Should I Grow My Marijuana Plant Outside?
If growing a personal marijuana plant is something you’re thinking about, there may be a few things you want to consider. You might be trying to decide whether to get indica, sativa, or autoflower seeds, or whether or not you want to use a UV lamp. But the first decision you need to make is if you’re going to grow your plant indoors or outdoors. Factors that influence your decision will vary from person to person, but this article will cover everything you need to consider for growing your plant in your patio, terrace, or backyard.
Light
When growing your marijuana plant, the most important challenge to be aware of is lighting. Since you are harnessing the energy of the sun, you have almost no control over how much light your plant is going to get. Marijuana plants love the sun; the region, time of year, and weather conditions will absolutely affect the growth and success of your plant.
Animals and Pests
If you are deciding to plant outside, you will have to plan for any pets and pests that could get to your small, one-plant garden with pet repellent and/or pesticides. Your plant is exposed to the elements, so you’ll want to invest in some additional methods of protection for your future harvest. Some of this may include pesticides, wire cages, and finding the plant secluded area.
Smell
Marijuana is known for its strong, distinct odor. You’ll have to worry about scent much less choosing to grow outside, rather than inside. The open space prevents the smell from collecting and growing too strong. Keep in mind, the scent will not be gone completely; so if you live in close quarters such as an apartment or townhome, your neighbors may still catch a lingering whiff. Also, know that growing more plants will also increase the strength of the odor.
Theft
Theft is going to be one of the most important risks you’ll have to think about when deciding on a location to start your plant. Depending on your living situation, planting outside can be a high-risk or low-risk situation. If you live in a home in a secluded area and privacy fence, you will face less chance of someone taking your plant than a person choosing to grow from their ground-level patio. Outside, theft can be an issue if you live in a high traffic area like an apartment, where anyone could grab it while passing by.
Be aware that you will face risks and challenges regardless of where you choose to grow. Growing outdoors has many more factors to consider, as your plant has daily exposure to many more elements than if planting indoors. Although, the outside can provide a much more natural experience, allowing the Earth to take care of much of the groundwork in nurturing your plant. If you live in a sunny and spacious region, it may be a worthwhile option.
Check out our tips for growing indoors here.