon filter high with the exhaust fan pulling through it, open low intakes on the far side, hang the light level over the canopy, add a clip fan, mount power off the floor, then run the empty tent for 48 hours, logging temperature and RH, before any plant goes in.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-basics-first-grow-guide", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-to-set-up-a-grow-tent.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-to-set-up-a-grow-tent.md", "qa": [ "Where should the carbon filter and fan go in a tent?", "How high should I hang the light when setting up?", "Why run an empty grow tent for 48 hours?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-how-to-trim-buds", "question": "How do I trim buds?", "phrasings": [ "How do I manicure buds?", "Trimming tips for beginners", "Scissors or a trim machine?", "Should I wet trim or dry trim?" ], "topic": "harvest-cure", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "Trim cannabis by removing the big fan leaves at harvest, then snipping or brushing the sugar leaves back to the bud, either wet on harvest day or dry once small stems snap after 7–14 days. Wet versus dry trim is grower preference. Use sharp, small scissors, gloves and a tray to catch trichomes, and keep the trim for hash or edibles. Handle buds by the stem.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-harvest-cure-drying", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-to-trim-buds.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/how-to-trim-buds.md", "qa": [ "Is wet trim or dry trim better?", "How much sugar leaf should I leave on?", "Should I use a trim machine?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-humidity-and-light-for-clones", "question": "What humidity and light do clones need?", "phrasings": [ "What humidity for clones in a dome?", "How much light do clones need?", "What RH for cuttings?", "Light schedule for clones" ], "topic": "cloning", "intent": "numbers", "answer": "Unrooted cannabis clones do best at 75–90% RH (a leaf VPD of about 0.2–0.5 kPa), a medium temperature of 22–26 °C (72–79 °F), and gentle light of 50–150 µmol/m²/s on 18–24 hours, a DLI of about 3–10 mol/m²/day. Once roots show, lower humidity over 3–5 days toward 65–75% and raise light toward 150–300 µmol/m²/s.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-breeding-clone-only-preservation", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/humidity-and-light-for-clones.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/humidity-and-light-for-clones.md", "qa": [ "Do clones need light to root?", "Should clones get 24/0 light?", "What temperature do clones need?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-is-a-clone-the-same-as-its-mother", "question": "Is a clone the same sex and age as its mother?", "phrasings": [ "Is a clone the same as the mother plant?", "How old is a clone?", "Is a clone the same sex as its mother?", "Why do clones from the same mother grow differently?" ], "topic": "cloning", "intent": "definition", "answer": "A cannabis clone is genetically the same as its mother, including her sex: every clone of a female is female. It is also physiologically mature, not a new seedling, so it can flower as soon as it gets 12/12. Apart from rare somatic mutations and carried-over pathogens such as hop latent viroid, it is the same genotype; there is zero genetic drift.", "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "parent": "kb-breeding-clone-only-preservation", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/is-a-clone-the-same-as-its-mother.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/is-a-clone-the-same-as-its-mother.md", "qa": [ "Why do clones from the same mother grow differently?", "Can a clone flower straight away?", "Do clones get weaker with every generation?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-kitchen-scraps-as-fertiliser", "question": "Do banana peels, coffee grounds or eggshells feed cannabis?", "phrasings": [ "Does banana peel water work for plants?", "Are coffee grounds good for weed?", "Do eggshells add calcium?", "Can I use kitchen scraps as fertiliser?", "Homemade fertiliser for cannabis" ], "topic": "nutrients", "intent": "myth", "answer": "No, not in any useful way: feeding cannabis with kitchen scraps is a Myth. Banana peels hold some potassium but release it only as they rot; peel water is a trace dose. Raw coffee grounds reduced plant growth in a controlled study. Eggshells are calcium carbonate that dissolves very slowly and acts more like lime than feed. Compost the scraps first, and feed the plant properly.", "evidence": "myth", "evidence_name": "Myth", "parent": "kb-nutrients-organic-vs-mineral", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/kitchen-scraps-as-fertiliser.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/kitchen-scraps-as-fertiliser.md", "qa": [ "Does banana peel water add potassium?", "Are coffee grounds good for cannabis?", "Do eggshells add calcium to soil?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-leaves-droop-at-night", "question": "Is it normal for leaves to droop at night?", "phrasings": [ "Why do my leaves droop when the lights go off?", "Leaves drooping in the dark period", "Night droop: normal or not?", "Plant looks sad at lights-off" ], "topic": "diagnosis", "intent": "troubleshooting", "answer": "Yes, cannabis leaves commonly droop or lower during the dark period and lift again within an hour or two of lights-on. Daily leaf movement is normal in many plants. Worry only if the leaves are still drooping 2 hours after lights-on, or droop during the day: then lift the pot to check for over- or underwatering, and check the roots if the pot is a normal weight.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-diagnosis-drooping-overwatering-vs-underwatering", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/leaves-droop-at-night.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/leaves-droop-at-night.md", "qa": [ "Why does my plant droop right after lights-off?", "How long after lights-on should leaves perk up?", "Should I water if my plant droops at night?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-led-grow-room-temperature", "question": "Should I run my room warmer with LEDs than with HPS?", "phrasings": [ "What temperature should an LED grow room be?", "Should I run warmer under LED?", "Leaf temperature under LED vs HPS", "Why are my leaves cold under LED?" ], "topic": "environment", "intent": "numbers", "answer": "Yes, run an LED room about 1–3 °C (2–5 °F) warmer than an HPS room. Under LEDs, well-watered leaves usually sit 1–3 °C below air temperature; under HPS they sit near or above it, because HPS radiates more heat onto the leaf. For a target leaf temperature of about 24–27 °C (75–81 °F), that means roughly 26–28 °C (79–82 °F) air under LED. Measure leaves with an IR thermometer.", "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "parent": "kb-environment-temperature-by-stage", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/led-grow-room-temperature.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/led-grow-room-temperature.md", "qa": [ "How do I measure leaf temperature?", "Does leaf temperature change VPD under LED?", "Is 28 °C too hot under LED?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-led-vs-hps", "question": "LED or HPS: which is better for cannabis?", "phrasings": [ "LED vs HPS yield", "Is LED better than HPS for cannabis?", "HPS vs LED bud quality", "Does HPS give denser buds than LED?" ], "topic": "environment", "intent": "comparison", "answer": "LED versus HPS for cannabis quality and yield per photon is an open question at GenetixBay: perhaps. At equal PPFD, research shows similar yields, while LED wins clearly on running cost, about 2.5–3 µmol/J against roughly 1.7 µmol/J for HPS, and on leaf heat load. One small trial found more flower mass under HPS but higher cannabinoid concentration under LED. A Bay Trial will test it.", "evidence": "contested", "evidence_name": "Contested", "parent": "kb-environment-light-spectrum", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/led-vs-hps.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/led-vs-hps.md", "qa": [ "Does HPS give better buds than LED?", "Is LED cheaper to run than HPS?", "Do I need to change my grow room settings when switching from HPS to LED?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-light-schedule-for-seedlings", "question": "What light schedule should seedlings get?", "phrasings": [ "18/6 or 24/0 for seedlings?", "How many hours of light do seedlings need?", "Seedling light cycle", "What light schedule for autoflower seedlings?" ], "topic": "germination", "intent": "numbers", "answer": "Photoperiod and autoflower seedlings both do well on 18/6: 18 hours of light at about 150–300 µmol/m²/s, a DLI of 10–19 mol/m²/day. 24/0 is fine too, because cannabis needs no sleep period in veg; it just costs more power, so drop the intensity to keep the same DLI. Never put photoperiod seedlings on 12/12 unless you want them to flower small.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-germination-seedling-care", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/light-schedule-for-seedlings.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/light-schedule-for-seedlings.md", "qa": [ "Is 24/0 bad for seedlings?", "How do I convert hours and PPFD to DLI?", "Do autoflower seedlings need a different schedule?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-lights-stayed-on-during-flower", "question": "What happens if my lights accidentally stay on during flower?", "phrasings": [ "My timer failed in flower: what now?", "Lights were on for 24 hours by mistake", "I missed a dark period in flower", "Will one night of light cause hermies?" ], "topic": "environment", "intent": "troubleshooting", "answer": "One accidental 24-hour light period in flower usually costs a photoperiod plant a day or two, not the crop. Fix the timer and return to your normal 12/12 or 13/11 straight away; no long 'make-up' darkness is needed. It matters most in the first two weeks after the flip, when induction can stall. Watch for pollen sacs for 2–3 weeks: a plant that herms from one night is herm-prone.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-environment-photoperiod-light-leaks", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/lights-stayed-on-during-flower.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/lights-stayed-on-during-flower.md", "qa": [ "Should I give extra darkness after the lights stayed on?", "Will one night of light cause hermaphrodites?", "What if my lights stayed on for several days in flower?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-lumens-vs-ppfd", "question": "Why don't lumens matter for grow lights?", "phrasings": [ "Lumens vs PAR for grow lights", "How much lux do plants need?", "How many lumens per square foot for cannabis?", "Is lux the same as PPFD?" ], "topic": "environment", "intent": "definition", "answer": "Lumens don't matter for grow lights because lumens, lux and foot-candles measure light as the human eye sees it, weighted heavily to green-yellow, while plants use photons from 400–700 nm about equally. The plant-relevant numbers are PPF (µmol/s from the fixture), PPFD (µmol/m²/s at the canopy), DLI (mol/m²/day) and efficacy (µmol/J). Lux converts to PPFD only roughly, and only for a known spectrum.", "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "parent": "kb-environment-ppfd-dli-by-stage", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/lumens-vs-ppfd.