How to Grow Autoflowers Outdoors

Growing cannabis outdoors can be an extremely rewarding experience for any gardener. And autoflowering strains have made it easier than ever to cultivate cannabis in an outdoor environment. Autoflowers automatically start flowering after a certain period of time, without the need to change light cycles. This allows them to finish flowering and be ready for harvest before the cold weather hits in fall.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about how to grow autoflowers outdoors. From choosing the right strains, ideal climates, and proper planting techniques to maximizing your yields and avoiding pests. Whether you’re new to cannabis cultivation or an experienced outdoor grower, read on for pro tips and tricks for getting the most out of growing autoflowers outside.

Pros and Cons of Growing Autoflowers Outdoors

Deciding whether to grow autoflowers outdoors comes down to weighing the unique advantages against the potential challenges. There are compelling benefits to cultivating autoflowers outside, but also some drawbacks to consider. Looking at the key pros and cons can help you determine if growing autoflowers outdoors is the right choice for your situation.

pros:

• Not reliant on light cycles to flower – can be planted later and still finish on time.
• Naturally hardy, resilient plants that withstand temperature fluctuations.
• Finish flowering quickly with multiple harvests possible each year.
• Require less maintenance than regular cannabis.
• Compact Size: Autoflowers stay relatively short and bushy.

cons:

• Generally smaller yields compared to regular cannabis varieties.
• Short life cycle provides smaller window for error.
• Less Control over Flowering: Flowering automatically starts on a schedule.
• Potency: Some autoflower strains have lower THC levels than photoperiod strains.
• Limited Training: Autoflowers to not respond well to high-stress training techniques, like topping.

What is The Ideal Climate to Grow Autoflowering Plants Outdoors?

Autoflowers grow best in warm, sunny locations with daytime temperatures between 20°C -30°C (70-85°F) and nights that stay above 10°C (50°F). Before planting, research the climate conditions and growing season in your specific area. Most autoflowers will thrive in Mediterranean zones and other temperate regions with long summers. Cooler areas can still support autoflower grows by strategically planting them in sunny spots sheltered from the wind.

Tips For Growing Autoflowers Outdoors

While autoflowers are relatively easy-going plants, following some key tips will help ensure your outdoor crop thrives from seed to harvest. Proper techniques regarding containers, location, soil, and early care can give autoflowers the ideal start they need to produce fat, dense buds outside. Consider the following tips when cultivating autoflowers outdoors:

Pot Size and Type

• Use at least 5 gallon pots or planters, as autoflowers have rapid root growth requiring ample space.
• Make sure containers have drainage holes at the bottom to prevent overwatering.
• Fabric pots allow for increased airflow to the roots.

Choose the Right Location

• Find a spot getting 8-10 hours of direct sunlight daily – lack of light will stunt growth.
• Shelter plants from strong winds, which can restrict growth.
• Ensure the area has loose, fertile soil for strong root development.

Use Good Soil

• Test soil pH and amend to keep it between 6-6.8 which is optimal.
• Pick soil that drains well but also retains some moisture.
• Mix in compost or organic dry amendments before planting to enrich soil.

Do Some Autoflowers Perform Better Outdoors Than Others?

Certain autoflower strains have been bred specifically for outdoor performance. When selecting seeds, look for breeds known for their mold resistance, high yields, and quick flowering times. Some top performers for outdoor growing include:

• THC Bomb Auto: Potent and resilient with yields up to 550g/plant outdoors.
• Gorilla Glue Auto: Vigorous with high resistance to mold, mildew, pests, and drought.
• Berry Bomb Auto: A hardy, high-yielding strain great for beginners.
• Girl Scout Cookies Auto: Can produce up to 500g/plant outdoors and handles humidity well.

