Putting Autoflower On 12 12

Caroline Mae

2 min read

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01-01-2025

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The question of whether to put autoflowering cannabis plants on a 12/12 light schedule is a common one among growers, particularly those new to the world of autoflowers. The short answer is: generally, it's unnecessary and often counterproductive.

Understanding Autoflowering Cannabis

Unlike photoperiod cannabis strains, autoflowering plants don't rely on light cycles to initiate flowering. Their flowering is triggered by age, typically after a few weeks of vegetative growth, regardless of the light cycle they experience. This inherent characteristic is what makes them so popular among growers seeking a quicker harvest.

The Myth of 12/12 and Autoflowers

The misconception that autoflowers benefit from a 12/12 light schedule likely stems from the behavior of photoperiod strains. Photoperiod plants require a 12/12 light cycle (12 hours of light and 12 hours of darkness) to transition from vegetative growth to flowering. This is not the case with autoflowers.

Potential Negative Effects of a 12/12 Schedule on Autoflowers

While a 12/12 schedule won't kill your autoflowering plants, it can lead to several negative consequences:

• Reduced Yield: Forcing a plant into flowering prematurely can stunt its growth and result in a smaller final yield. Autoflowers need sufficient vegetative time to develop a robust root system and ample foliage before they begin to focus their energy on flower production.

• Smaller Buds: Plants deprived of adequate vegetative growth will produce smaller, less dense buds.

• Stressed Plants: An abrupt change to a 12/12 schedule can stress the plant, potentially leading to nutrient deficiencies or other issues.

The Optimal Light Schedule for Autoflowers

Most growers find that maintaining a consistent 18/6 or 20/4 light cycle (18 or 20 hours of light and 6 or 4 hours of darkness respectively) throughout the entire grow cycle yields the best results. This provides ample light for vegetative growth and allows the plant to naturally transition to flowering when it's physiologically ready.

Exceptions and Considerations

There are some exceptions. Some experienced growers might adjust the light schedule slightly during the later stages of flowering to fine-tune the plant's development, but this is an advanced technique that shouldn't be attempted by beginners. Always prioritize understanding your specific strain and its unique needs.

In conclusion: Unless you are an experienced grower with a specific reason, avoid switching your autoflowering plants to a 12/12 light schedule. Sticking to a consistent 18/6 or 20/4 cycle will generally result in healthier plants with larger yields.