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/lumens-vs-ppfd.md", "qa": [ "What is the difference between lux and PPFD?", "How many lumens does cannabis need?", "What do PPF, PPFD and DLI mean?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-macro-vs-micronutrients", "question": "What are macronutrients and micronutrients?", "phrasings": [ "What are macro and micro nutrients?", "Which nutrients does cannabis need?", "What are the essential elements for plants?", "What are secondary nutrients?", "Is silica a nutrient?" ], "topic": "nutrients", "intent": "definition", "answer": "Macronutrients are the elements cannabis needs in large amounts: nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium (primary) plus calcium, magnesium and sulfur (secondary), fed at roughly 30-250 mg/L each. Micronutrients are needed in traces, under about 3 mg/L: iron, manganese, zinc, copper, boron, molybdenum, plus chloride and nickel. Carbon, hydrogen and oxygen come from air and water. Silicon is beneficial, not essential.", "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "parent": "kb-nutrients-mobile-vs-immobile-nutrients", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/macro-vs-micronutrients.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/macro-vs-micronutrients.md", "qa": [ "Which nutrients are mobile and immobile?", "Are micronutrients less important than macronutrients?", "Is silica an essential nutrient for cannabis?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-measure-ppfd-without-a-par-meter", "question": "How can I measure PPFD without a PAR meter?", "phrasings": [ "Can I use a phone light meter app for PPFD?", "How do I convert lux to PPFD?", "Do I need a PAR meter?", "How do I know how much light my plants get?" ], "topic": "environment", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "Without a PAR meter, estimate PPFD from the fixture's published PPFD map at your hanging height, cross-check with watts × µmol/J ÷ canopy area, and use a phone or lux meter only for comparisons. Lux-to-PPFD conversion depends on spectrum (about 54 lux per µmol/m²/s in sunlight) and phone apps are often off by 20 % or more. Watch the top leaves to confirm.", "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "parent": "kb-environment-ppfd-dli-by-stage", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/measure-ppfd-without-a-par-meter.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/measure-ppfd-without-a-par-meter.md", "qa": [ "How accurate are phone PPFD apps?", "How do I convert lux to PPFD?", "Is a PAR meter worth buying?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-meters-you-need-for-growing", "question": "What meters do I actually need for growing?", "phrasings": [ "What are the essential grow meters?", "Do I need a pH pen, EC meter and hygrometer?", "Do I need a PAR meter?", "Which meters are worth buying for a first grow?" ], "topic": "equipment", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "For a first grow you need three meters: a pH meter calibrated with pH 7 and pH 4 buffers, an EC meter checked against a 1.413 mS/cm standard, and a thermo-hygrometer with min/max memory, salt-tested for accuracy. An IR thermometer is a cheap fourth. A PAR meter is worth it once you grow regularly. A meter you don't calibrate is worse than none.", "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "parent": "kb-ph-ec-meter-calibration", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/meters-you-need-for-growing.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/meters-you-need-for-growing.md", "qa": [ "Do I need a pH meter for soil?", "Is a TDS meter good enough instead of an EC meter?", "How long does a pH probe last?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-mould-in-curing-jars", "question": "My buds got mouldy in the jar: what now?", "phrasings": [ "Mould in my curing jars", "Moldy buds after cure: can I save them?", "Fuzzy buds in the jar", "White fuzz on buds in jar" ], "topic": "diseases", "intent": "troubleshooting", "answer": "Mouldy buds in a curing jar must be thrown away, not trimmed and smoked. Mouldy flower carries spores and possible mycotoxins. Bin every bud with fuzz, grey dust or brown inner tissue, then open every other jar and check it. Spread the rest out to dry until a sealed sample reads a stable 55–65% RH (water activity 0.55–0.65). Jar mould usually means buds went in too wet.", "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "parent": "kb-diseases-botrytis-bud-rot", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/mould-in-curing-jars.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/mould-in-curing-jars.md", "qa": [ "Can I cut the mould off and keep the rest of the bud?", "Why did my buds go mouldy in the jar?", "Are the other buds in the jar safe?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-neem-oil-in-flower", "question": "Can I use neem oil in flower?", "phrasings": [ "Is neem oil safe on buds?", "Can I spray neem during flowering?", "Neem oil in late flower", "Is neem oil safe because it's natural?", "When should I stop using neem oil?" ], "topic": "pests", "intent": "myth", "answer": "No: neem oil does not belong on cannabis in flower. 'Natural, so it's safe on buds' is a myth. Neem leaves an oily, bitter residue on resin, wet buds invite bud rot, and azadirachtin (crude neem's active) is one of 96 actives Canada tests licensed cannabis for. Use neem only in veg, and stop all oil sprays before flowers form, roughly by the end of the 10–14 day transition.", "evidence": "myth", "evidence_name": "Myth", "parent": "kb-pests-spider-mites", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/neem-oil-in-flower.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/neem-oil-in-flower.md", "qa": [ "When is the last time I can spray neem oil?", "Is clarified neem oil safer in flower than crude neem?", "What can I use instead of neem in flower?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-opening-tent-during-dark-period", "question": "Can I open my tent during the dark period?", "phrasings": [ "Can I use a green light during the dark period?", "Can I check my plants at night in flower?", "Does opening the tent interrupt the dark cycle?", "How dark does a flowering tent need to be?" ], "topic": "environment", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "You can open a flowering tent during the dark period only if the room outside is dark too, and briefly. Light in the dark period, even very dim, can delay or weaken flowering: delays have been reported from about 2 µmol/m²/s in hemp and 0.01 µmol/m²/s in sensitive cannabis. If you must work, use a dim green headlamp for a few minutes. In veg, it doesn't matter.", "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "parent": "kb-environment-photoperiod-light-leaks", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/opening-tent-during-dark-period.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/opening-tent-during-dark-period.md", "qa": [ "Is green light safe during the dark period?", "Will one minute of light ruin flowering?", "Does opening the tent at night cause hermaphrodites?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-order-to-mix-nutrients", "question": "In what order should I mix nutrients?", "phrasings": [ "What is the right nutrient mixing order?", "Does silica go in first?", "Part A or part B first?", "Why do I add silica first when mixing nutrients?", "When do I add Cal-Mag?" ], "topic": "nutrients", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "Mix nutrients into the full volume of water in this order: silica first, then Cal-Mag or part A, then part B, then any additives, stirring between each, and adjust pH last. Silica first because it is strongly alkaline (pH about 11-12). Calcium and the sulfates and phosphates in part B must meet only once diluted, or they precipitate. Then check EC against your target.", "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "parent": "kb-nutrients-hydroponic-salts", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/order-to-mix-nutrients.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/order-to-mix-nutrients.md", "qa": [ "Why do I add silica first when mixing nutrients?", "Does part A or part B go in first?", "When should I add pH down?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-outdoor-short-season", "question": "How do I grow outdoors in a short northern season?", "phrasings": [ "Short-season outdoor growing", "Growing cannabis outdoors in a cold climate", "Outdoor grow in Canada or northern Europe", "What finishes before frost up north?", "Outdoor growing at 50 degrees latitude" ], "topic": "outdoor", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "To grow outdoors in a short northern season (roughly 50° latitude and above, with frost by late September or October), pick plants that finish by late September: autoflowers, or early-finishing photoperiod lines. Start indoors 3–6 weeks before last frost, harden off, plant out in early June, and use a greenhouse, hoop cover or light deprivation to dodge autumn rain. Check local rules first.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-basics-life-cycle", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/outdoor-short-season.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/outdoor-short-season.md", "qa": [ "Why do outdoor plants finish late up north?", "Are autoflowers best for short northern seasons?", "Does a greenhouse help in a short season?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-outdoor-soil-and-pot-size", "question": "How should I prepare soil or pots for outdoor plants?", "phrasings": [ "How big a hole for an outdoor cannabis plant?", "Should I grow in the ground or in pots outdoors?", "What size container for outdoor cannabis?", "How do I amend clay soil for cannabis?", "Can I use garden soil in pots?" ], "topic": "outdoor", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "For outdoor cannabis in the ground, dig a hole about 60–90 cm (2–3 ft) wide and 45–60 cm (18–24 in) deep, mix in compost and perlite or pumice, and aim for soil pH 6.0–7.0 with good drainage. In containers, use potting mix, not garden soil: about 75–380 L (20–100 US gal) for full-season photoperiods and 11–25 L (3–7 US gal) for autoflowers. Bigger holds more water.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-systems-soil", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/outdoor-soil-and-pot-size.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/outdoor-soil-and-pot-size.md", "qa": [ "Is it better to grow cannabis in the ground or in pots outdoors?", "How do I grow cannabis in clay soil?", "Can I use garden soil in containers?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-ph-before-or-after-nutrients", "question": "Should I pH my water before or after adding nutrients?", "phrasings": [ "Do I pH after adding nutrients?", "When should I pH my water?", "Should I pH first, then add nutes?", "Why does my pH meter drift?", "When should I replace my pH probe?" ], "topic": "ph-ec", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "Adjust pH after adding nutrients. Fertiliser salts, and silica most of all, change the solution's pH, so adjusting plain water first means adjusting twice. Mix everything, stir, then bring the feed to about pH 5.5-6.2 for hydro, 5.8-6.3 for coco or 6.2-6.8 for soil. In hydro, aerate a fresh mix 30-60 minutes before the final reading. Calibrate the meter first.", "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "parent": "kb-ph-ec-ph-nutrient-availability", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/ph-before-or-after-nutrients.