Have you ever wondered if it ’ s possible to grow cannabis on a balcony or terrace ?
There are many reasons to do it , but there are many issues you must first cover . I ’ ve been growing cannabis for more than 22 years , eight of which have been on balconies and terraces . In this article , I will share my experience and guide you through getting started on this rewarding hobby . Balcony growing gives you many of the advantages of growing outdoors . You have access to sunlight , ventilation , and water . Yet , a balcony isn ’ t stealth enough ; cultivar choice is limited , while pests , molds , and other environmental factors can ruin your crop . Alternatively , you can choose to veg indoors and flower outdoors . To grow on a balcony , you must consider :
• Area • Light • Cultivar • Stealth • Smell • Rain • Soil
Know Your Area
Before you begin to grow , you must check who and what is around you . I like to hang out on my balcony and look around at different times of the day . I observe how busy the area is ; are there neighbors ; how many people hang out on their balconies ; and if there are any businesses around me . If I can see people in the area , then they can potentially see my cannabis . Next , measure the space that you want to grow your cannabis .
Measure the floor space , rail heights , and any walls you may share with neighbors . If you are growing in an area with business buildings , it is best to measure their viewing angle . These measurements help determine the types of cultivars , number of plants , covering needs , pot sizes , and techniques you can use .
How Are My Lights ?
Deciding where to place your cannabis depends on how much direct sunlight your area receives . I aim for a location with four to six hours of direct sunlight , and I use supplemental lighting . Having more daytime light will give you bigger plants and bigger buds . However , many different lighting schedules grow cannabis just as well . I like to provide my plants with at least 16 hours of optimal lighting . I have used other lighting schedules with good results , but they are not the best choice for beginners . I ’ ve found alternative lighting schedules work on most strains but not all . Covering up supplemental lighting is tough and can bring unwanted attention . It ’ s best to check when sunrise and sunset occur , then time your lighting schedule when you need extra light . Blackout materials can cover up the lighting , but they require removal to allow sunlight to get to your plants . Another option to consider is vegging indoors and using the balcony for flowering .
“ Sativa-dominant hybrids usually grow fast , big , require training , and demand attention .”
What Cultivars Should You Grow ?
You can grow any cultivar you wish , but there are some things to consider when choosing one . Cultivar choice depends on your area , airflow , lighting , care , height , and many other factors . I prefer to use indica-dominant hybrids as they tend to stay short . Sativa-dominant hybrids usually grow fast , big , require training , and demand attention .
Maximum Yield 19