Cannabis is known for being tough, but even resilient plants can run into trouble. Here’s how to spot and fix the most common growing issues.
Understanding What Can Go Wrong
Cannabis grows naturally in many environments, but when cultivated indoors or in home gardens, a range of problems can still show up. Issues like leaf discoloration, pests, root problems, or slowed growth are all signs something’s off. Catching these early is key to saving your crop.
Whether you’re dealing with bugs, mold, or a nutrient imbalance, identifying the cause quickly makes a big difference. Below are the most frequent problems cannabis growers face—and what to do about them.
Overwatering: A Common Beginner Mistake
Many new growers overdo it on watering, assuming more is better. But cannabis roots need to dry out between waterings to absorb oxygen properly. Constantly wet soil can lead to root rot, a condition that damages roots and stunts growth.
How to avoid it:
- Only water when the top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry.
- Use pots with drainage holes to prevent water from sitting at the bottom.
- Check out a watering guide to better understand your plant’s cycle.
Too Many Nutrients Can Backfire
It’s tempting to believe more nutrients will create bigger buds—but too much can cause nutrient lockout, a condition where the plant stops absorbing nutrients altogether.
Tips to prevent overfeeding:
- Stick to the recommended dosage on the nutrient label.
- Start low and increase gradually, especially with synthetic nutrients.
- Organic nutrients are more forgiving if you overdo it.
- Don’t forget to monitor the pH of your water, as incorrect pH levels can block nutrient uptake.
Spotting Signs of Plant Stress
Cannabis plants communicate stress through their appearance. Keep an eye out for the following:
- Yellowing or spotted leaves: Often a sign of nutrient deficiency.
- Stunted growth: Could indicate root issues or poor soil conditions.
- Mold or bud rot: Common during flowering if there’s too much humidity.
- Pest activity: Webbing or small holes might point to spider mites or aphids.
Inspect your plants regularly, especially during pruning. Be sure to check under leaves and around the base of the stem—some pests hide in these spots.
Pest and Mold Troubles
Bugs like spider mites, aphids, and thrips often hide underneath leaves or in the soil. If left unchecked, they can damage your plants beyond repair.
Prevention tips:
- Keep your grow area clean and well-ventilated.
- Use natural pest control methods like neem oil.
- Remove any infected leaves or branches immediately.
- Keep humidity levels in check to avoid bud rot or mold, especially during flowering.
Healthy Plant Checklist
To keep your cannabis plants on track, follow these best practices:
- Regularly inspect for bugs, mold, and nutrient problems.
- Don’t overwater or overfeed.
- Use pH-balanced water.
- Prune dead leaves and weak stems.
- Make sure your plants get enough airflow and light.
Healthy cannabis leaves should be a deep green. Any yellowing, spotting, or curling usually signals something is wrong.
Final Tip
Even though cannabis is hardy, it still needs care and attention. By monitoring your grow space closely and addressing issues early, you can give your plants the best chance to thrive.