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/ph-before-or-after-nutrients.md", "qa": [ "Why does my pH meter drift?", "When should I replace my pH probe?", "Should I measure pH of plain water at all?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-ph-drops-vs-ph-meter", "question": "Are pH test drops accurate enough?", "phrasings": [ "pH drops vs a pH pen: which is better?", "Is a liquid pH test kit good enough?", "Are pH strips accurate?", "Do I need a digital pH meter?", "Why don't my drops match my meter?" ], "topic": "ph-ec", "intent": "comparison", "answer": "pH test drops and strips are accurate enough for soil and rough water checks, but not for hydro or coco. Colour kits read in steps of roughly 0.5 pH unit and are hard to judge in coloured nutrient solution, while hydro's working band, 5.5-6.2, is only 0.7 wide. A calibrated digital meter reads to 0.1 or better. Use drops as a backup that catches a failing meter.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-ph-ec-meter-calibration", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/ph-drops-vs-ph-meter.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/ph-drops-vs-ph-meter.md", "qa": [ "Are pH strips accurate for nutrient solution?", "Why don't my pH drops match my meter?", "What kind of pH meter should I buy?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-pistils-turning-brown-early", "question": "Why are my pistils turning brown early?", "phrasings": [ "Why are my hairs turning orange early?", "Pistils brown in week 4 of flower", "Early pistil browning", "Are brown pistils a sign of harvest?" ], "topic": "diagnosis", "intent": "troubleshooting", "answer": "Pistils that brown early, before about week 6 of flower, have usually been pollinated, heat- or light-stressed near the lamp, handled, or are the cultivar's normal colour. They are not a harvest signal by themselves. Check the buds nearest the light (leaf temperature under about 30 °C / 86 °F), look for seeds and anthers, and judge ripeness by calyx trichomes under 60–100× magnification.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-harvest-cure-trichome-ripeness", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/pistils-turning-brown-early.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/pistils-turning-brown-early.md", "qa": [ "Do brown pistils mean my plant was pollinated?", "Can I harvest when most pistils are brown?", "Can bud rot make pistils turn brown?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-plant-straight-into-final-pot", "question": "Can I plant seeds straight into the final pot?", "phrasings": [ "Can I direct sow into the final pot?", "Can I skip transplanting?", "Is it OK to start a seedling in a big pot?", "Should autoflowers go straight in the final pot?" ], "topic": "germination", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "Yes. You can plant cannabis seeds straight into the final pot, and for autoflowers it's the GenetixBay house position: sow into an 11–15 L final pot, because any setback costs an auto time. Photoperiods can be sown direct too. The catch is watering: wet only a small circle around the seedling for the first 2–3 weeks, or the big unrooted volume stays soggy.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-germination-transplanting", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/plant-straight-into-final-pot.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/plant-straight-into-final-pot.md", "qa": [ "Should autoflowers be sown in the final pot?", "How do I water a seedling in a big pot?", "Does pot size limit yield?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-plant-too-tall-for-tent", "question": "My plant is too tall for my tent: what can I do?", "phrasings": [ "My plant is hitting the light", "My plant is too tall in flower", "I'm running out of height in my tent", "How do I lower a tall cannabis plant?" ], "topic": "training", "intent": "troubleshooting", "answer": "If your plant is too tall for the tent, bend it rather than cut it. In veg or the first two weeks of flower, supercrop or tie the tallest tops down and outward; later, bend and tie woody tops sideways. Raise or dim the light so tops get no more than about 1,200 µmol/m²/s, drop the pot off any riser, and next time flip at half the final height.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-training-lst", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/plant-too-tall-for-tent.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/plant-too-tall-for-tent.md", "qa": [ "How close can buds be to an LED?", "Can I cut the top off a plant in flower?", "How much will my plant stretch after the flip?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-praying-leaves", "question": "Are praying leaves a good sign?", "phrasings": [ "Why are my leaves pointing up?", "What do praying leaves mean?", "Leaves raised towards the light", "Praying or heat stress?" ], "topic": "diagnosis", "intent": "troubleshooting", "answer": "Praying leaves, with fan leaves angled upwards and the blades flat, usually mean a cannabis plant is well watered and getting good light. It is a good sign, but not proof of perfect health. If the leaf edges curl up into a taco near the lamp, that is heat or light stress: keep leaf temperature under about 30 °C (86 °F). Leaves often lower again at night, which is normal.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-diagnosis-drooping-overwatering-vs-underwatering", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/praying-leaves.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/praying-leaves.md", "qa": [ "What is the difference between praying and tacoing?", "Why do my leaves pray in the morning and drop at night?", "Do praying leaves mean my plant is happy?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-quick-drying-methods", "question": "Can I quick-dry buds in an oven, microwave or paper bag?", "phrasings": [ "How do I quick-dry weed?", "Can I microwave buds to dry them?", "Does paper bag drying work?", "Fastest way to dry buds" ], "topic": "harvest-cure", "intent": "myth", "answer": "Quick-drying cannabis in an oven or microwave makes harsh, grassy flower and drives off the volatile terpenes a slow dry keeps; the idea that it is a harmless shortcut is a Myth. Paper bags are a slow method, not a fast one, and work for small amounts in a dry room if turned daily. For good flower, dry in the dark for 7–14 days at 15–21 °C and 55–62% RH.", "evidence": "myth", "evidence_name": "Myth", "parent": "kb-harvest-cure-drying", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/quick-drying-methods.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/quick-drying-methods.md", "qa": [ "Does microwaving weed ruin it?", "Is paper bag drying good for cannabis?", "Is freeze drying a good way to dry cannabis fast?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-recovery-after-topping", "question": "How long does a plant take to recover after topping?", "phrasings": [ "How long is topping recovery time?", "Is my plant stressed after topping?", "How long after topping does it start growing again?", "When can I flip after topping?" ], "topic": "training", "intent": "numbers", "answer": "A healthy cannabis plant takes about 3–7 days after topping before the two new shoots show visible regrowth, and roughly a week until they grow at equal speed. Allow 5–10 days of recovery before flipping, and do the last top at least 7–10 days before 12/12. Stressed, root-bound or very young plants recover more slowly.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-training-topping", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/recovery-after-topping.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/recovery-after-topping.md", "qa": [ "Why has my plant stopped growing after topping?", "Can I top again before the plant recovers?", "How long should I wait after topping to flip to flower?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-rehydrate-over-dried-buds", "question": "How do I rehydrate over-dried buds?", "phrasings": [ "My buds are too dry: what can I do?", "How to rehydrate weed", "Over-dried, crispy buds", "Can I use a humidity pack to rehydrate?" ], "topic": "harvest-cure", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "To rehydrate over-dried buds, seal them in a jar with a fresh, slightly moister bud for about a day, then check that the equilibrated jar reads 55–62% RH (water activity 0.55–0.62). This restores the feel, not the lost aroma: a cure never fixes a bad dry. GenetixBay doesn't recommend humidity packs, which rob terpenes, or fruit peel and lettuce, which add mould risk and off-flavours.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-harvest-cure-curing-burping", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/rehydrate-over-dried-buds.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/rehydrate-over-dried-buds.md", "qa": [ "Do humidity packs fix over-dried buds?", "Does orange peel or lettuce rehydrate buds?", "Can over-dried buds be saved?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-rooting-clones-in-water", "question": "Can I root clones in plain water?", "phrasings": [ "Can I clone in a glass of water?", "Water cloning cannabis", "Cuttings in a cup of water", "Do water roots survive in soil?" ], "topic": "cloning", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "Yes. Cannabis cuttings can root in plain water, usually in 10–21 days, but results are less even than in a plug or aeroponic cloner. Keep the water dark, at 20–24 °C (68–75 °F), change it every 2–3 days, and add an air stone if you can. Move them to medium when roots are 2–5 cm (1–2 in) long; long water roots transplant badly.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-breeding-clone-only-preservation", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/rooting-clones-in-water.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/rooting-clones-in-water.md", "qa": [ "Why do water-rooted clones struggle after transplanting?", "How often should I change the water for clones?", "Is an aeroponic cloner better than a glass of water?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-run-exhaust-fan-24-7", "question": "Should my exhaust fan run 24/7?", "phrasings": [ "Should the exhaust fan run all the time?", "Should I turn my fans off when the lights are off?", "Can I put my inline fan on a timer?", "Exhaust fan at night in flower" ], "topic": "environment", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "Yes, in most vented tents the exhaust fan should run 24/7, slowed by a temperature and humidity controller rather than switched off. Lights-off is when humidity spikes and, in flower, when smell builds, so an off fan invites bud rot and odour. Circulation fans should always run 24 hours. The exception is a sealed CO₂ room, where exhaust stays off during lights-on.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-environment-airflow", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/run-exhaust-fan-24-7.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/run-exhaust-fan-24-7.md", "qa": [ "Can I turn the exhaust fan off at night to keep the tent warm?", "Should circulation fans run at night?", "Is a fan speed controller better than a timer?