How to Maximize Autoflower Yield Outdoors

While autoflowers produce lower yields than traditional cannabis varieties, there are steps you can take to optimize and maximize the quantity of your outdoor autoflower harvest. By selecting the right strains, providing ideal growing conditions, and properly caring for plants from seed to harvest, you can help your autoflowers reach their full yield potential outside. Follow these tips to increase autoflower yields in your outdoor garden:

• Choose High-Yielding Strains: Select autoflower strains bred for outdoor performance and high yields.
• Optimal Pot Size: Use large, 10+ gallon pots to allow more root space for plants to grow.
• Provide Adequate Light: Ensure plants get at least 8-10 hours of direct sunlight outdoors daily.
• Pruning and Training: While autoflowers don’t respond well to extensive training, light pruning and LST can enhance airflow and light penetration, leading to improved bud development. 
• Proper Watering: Consistent moisture is key, but avoid overwatering which leads to mold.
• Harvest at the Right Time: Harvest buds at peak maturity, when pistol hairs recede into flowers.

The Best Ways of Preventing Pests Outdoors

Pests are one of the top threats facing any outdoor cannabis grow. Bugs, mold, mildew, and other infestations can quickly wreak havoc on your autoflower crop if left unchecked. While completely preventing pests outdoors is difficult, there are multiple techniques growers can employ to fend off infestations and protect plants. Being proactive about pest prevention will allow your autoflowers to reach their full potential. Consider these best practices for keeping pests at bay:

• Choose pest-resistant autoflower strains when possible.
• Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs or lacewings for natural pest control.
• Spray plants with neem oil or insecticidal soap concentrated on the undersides of leaves.
• Gently wash leaves with water to dislodge pests.
• Set up sticky traps around the grow area to capture problematic insects.
• Cover plants with garden fleece or mesh to create a physical barrier.

Tips on Watering Autoflowers Outdoors

Consistent moisture is vital for healthy autoflowers, but be cautious not to overwater as excessive moisture causes mold. Water plants early in the day so they have time to dry out by nighttime. Check soil moisture 2-3 inches below the surface before watering to avoid oversaturation. As plants begin flowering, increase watering frequency to meet their needs. If heavy rains come, shelter plants and hold off further watering for a few days until the soil dries out. Investing in self-watering systems can be useful when going on vacation during a grow.

How to Grow Autoflowers Outdoors FAQS

CAN YOU GROW AUTOFLOWER PLANTS OUTSIDE?

Yes, autoflowers are well-suited for outdoor growing given their natural hardiness and resilience. They automatically transition from vegetative growth to flowering, allowing them to finish before cold weather arrives in fall.

HOW MUCH YIELD DOES AN OUTDOOR AUTOFLOWER PRODUCE?

On average, autoflowers produce between 50-350 grams per plant when grown outdoors. Under optimal conditions, some strains can yield up to 500g per plant outside.

DO OUTDOOR AUTOFLOWERS NEED NUTRIENTS?

While autoflowers are lower maintenance than regular cannabis, providing organic nutrients during flowering can help maximize your yields outdoors.

WHAT IS THE HIGHEST YIELDING OUTDOOR AUTOFLOWER?

Some of the top high-yielding autoflower strains for outdoor cultivation include Girl Scout Cookies Auto, Gorilla Glue Auto, and THC Bomb Auto, which can produce up to 500 grams per plant outside.

WHERE IS THE BEST AUTOFLOWER SEED BANK?

Crop House Seed Bank of course! Although we are biased we are an established seed bank based in Thailand that offers a wide selection of high-quality autoflower seeds at affordable prices.

ARE ALL AUTOFLOWER SEEDS FEMINIZED?

The majority of autoflower seeds from reputable breeders are feminized, meaning there is no risk of male plants forming. Always check before purchasing.

ARE AUTOFLOWERS LESS POTENT?

While some early autoflower strains had lower THC content, today’s breeds can reach 30% THC or more. When grown properly, they produce cannabis just as potent as photoperiod varieties.

ARE AUTOFLOWERS GOOD FOR BEGINNERS?

Yes, autoflowers are one of the easiest cannabis strains to grow, great for both indoor and outdoor beginner cultivators. Their resilience makes them more forgiving to novice mistakes.

Conclusion

From selecting the right strains to maximizing yields, this guide covers the key things every grower needs to know about how to grow autoflowers outdoors. Follow the tips above, and you’ll be rewarded with healthy, high-quality buds by the time autumn rolls around. Don’t forget to browse Crop House Seed Banks’ selection of robust, outdoor-ready autoflower seeds today.