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-seed-shell-stuck-on-seedling", "question": "What do I do if the seed shell is stuck on my seedling?", "phrasings": [ "Helmet head seedling, what do I do?", "Seed husk stuck on the leaves", "How do I remove the shell from a seedling?", "Seedling can't open its leaves" ], "topic": "germination", "intent": "troubleshooting", "answer": "A seed shell stuck on a cannabis seedling (helmet head) usually comes off by itself within a day or two. Mist it, keep the air humid at 65–75% RH, wait 24–48 hours, then ease it off gently only if it is still trapping the leaves. Pulling a dry shell can snap the cotyledons or stem. It is most often caused by planting too shallow or a surface that dried out.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-germination-seedling-care", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/seed-shell-stuck-on-seedling.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/seed-shell-stuck-on-seedling.md", "qa": [ "Should I pull the seed shell off my seedling?", "Why does the seed shell get stuck?", "Will a seedling die if the shell stays on?" ], "sources_count": 2, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-seedling-leaves-yellow", "question": "Why are my seedling's leaves yellow or pale?", "phrasings": [ "Why is my seedling yellow?", "Pale seedling leaves", "Seedling cotyledons turning yellow", "Yellow seedling in coco" ], "topic": "germination", "intent": "troubleshooting", "answer": "Yellow or pale cannabis seedling leaves usually mean overwatering, too little light, or hunger in an inert medium. Cotyledons yellowing around days 10–14 is often normal as true leaves take over. Check the pot weight and PPFD (150–300 µmol/m²/s) first; in coco, rockwool or hydro, start a light feed at EC 0.4–0.8 mS/cm (200–400 ppm500). Soil seedlings rarely need feed before 2–3 weeks.", "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "parent": "kb-germination-seedling-care", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/seedling-leaves-yellow.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/seedling-leaves-yellow.md", "qa": [ "Is it normal for cotyledons to turn yellow?", "Can overwatering make seedlings yellow?", "Should I feed a yellow seedling?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-should-i-mist-my-plants", "question": "Should I mist my plants?", "phrasings": [ "Should I spray my cannabis leaves with water?", "Is misting cannabis good?", "Does a water spray on leaves raise humidity?", "Should I mist seedlings or clones?" ], "topic": "environment", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "Don't mist established cannabis plants, and never mist buds in flower. A spray of water raises humidity for minutes, not hours, and wet leaves and buds invite powdery mildew and bud rot. Misting is useful only for unrooted clones under a dome, at 75–90 % RH. To raise humidity for growing plants, use a humidifier on a humidistat or slow the exhaust.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-environment-humidity-by-stage", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/should-i-mist-my-plants.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/should-i-mist-my-plants.md", "qa": [ "Does misting raise humidity in a grow tent?", "Should I mist clones?", "Can I spray buds with water in flower?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-should-i-wash-my-buds", "question": "Should I wash my buds after harvest?", "phrasings": [ "Should I do a bud wash?", "Washing buds with hydrogen peroxide", "Rinse buds after harvest", "Can washing remove powdery mildew from buds?" ], "topic": "diseases", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "Wash buds only if they are dirty, such as outdoor plants covered in dust, ash, pollen or insects. Washing doesn't rescue buds with powdery mildew or bud rot, and no study shows it removes mould. If you do wash, shake the water off at once and hang the buds in moving air so the extra water doesn't start mould. Indoor plants from a clean room don't need washing.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-diseases-powdery-mildew", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/should-i-wash-my-buds.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/should-i-wash-my-buds.md", "qa": [ "Does washing buds remove powdery mildew?", "Is a hydrogen peroxide bud wash safe?", "Will washing buds wash off trichomes or terpenes?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-single-finger-leaves-reveg", "question": "Why is my plant growing single-finger leaves?", "phrasings": [ "Is my plant revegging?", "Round, single-blade leaves on my plant", "Revegging plant in flower", "Smooth leaves with no serrations" ], "topic": "diagnosis", "intent": "troubleshooting", "answer": "Single-finger, rounded leaves on a cannabis plant usually mean it is revegging: switching from flowering back to vegetative growth because its nights became too short or were broken by light. Common causes are light leaks in flower, timer faults, outdoor plants put out under short spring days, and clones cut from flowering plants. Keep the dark period truly dark, below about 0.01–2 µmol/m²/s.", "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "parent": "kb-environment-photoperiod-light-leaks", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/single-finger-leaves-reveg.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/single-finger-leaves-reveg.md", "qa": [ "How long does revegging take?", "Why are my outdoor plants growing single-blade leaves?", "Are single-finger leaves normal on clones?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-small-white-bugs-in-soil", "question": "What are the small white bugs in my soil?", "phrasings": [ "Are these springtails?", "Tiny white bugs jumping in my soil", "Small white mites in my soil", "White bugs crawling when I water", "Are white soil bugs harmful to cannabis?" ], "topic": "pests", "intent": "troubleshooting", "answer": "Small white bugs in cannabis soil that jump when disturbed are almost always springtails: about 1.5 mm (1/16 in), harmless scavengers of wet, organic media. Slow, round specks are soil mites, often harmless or predatory. The ones that matter are worm-like larvae with a shiny black head (fungus gnats) and pale aphids clustered on roots (root aphids). Tip the plant out and look at the roots.", "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "parent": "kb-pests-fungus-gnats", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/small-white-bugs-in-soil.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/small-white-bugs-in-soil.md", "qa": [ "Are springtails bad for cannabis?", "How do I tell springtails from root aphids?", "How do I get rid of springtails?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-start-indoors-move-outside", "question": "Can I start plants indoors and move them outside?", "phrasings": [ "Can I start inside and move outside?", "How do I harden off cannabis plants?", "Transplanting cannabis outdoors", "Will my indoor plant flower when I put it outside?", "How long to harden off seedlings?" ], "topic": "outdoor", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "Yes: starting photoperiod cannabis indoors 3–6 weeks before your last frost and moving it outside is standard practice, if you harden it off over 7–14 days. Keep it on long days indoors (18 h or more), and move it out only once natural days are about 14.5 hours or longer, or it may flower and re-veg. Autoflowers should start in the final container, which you carry outside.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-germination-transplanting", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/start-indoors-move-outside.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/start-indoors-move-outside.md", "qa": [ "How do I harden off cannabis seedlings?", "Will my plant flower when I move it outside?", "Can I start autoflowers indoors and move them outside?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-strain-vs-cultivar", "question": "What is the difference between a strain and a cultivar?", "phrasings": [ "Strain vs cultivar", "What is a cultivar?", "Chemovar vs strain", "Why do people say cultivar instead of strain?" ], "topic": "basics", "intent": "definition", "answer": "A cultivar is a formal botanical term: a cultivated plant group that is distinct, uniform and stable when propagated, by seed or cuttings. A strain is the popular cannabis word, used loosely for anything from one clone to a brand name. A chemovar is a cultivar defined by its chemistry. Genetic studies show many strain names don't reliably mean one genotype.", "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "parent": "kb-genetics-history-why-strain-names-are-unreliable", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/strain-vs-cultivar.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/strain-vs-cultivar.md", "qa": [ "What is a chemovar?", "Is a clone-only a cultivar?", "Is a seed strain a cultivar?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-tds-meter-vs-ec-meter", "question": "Is a TDS meter the same as an EC meter?", "phrasings": [ "TDS vs EC: what's the difference?", "Are ppm meters accurate?", "What does a TDS meter actually measure?", "Is my meter 500 or 700 scale?", "Should I use ppm or EC?" ], "topic": "ph-ec", "intent": "comparison", "answer": "Yes, essentially. A TDS or ppm meter measures electrical conductivity (EC) and multiplies it by an assumed factor: 0.5 on the 500 scale, 0.7 on the 700 scale, sometimes 0.64. So 1.0 mS/cm reads 500 ppm on one meter and 700 on another. The ppm figure is an estimate, not your nutrients' real concentration. Read and talk in EC, or always state the scale.", "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "parent": "kb-ph-ec-ec-ppm-scales", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/tds-meter-vs-ec-meter.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/tds-meter-vs-ec-meter.md", "qa": [ "Is my meter 500 or 700 scale?", "How do I convert ppm to EC?", "Is TDS ppm the same as ppm of nitrogen on a recipe?" ], "sources_count": 2, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-thc-vs-cbd-plants", "question": "What is the difference between THC and CBD plants?", "phrasings": [ "THC vs CBD plant", "CBD strain vs THC strain", "Hemp CBD vs THC cannabis", "How is the THC to CBD ratio inherited?", "Can a 1:1 THC:CBD plant breed true?" ], "topic": "basics", "intent": "definition", "answer": "THC and CBD plants are the same species; the difference is which enzyme turns the shared precursor CBGA into cannabinoid acids. THC-dominant plants carry working THCA synthase, CBD-dominant plants CBDA synthase, and mixed 1:1 plants one of each. The trait is inherited as one near-codominant block, so THC x CBD gives mixed F1s and a 1:2:1 split in the F2.", "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "parent": "kb-breeding-chemotype-inheritance", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/thc-vs-cbd-plants.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/thc-vs-cbd-plants.md", "qa": [ "How is the THC to CBD ratio inherited?", "Can a 1:1 THC:CBD plant breed true?", "Do CBD plants contain any THC?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-top-off-reservoir-water-or-nutrients", "question": "Should I top off my reservoir with plain water or nutrient solution?", "phrasings": [ "Should I top off with plain water?", "How do I top up my DWC reservoir?", "What EC should my reservoir top-off be?", "Top off with nutrients or just water?", "Why does my reservoir EC go up when the water level drops?" ], "topic": "systems", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "Let the reservoir's EC decide what you top off a hydro reservoir with. If EC has risen since the last check, top off with plain, pH-adjusted water; if it holds steady, top off with solution at the reservoir's current EC; if it falls, the plants are hungry, so use solution at full target strength. Without a meter, plain or quarter-strength water is the safe default. Refresh fully every 7–14 days.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-systems-dwc", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/top-off-reservoir-water-or-nutrients.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/top-off-reservoir-water-or-nutrients.md", "qa": [ "Why does my reservoir EC rise as the water drops?", "Why does my reservoir EC keep dropping?", "How often should I change the reservoir if I top it off?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-use-regular-plant-fertiliser", "question": "Can I use regular garden fertiliser on cannabis?", "phrasings": [ "Can I use tomato fertiliser for weed?", "Is all-purpose plant food OK for cannabis?", "Can I use slow-release fertiliser on cannabis?", "Do I need special cannabis nutrients?", "Can I use lawn fertiliser?" ], "topic": "nutrients", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "Yes, regular garden fertiliser works on cannabis in soil, because roots take up the same ions whatever the label says. Pick a complete feed with calcium, magnesium and micronutrients, and dose by element: aim for roughly 150-200 mg/L nitrogen in veg and 30-60 mg/L phosphorus. All-purpose feeds suit veg, tomato feeds suit flower. Avoid lawn feeds with herbicides, and use fully soluble salts in hydro.", "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "parent": "kb-nutrients-feed-by-stage", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/use-regular-plant-fertiliser.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/use-regular-plant-fertiliser.md", "qa": [ "Is tomato feed good for cannabis in flower?", "Can I use slow-release fertiliser pellets on cannabis?", "Why shouldn't I use lawn fertiliser on cannabis?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-vinegar-or-lemon-to-lower-ph", "question": "Can I use vinegar or lemon juice to lower pH?", "phrasings": [ "Can I use vinegar as pH down?", "Does lemon juice lower pH for plants?", "Is citric acid a good pH down?", "Natural pH down for cannabis", "Homemade pH down" ], "topic": "ph-ec", "intent": "myth", "answer": "You can, but you shouldn't: the idea that vinegar or lemon juice is a fine pH down is a Myth. In a hydroponic trial, vinegar cut yields of lettuce, basil and Swiss chard, and lime juice cut basil and chard yields, while a mineral pH down held pH most steadily with the least product. Kitchen acids are weak and rebound. Use phosphoric, nitric or sulfuric acid.", "evidence": "myth", "evidence_name": "Myth", "parent": "kb-ph-ec-water-quality", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/vinegar-or-lemon-to-lower-ph.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/vinegar-or-lemon-to-lower-ph.md", "qa": [ "Why does pH go back up after adding lemon juice?", "Is citric acid OK in soil?", "What is the best pH down for cannabis?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-water-at-lights-on-or-off", "question": "Should I water when the lights come on or before they go off?", "phrasings": [ "What is the best time to water cannabis?", "Can I water at night?", "Is it bad to water at lights-off?", "Water in the morning or evening indoors?" ], "topic": "systems", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "Water cannabis soon after the lights come on, ideally within the first 1–3 hours. Plants transpire mostly in the light, so a morning watering is used during the day and the pot dries back overnight. Watering just before lights-off leaves a wet, cool pot in the dark, which slows dryback, raises humidity and favours fungus gnats and root rot. Drip-fed coco stops irrigating 2–6 hours before lights-off.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-diagnosis-drooping-overwatering-vs-underwatering", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/water-at-lights-on-or-off.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/water-at-lights-on-or-off.md", "qa": [ "Is it bad to water just before lights-off?", "Can I water during the dark period if my plant is wilting?", "When should the last irrigation be in coco?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-water-runs-through-or-pools", "question": "Why does water run straight through or pool on top of my pot?", "phrasings": [ "Why is water not soaking into my soil?", "Is my soil hydrophobic?", "Why is water pooling on top of my soil?", "Water runs out the bottom straight away" ], "topic": "systems", "intent": "troubleshooting", "answer": "Water runs straight through a pot when the mix has dried out, shrunk from the wall and turned water-repellent, so water channels down the sides and out the bottom while the root ball stays dry. Water pools on top when the surface is crusted or compacted, the mix is too fine, or drainage holes are blocked. Fix both by watering slowly in 2–3 passes or bottom-soaking for 20–30 minutes.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-diagnosis-drooping-overwatering-vs-underwatering", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/water-runs-through-or-pools.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/water-runs-through-or-pools.md", "qa": [ "How do I rewet bone-dry soil or coco?", "Why does water pool on my soil?", "Is it a problem if water runs straight out the bottom?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-weak-floppy-stems", "question": "Why are my stems weak and floppy?", "phrasings": [ "Why are my cannabis stems so weak?", "My plant keeps falling over", "Thin, stretchy stems on seedlings", "Branches can't hold the buds up" ], "topic": "diagnosis", "intent": "troubleshooting", "answer": "Weak, floppy cannabis stems usually come from too little light, which makes plants stretch, and too little air movement, because stems thicken in response to being moved. Give seedlings and veg plants enough light, run a fan so leaves flutter gently at about 0.3–1.0 m/s, and support heavy flowering branches with a trellis or stakes. If the whole plant wilts, check the watering first.", "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "parent": "kb-environment-airflow", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/weak-floppy-stems.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/weak-floppy-stems.md", "qa": [ "Does a fan make cannabis stems stronger?", "Why are my seedlings tall and floppy?", "How do I hold up heavy buds?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-what-are-pistils", "question": "What are pistils?", "phrasings": [ "Pistils meaning", "White hairs on buds", "Stigmas on cannabis", "Why are my pistils turning orange?" ], "topic": "basics", "intent": "definition", "answer": "Pistils are the female reproductive organs of cannabis flowers. The white or coloured 'hairs' growers call pistils are strictly the stigmas: each female flower has two, sticking out of its bract to catch pollen. They appear first at the nodes as preflowers, then by the hundred in buds, and darken through orange or brown with age, heat or pollination. Judge harvest by trichomes, not pistil colour.", "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "parent": "kb-basics-cannabis-plant-biology", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/what-are-pistils.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/what-are-pistils.md", "qa": [ "When do pistils first appear?", "Why are my pistils turning brown?", "Should I harvest when 70% of pistils are brown?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-what-are-terpenes", "question": "What are terpenes in cannabis?", "phrasings": [ "What do terpenes do?", "Terpenes meaning", "Why does weed smell?", "What are the main terpene profiles in cannabis?", "Does irradiation destroy terpenes?" ], "topic": "basics", "intent": "definition", "answer": "Terpenes are the volatile aroma compounds cannabis makes in its glandular trichomes, alongside cannabinoids; myrcene, limonene, caryophyllene, pinene and terpinolene are common. Total terpenes average about 2% of flower weight. In nearly 90,000 US lab results, THC-dominant flower fell into three terpene groups. The 'gas' smell comes mostly from trace sulfur compounds, not terpenes. Terpenes evaporate, so drying and storage matter.", "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "parent": "kb-genetics-history-why-everything-tastes-the-same", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/what-are-terpenes.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/what-are-terpenes.md", "qa": [ "What are the main terpene profiles in cannabis?", "Does irradiation destroy terpenes?", "Do terpenes change the effects of cannabis?" ], "sources_count": 5, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-what-can-i-spray-in-flower", "question": "What can I safely spray on plants in flower?", "phrasings": [ "What can I spray during flowering?", "Is it safe to spray buds?", "What is the last day to spray in flower?", "Can I foliar spray in flower?", "Spray for pests in late flower" ], "topic": "pests", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "On cannabis in flower, the safe default is to spray nothing on buds. Stop oils, soaps, sulfur and bicarbonates by the first 2–3 weeks of flower; after that, wet buds invite botrytis and residues stay in the product. Outdoors, Bt for small caterpillars is one of the few options, only where registered for cannabis. Otherwise rely on beneficials, removal and climate, and harvest early if needed.", "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "parent": "kb-diseases-sanitation-and-prevention", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/what-can-i-spray-in-flower.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/what-can-i-spray-in-flower.md", "qa": [ "When is the last day I can spray in flower?", "Can I spray Bt on buds for caterpillars?", "Can I spray plain water on buds?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-what-does-npk-mean", "question": "What does N-P-K mean on a fertiliser label?", "phrasings": [ "What do the NPK numbers mean?", "What is a 10-10-10 fertiliser?", "P2O5 vs P: what's the difference?", "How do I convert NPK to ppm?", "Is the middle number on the bottle phosphorus?" ], "topic": "nutrients", "intent": "definition", "answer": "N-P-K on a fertiliser label is the guaranteed percentage by weight of nitrogen (N), phosphate (P2O5) and potash (K2O). Only the N figure is the actual element. Multiply the middle number by 0.44 for elemental phosphorus and the last by 0.83 for potassium, so a 10-10-10 holds 10% N, about 4.4% P and 8.3% K. Cannabis feed targets and research use elements in mg/L, not oxides.", "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "parent": "kb-nutrients-feed-by-stage", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/what-does-npk-mean.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/what-does-npk-mean.md", "qa": [ "How do I convert an NPK label to ppm?", "What is a good NPK ratio for flowering cannabis?", "Why do labels use P2O5 and K2O instead of P and K?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-what-is-a-node", "question": "What is a node on a cannabis plant?", "phrasings": [ "What is a node?", "Nodes and internodes", "How to count nodes", "Where are the nodes on a weed plant?" ], "topic": "basics", "intent": "definition", "answer": "A node on a cannabis plant is the point on a stem where a leaf and its axillary bud attach; branches, flowers, preflowers and clone roots all start there. The stem between two nodes is the internode. Count nodes upward from the cotyledons, which are not counted. Topping is usually done above the 3rd to 5th node, and preflowers often appear around the 4th to 7th.", "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "parent": "kb-basics-cannabis-plant-biology", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/what-is-a-node.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/what-is-a-node.md", "qa": [ "How do I count nodes on a cannabis plant?", "What is an internode?", "Why do nodes switch from opposite to alternate?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-what-is-schwazzing", "question": "What is schwazzing?", "phrasings": [ "What is schwazzing defoliation?", "Should I strip all the leaves twice in flower?", "Does schwazzing increase yield?", "Day 1 and day 21 defoliation" ], "topic": "training", "intent": "definition", "answer": "Schwazzing is an aggressive defoliation schedule that strips almost every fan leaf at the start of flower and again around day 21. Proponents say it pushes light into bud sites; no controlled cannabis trial shows it raises yield or cannabinoids. GenetixBay's position is tuck, don't pluck: strip within reason if you must, never on stressed plants or autoflowers.", "evidence": "contested", "evidence_name": "Contested", "parent": "kb-training-defoliation-lollipopping", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/what-is-schwazzing.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/what-is-schwazzing.md", "qa": [ "Does schwazzing increase yield?", "Should I schwazz an autoflower?", "How is schwazzing different from lollipopping?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-what-is-super-soil", "question": "What is super soil?", "phrasings": [ "What is a super soil recipe?", "Super soil vs living soil", "Is super soil just add water?", "Can seedlings go in super soil?" ], "topic": "systems", "intent": "definition", "answer": "Super soil is a heavily amended organic soil, rich in compost, worm castings and slow-release amendments, cooked moist for weeks and meant to feed a cannabis plant through most of its life with plain water. It is usually layered: a strong layer low in the pot, milder soil on top for young roots. Many growers still top-dress in mid flower.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-systems-living-soil", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/what-is-super-soil.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/what-is-super-soil.md", "qa": [ "What is the difference between super soil and living soil?", "Can I plant seedlings directly in super soil?", "Do I need to pH water for super soil?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-what-is-thca", "question": "What is THCA?", "phrasings": [ "THCA vs THC", "Is THCA the same as THC?", "Does raw weed have THC?", "What does total THC mean on a label?" ], "topic": "basics", "intent": "definition", "answer": "THCA (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid) is the acid form of THC that the living cannabis plant actually makes and stores in its trichome heads. Fresh and dried flower is mostly THCA, not THC. Heat (smoking, vaping, baking) removes a CO2 molecule and turns THCA into THC. Labels report total THC = THC + 0.877 × THCA, so 30% THCA means about 26% total THC.", "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "parent": "kb-basics-buyer-beware-label-claims", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/what-is-thca.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/what-is-thca.md", "qa": [ "How is total THC calculated?", "Does raw cannabis contain THC?", "Can flower really test 35% THCA?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-what-size-grow-tent", "question": "What size grow tent should I get?", "phrasings": [ "Should I get a 2x4 or 4x4 tent?", "What is the best grow tent size for a beginner?", "What size grow tent for 2 plants?", "How tall should my grow tent be?" ], "topic": "equipment", "intent": "numbers", "answer": "For a first grow, a 60 × 60 cm (2 × 2 ft) to 90 × 90 cm (3 × 3 ft) tent, 160–180 cm (5.3–6 ft) tall, is the forgiving choice: one to three plants and a 100–320 W LED. A 120 × 120 cm (4 × 4 ft) tent suits two to four plants and 400–650 W. Check your legal plant limit and ceiling first.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-basics-first-grow-guide", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/what-size-grow-tent.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/what-size-grow-tent.md", "qa": [ "Is a 2x4 or a 4x4 tent better?", "How tall should a grow tent be?", "What size tent for two plants?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-what-to-do-with-a-male-plant", "question": "What should I do with a male plant?", "phrasings": [ "Should I kill my male plants?", "Is it worth keeping a male plant?", "How do I use a male for pollen?", "I found a male: what now?" ], "topic": "breeding", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "A male cannabis plant must leave the flowering room before its pollen sacs open, usually within 1–2 weeks of showing, or it will seed every female. That doesn't mean binning it. Males carry half of every seed's genes, and GenetixBay encourages and rewards them. Either isolate a good male, collect and store its pollen and record it in the Stud Book, or remove it if you're not breeding.", "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "parent": "kb-breeding-breeders-vs-pollen-chuckers", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/what-to-do-with-a-male-plant.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/what-to-do-with-a-male-plant.md", "qa": [ "How do I know if a male is worth keeping?", "How long can I store cannabis pollen?", "Why does GenetixBay value males?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-what-to-look-for-in-a-grow-light", "question": "What should I look for when buying a grow light?", "phrasings": [ "What grow light specs matter?", "What does µmol/J mean on a grow light?", "How do I choose an LED grow light?", "Which grow light specs are marketing?" ], "topic": "environment", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "When buying a grow light, look first for efficacy above about 2.5 µmol/J, a measured PPFD map over your tent's footprint showing 600–900 µmol/m²/s average with edges at least 70–80 % of the centre, and a real wattage at the wall. Then a dimmer, a broad white spectrum, a driver you can mount outside the tent and an electrical safety certification. Ignore lumens and 'equivalent watts'.", "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "parent": "kb-environment-ppfd-dli-by-stage", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/what-to-look-for-in-a-grow-light.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/what-to-look-for-in-a-grow-light.md", "qa": [ "What is a good µmol/J for a grow light?", "What is a PPFD map and how do I read it?", "Do I need UV or far-red in a grow light?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-what-wattage-light-for-my-tent", "question": "What wattage LED do I need for my tent?", "phrasings": [ "How many watts for a 4x4 tent?", "What LED for a 2x4 tent?", "How many watts per square foot for cannabis?", "What light size for a 3x3 tent?" ], "topic": "environment", "intent": "numbers", "answer": "For flower, plan on roughly 25–40 W of efficient LED (2.5–3.0 µmol/J) per square foot, about 270–430 W/m², which gives an average of about 600–900 µmol/m²/s. That's 100–150 W for a 2 × 2 ft tent, 225–320 W for 3 × 3, 200–300 W for 2 × 4 and 400–650 W for 4 × 4. Experienced growers pushing 1,000–1,200 µmol/m²/s need about 35–50 W/ft².", "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "parent": "kb-environment-ppfd-dli-by-stage", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/what-wattage-light-for-my-tent.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/what-wattage-light-for-my-tent.md", "qa": [ "How many watts do I need for a 4x4 tent?", "Can I use a bigger light dimmed down?", "Do watts matter or only µmol/J?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-when-do-autoflowers-start-flowering", "question": "When do autoflowers start flowering?", "phrasings": [ "When do autos show pistils?", "Autoflower preflower week", "How many weeks until autos flower?", "When does cannabis start flowering?" ], "topic": "basics", "intent": "numbers", "answer": "Autoflowers usually start flowering about 3–5 weeks after sprouting, with white pistils at the main tip around day 21–35, whatever the light schedule. Preflowers at the nodes often appear a few days earlier, in week 4. Photoperiod plants are different: they flower only after long nights begin, with pistil clusters about 10–14 days after the switch to 12/12.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-basics-photoperiod-vs-autoflower", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/when-do-autoflowers-start-flowering.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/when-do-autoflowers-start-flowering.md", "qa": [ "Why hasn't my autoflower started flowering?", "When does a photoperiod plant start flowering?", "Are preflowers the start of flowering on an auto?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-when-do-buds-grow-the-most", "question": "In which weeks of flower do buds grow the most?", "phrasings": [ "When is the bulking phase in flower?", "When do buds fatten up?", "Which week do buds grow the most?", "Do buds keep growing in the last weeks?" ], "topic": "environment", "intent": "numbers", "answer": "Cannabis buds put on most of their mass from roughly week 3 to week 7 of flower, counted from the first pistil clusters, and keep gaining weight and resin right through the final weeks. In one controlled trial, inflorescence dry weight kept increasing at every harvest from week 5 to week 11. That is why the last weeks need full light and feed: taper nitrogen, don't flush.", "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "parent": "kb-environment-flip-to-flower-transition", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/when-do-buds-grow-the-most.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/when-do-buds-grow-the-most.md", "qa": [ "Do buds still grow in the last two weeks?", "When does the stretch stop and bulking start?", "How do I get buds to bulk up more?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-when-do-outdoor-plants-flower", "question": "When do outdoor plants start flowering?", "phrasings": [ "Outdoor flowering time", "When do outdoor plants start to bud?", "Do outdoor plants flower in August?", "When does outdoor cannabis flower in the southern hemisphere?", "Why is my outdoor plant flowering in June?" ], "topic": "outdoor", "intent": "numbers", "answer": "Outdoor photoperiod cannabis starts flowering when days shorten past its cultivar's threshold, often around 14–14.5 hours of daylight. At 35–50° latitude that is usually late July to mid-August in the Northern Hemisphere and late January to mid-February in the Southern. Plants show pistils over the next 10–14 days. Higher latitudes cross the threshold later; near the tropics plants can flower almost any time.", "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "parent": "kb-environment-photoperiod-light-leaks", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/when-do-outdoor-plants-flower.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/when-do-outdoor-plants-flower.md", "qa": [ "Why is my outdoor plant flowering in June?", "Do streetlights stop outdoor plants flowering?", "Can I make outdoor plants flower earlier?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-when-do-plants-show-sex", "question": "When do cannabis plants show their sex?", "phrasings": [ "When can you tell if a plant is male?", "How long until preflowers show?", "When do preflowers appear?", "How to sex cannabis plants early" ], "topic": "basics", "intent": "numbers", "answer": "Cannabis plants usually show their sex about 4–6 weeks from seed under long days, when single preflowers form at the nodes; research found the first pair around the 7th node. You need a 30–60x loupe. Males often show first. For an earlier answer, flower a cutting on 12/12 (about 1–2 weeks) or use a DNA sex test from the first true leaves.", "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "parent": "kb-basics-sex-male-female-hermaphrodite", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/when-do-plants-show-sex.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/when-do-plants-show-sex.md", "qa": [ "What does a female preflower look like?", "Do I need to flip to 12/12 to see sex?", "Can a DNA test tell sex from a seedling?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-when-does-soil-run-out-of-nutrients", "question": "When does pre-fertilised soil run out of nutrients?", "phrasings": [ "When should I start feeding in soil?", "How long does potting soil feed a plant?", "How long do soil nutrients last?", "My lower leaves are yellowing in new soil", "Do I need nutrients with pre-fertilised soil?" ], "topic": "nutrients", "intent": "troubleshooting", "answer": "A typical pre-fertilised bagged potting mix feeds cannabis for about 2-4 weeks, then runs short, usually in mid-veg. Heavily amended or super-soil-style mixes and big pots last longer. The sign is the oldest, lowest leaves turning pale yellow from the tip inward and climbing, which is nitrogen running out. Then start feeding at half the label rate, around EC 0.8-1.6 mS/cm, every second or third watering.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-systems-soil", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/when-does-soil-run-out-of-nutrients.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/when-does-soil-run-out-of-nutrients.md", "qa": [ "How do I know when my soil is running out of nutrients?", "Should I feed seedlings in fertilised soil?", "Do bigger pots hold nutrients longer?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-when-to-flip-to-flower", "question": "When should I flip my plants to flower?", "phrasings": [ "When should I switch to 12/12?", "When should I flip?", "How big should my plant be before flowering?", "When to flip photoperiod plants", "How tall should plants be at the flip?" ], "topic": "basics", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "Flip a photoperiod plant to 12/12 (or 13/11) when it is about half the final height your space allows, because most plants grow 50–100% taller, sometimes up to 3×, in the first two to three weeks after the flip. The plant must also be mature, showing preflowers at the nodes. The flip is not day 1 of flower: real flowering starts about 10–14 days later.", "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "parent": "kb-environment-flip-to-flower-transition", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/when-to-flip-to-flower.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/when-to-flip-to-flower.md", "qa": [ "Is the flip day 1 of flower?", "Should I wait for preflowers before flipping?", "Can I flip on 13/11 instead of 12/12?" ], "sources_count": 5, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-when-to-harvest-outdoors", "question": "When is outdoor cannabis ready to harvest?", "phrasings": [ "Outdoor harvest time", "Is October harvest normal for outdoor cannabis?", "Outdoor finish date", "When to harvest outdoor plants in the southern hemisphere", "Should I harvest early because of rain or frost?" ], "topic": "outdoor", "intent": "numbers", "answer": "Outdoor cannabis is ready when its trichomes are mostly cloudy with some amber (roughly 5–20%), which at 35–50° latitude usually falls between mid-September and late October in the Northern Hemisphere and between March and April in the Southern. Early cultivars finish first; late tropical lines run into November or May. Weather can overrule the trichomes: harvest ahead of long rain spells or a hard freeze.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-harvest-cure-trichome-ripeness", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/when-to-harvest-outdoors.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/when-to-harvest-outdoors.md", "qa": [ "Should I harvest early because of rain?", "Will frost kill my outdoor plants before harvest?", "Should I flush or put outdoor plants in darkness before harvest?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-when-to-plant-outdoors", "question": "When should I plant cannabis outdoors?", "phrasings": [ "Outdoor planting date for cannabis", "When can I put my plants outside?", "Should I plant after the last frost?", "When to plant cannabis outdoors in the southern hemisphere", "Is April too early to plant outside?" ], "topic": "outdoor", "intent": "numbers", "answer": "Plant cannabis outdoors after your last frost, once nights stay above about 10 °C (50 °F). At mid-latitudes (35–50°) that is usually mid-May to mid-June in the Northern Hemisphere and mid-November to mid-December in the Southern. Planting photoperiods much earlier, while days are under about 14 hours, risks early flowering and re-veg. Autoflowers can go out any time with 9–14 warm weeks left.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-basics-life-cycle", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/when-to-plant-outdoors.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/when-to-plant-outdoors.md", "qa": [ "Why do plants flower if I put them out too early?", "When should I plant outdoors in the southern hemisphere?", "When should I plant outdoors near the tropics?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-when-to-stop-feeding-before-harvest", "question": "When should I stop feeding before harvest?", "phrasings": [ "When do I stop nutrients before harvest?", "When is the last feed before the chop?", "Should I feed right up until harvest?", "How many weeks should I flush before harvest?", "Do I need to stop nutrients to get white ash?" ], "topic": "nutrients", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "Don't stop feeding before harvest. Stopping nutrients or flushing with plain water in the last 1-3 weeks is a harmful Myth: the plant is still packing on weight and resin. Feed through to the chop at stage strength. The GenetixBay approach is to taper only nitrogen over the last 3-4 weeks, down to 0-20 mg/L in the final days, while keeping P, K, Ca, Mg, S and micros fed.", "evidence": "myth", "evidence_name": "Myth", "parent": "kb-nutrients-per-element-tricks", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/when-to-stop-feeding-before-harvest.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/when-to-stop-feeding-before-harvest.md", "qa": [ "Does flushing before harvest improve taste?", "How do I taper nitrogen before harvest?", "Is there ever a good reason to flush?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-when-to-stop-training", "question": "When should I stop training my plants?", "phrasings": [ "When should I stop LST in flower?", "Can I train during the stretch?", "What is the last day to top before flowering?", "Can I LST in flower?", "When to stop supercropping" ], "topic": "training", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "Stop training cannabis by technique. Do the last topping at least 7–10 days before the flip to 12/12. Finish hard LST bending and supercropping by flower week 2–3, when stems lignify at the end of the stretch. Keep tucking under a net for about the first 2 weeks of stretch. After that, only gentle guiding and support.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-training-lst", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/when-to-stop-training.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/when-to-stop-training.md", "qa": [ "Can I LST in flower?", "Can I top in flower?", "Can I supercrop during the stretch?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-when-to-transplant-clones", "question": "When are rooted clones ready to transplant?", "phrasings": [ "When do I transplant clones?", "How long should clone roots be before transplanting?", "When can I up-pot clones?", "How can I back up a clone?" ], "topic": "cloning", "intent": "numbers", "answer": "Rooted cannabis clones are ready to transplant when several white roots, about 2–5 cm (1–2 in) long, are poking out of the sides or base of the plug, usually 10–14 days after cutting. Harden them off from the dome over 3–5 days first. Move them into a 0.5–3 L pot of pre-moistened medium at the same pH and keep light gentle for a few days.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-breeding-clone-only-preservation", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/when-to-transplant-clones.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/when-to-transplant-clones.md", "qa": [ "How can I back up a clone?", "Can I transplant a clone with only one root?", "What size pot should rooted clones go into?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-which-nutrients-to-buy", "question": "Which nutrients do I actually need for a first grow?", "phrasings": [ "What is a basic nutrient line for beginners?", "What nutrients should I buy?", "Do I need all the additives?", "Do I need bloom boosters?", "Minimum nutrients for growing cannabis" ], "topic": "nutrients", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "For a first grow you need one complete base nutrient made for your medium (soil, or a two-part A and B for coco and hydro), Cal-Mag only if you use RO or soft water or coco, a pH down, and a pH and EC meter. Boosters, sugars and most additives are optional: cannabis trials found no yield gain above about 30-60 mg/L phosphorus or from doubling feed strength.", "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "parent": "kb-nutrients-feed-by-stage", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/which-nutrients-to-buy.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/which-nutrients-to-buy.md", "qa": [ "Do I need bloom boosters?", "Do I need Cal-Mag?", "Do I need molasses or sugar additives?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-which-way-up-to-plant-a-seed", "question": "Which way up do I plant a germinated seed?", "phrasings": [ "Taproot down or up?", "I planted my seed upside down, is it ruined?", "How do I plant a sprouted seed?", "How deep do I plant a germinated seed?" ], "topic": "germination", "intent": "how-to", "answer": "Plant a germinated cannabis seed taproot (radicle) pointing down, 0.5–1.5 cm (¼–½ in) deep, in moist, light mix. Move it once the taproot is about 0.5–2 cm long, before it gets long and brittle. If you get it wrong, don't dig it up: the root turns down by itself. Handling and breaking the taproot does more harm than planting it sideways.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-germination-germination-methods", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/which-way-up-to-plant-a-seed.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/which-way-up-to-plant-a-seed.md", "qa": [ "What if I planted my seed upside down?", "How long should the taproot be before planting?", "Should the seed be covered completely?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-white-fuzz-on-soil", "question": "What is the white fuzz on top of my soil?", "phrasings": [ "White mould on top of my soil", "Fungus growing on the soil surface", "Is mycelium in my pot bad?", "White crust on top of the pot" ], "topic": "diseases", "intent": "troubleshooting", "answer": "White fuzz on top of cannabis soil is usually harmless fungal growth (mycelium) feeding on organic matter in a surface that stays wet. It rarely harms the plant, but it means you water too often or the air is too still, and wet surfaces breed fungus gnats. Let the top 3–5 cm dry between waterings and move air over the pots. A hard, crunchy white crust is salt, not fungus.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-diseases-sanitation-and-prevention", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/white-fuzz-on-soil.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/white-fuzz-on-soil.md", "qa": [ "Is white mould on soil harmful to cannabis?", "How do I tell fungus from salt crust on my pot?", "Is white fuzz in living soil a good sign?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-whole-plant-pale-green", "question": "Why is my whole plant pale or light green?", "phrasings": [ "Why is my cannabis plant pale?", "Light green leaves all over the plant", "Plant losing its colour", "Whole plant lime green, not yellow" ], "topic": "diagnosis", "intent": "troubleshooting", "answer": "A cannabis plant that is pale all over is usually short of nitrogen, or has roots that can't take nitrogen up because they are overwatered, cold or at the wrong pH. Check the root zone first: pH 6.0–7.0 in soil, 5.5–6.5 in coco and hydro, and roots at about 20 °C (68 °F). Then raise nitrogen modestly, by 10–20%. Some cultivars are naturally lime green.", "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "parent": "kb-diagnosis-yellowing-lower-leaves", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/whole-plant-pale-green.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/whole-plant-pale-green.md", "qa": [ "Is a pale cannabis plant a nitrogen deficiency?", "Why is my plant pale after transplanting?", "Can too much light make a plant pale?" ], "sources_count": 5, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-why-are-my-buds-airy", "question": "Why are my buds airy or larfy?", "phrasings": [ "Why are my buds airy?", "Why are my buds fluffy and not dense?", "How do I stop larf?", "Why do I get popcorn buds at the bottom?" ], "topic": "training", "intent": "troubleshooting", "answer": "Airy, larfy buds are usually buds that got too little light: lower and inner sites often receive a fraction of the canopy-top PPFD, well below the 800–1,200 µmol/m²/s flower target. Other causes are heat above about 30 °C (86 °F), harvesting too early, root-zone or feeding problems, and cultivars that naturally make loose flowers. Check light at the bud, not the top.", "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "parent": "kb-environment-ppfd-dli-by-stage", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/why-are-my-buds-airy.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/why-are-my-buds-airy.md", "qa": [ "Why are only my lower buds airy?", "Why are my top buds airy and spiky?", "Do indica strains make denser buds than sativas?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-why-are-my-clones-wilting", "question": "Why are my clones wilting?", "phrasings": [ "Clones drooping", "My cuttings are dying", "Clones turning yellow", "Clones wilted after I removed the dome" ], "topic": "cloning", "intent": "troubleshooting", "answer": "Cannabis clones wilt because they have no roots to replace the water their leaves lose. Some droop on day 1–2 is normal; lasting wilt means humidity is too low (aim 75–90% RH), light or heat too strong (keep 50–150 µmol/m²/s), or the stem rotting in a soggy plug. Yellowing after a week is usually the cutting using its stored reserves, not a disaster.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-breeding-clone-only-preservation", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/why-are-my-clones-wilting.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/why-are-my-clones-wilting.md", "qa": [ "Is it normal for clones to droop the first day?", "Why are my clones turning yellow?", "Why did my clones wilt when I took the dome off?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-why-are-there-seeds-in-my-buds", "question": "Why are there seeds in my buds?", "phrasings": [ "Why did I find seeds in my bud?", "Seeds in buds but I had no male", "Why are my buds seeded?", "Can a female make seeds on her own?" ], "topic": "diagnosis", "intent": "troubleshooting", "answer": "Seeds in cannabis buds mean the flowers were pollinated, usually weeks before harvest. With no male in the room, the usual source is a hermaphrodite: a female growing anthers, often hidden inside the buds. Herm-prone plants are mainly the result of poor breeding, and stress reveals them. Find the source, cull the herm, and don't grow the seeds: they carry the same tendency.", "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "parent": "kb-diagnosis-hermaphrodites", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/why-are-there-seeds-in-my-buds.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/why-are-there-seeds-in-my-buds.md", "qa": [ "Can a female plant make seeds without a male?", "Should I plant seeds I found in my buds?", "How many seeds does a pollinated bud make?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-why-flowering-needs-darkness", "question": "Why do photoperiod plants need long nights to flower?", "phrasings": [ "Why 12/12?", "Phytochrome and flowering", "Night length and flowering", "Does cannabis measure day or night?" ], "topic": "basics", "intent": "definition", "answer": "Photoperiod cannabis is a short-day plant: it measures the uninterrupted night with phytochrome, a light-sensing pigment, and flowers once the night passes a cultivar-specific critical length, around 10–11 hours of darkness in drug-type cultivars tested. 12/12 works for essentially all cultivars; 13/11 also works for many. Light during the night, even very dim, resets the count and can delay flowering in sensitive cultivars.", "evidence": "established", "evidence_name": "Established", "parent": "kb-environment-photoperiod-light-leaks", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/why-flowering-needs-darkness.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/why-flowering-needs-darkness.md", "qa": [ "How does phytochrome control flowering?", "Does cannabis need a dark period in veg?", "Why do outdoor plants flower in late summer?" ], "sources_count": 5, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-why-is-my-autoflower-small", "question": "Why is my autoflower so small?", "phrasings": [ "Stunted autoflower", "My auto finished tiny", "Autoflower not growing big", "Why did my auto stop growing?" ], "topic": "basics", "intent": "troubleshooting", "answer": "An autoflower ends up small when something slows it in the first 3–5 weeks, before it starts flowering by age. The usual causes are overwatering a seedling in a big wet pot, transplant shock, a small pot, topping, weak light under about 300–600 µmol/m²/s, or hunger and pH problems. The auto keeps its countdown regardless, so the lost growth never comes back.", "evidence": "grower_practice", "evidence_name": "Grower practice", "parent": "kb-basics-photoperiod-vs-autoflower", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/why-is-my-autoflower-small.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/why-is-my-autoflower-small.md", "qa": [ "Can a stunted autoflower recover?", "Does topping make autoflowers smaller?", "How big should an autoflower get?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-why-is-my-seedling-drooping", "question": "Why is my seedling drooping?", "phrasings": [ "Droopy seedling", "Seedling leaves drooping down", "Why is my seedling wilting?", "Seedling fell over at the base" ], "topic": "germination", "intent": "troubleshooting", "answer": "A drooping cannabis seedling is most often overwatered: a big pot or soggy plug leaves its tiny roots short of oxygen. Less often it is dry, hot or under a light that is too strong. If the stem is pinched and brown at the soil line, it is damping-off and can't be saved. Water small amounts around the stem only when the pot lightens, at 23–27 °C (73–81 °F).", "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "parent": "kb-germination-seedling-care", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/why-is-my-seedling-drooping.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/why-is-my-seedling-drooping.md", "qa": [ "How do I tell overwatering from underwatering in seedlings?", "Why did my seedling fall over at the base?", "Can too much light make a seedling droop?" ], "sources_count": 3, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-why-is-my-weed-harsh", "question": "Why is my homegrown weed harsh?", "phrasings": [ "Why is my homegrown smoke so harsh?", "Homegrown makes me cough", "Harsh buds: did I not flush?", "How do I make my bud smoother?" ], "topic": "harvest-cure", "intent": "troubleshooting", "answer": "Homegrown cannabis is usually harsh because it was dried too fast, over-dried, or smoked before a proper cure, not because it wasn't flushed. Flushing is a Myth that costs yield and resin. Dry slowly for 7–14 days at 15–21 °C (60–70 °F) and 55–62% RH, then cure for at least 2 weeks, with water activity falling slowly from about 0.62–0.65 towards 0.55–0.58.", "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "parent": "kb-harvest-cure-curing-burping", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/why-is-my-weed-harsh.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/why-is-my-weed-harsh.md", "qa": [ "Will flushing make my weed smoother?", "Does a longer cure make smoke smoother?", "Can wet buds be harsh?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" }, { "id": "kb-answers-why-wont-my-seeds-germinate", "question": "Why won't my seeds germinate?", "phrasings": [ "Why are my seeds not germinating?", "Seeds not sprouting after a week", "No taproot after 5 days", "My seed didn't pop, what went wrong?", "Why won't my cannabis seeds crack?" ], "topic": "germination", "intent": "troubleshooting", "answer": "Cannabis seeds usually fail to germinate because they are too cold, too wet, too dry or old. Fresh seed shows a taproot in 1–5 days at 22–27 °C (72–81 °F); old seed can take up to 10 days. Below about 18 °C (64 °F) germination slows sharply, and soaking longer than 24 hours or a sopping towel can drown the seed. Old seed may still sprout in 1% hydrogen peroxide.", "evidence": "supported", "evidence_name": "Supported", "parent": "kb-germination-germination-methods", "url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/why-wont-my-seeds-germinate.html", "markdown_url": "https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/answers/why-wont-my-seeds-germinate.md", "qa": [ "How long should I wait before giving up on a seed?", "Can a seed rot from too much water?", "Can I rescue old seeds that won't sprout?" ], "sources_count": 4, "reviewed": "draft", "updated": "2026-10-31" } ] }