Growing 101: Best Soil for Cannabis Growth

Learning how to grow cannabis, especially for the first time, can be an overwhelming journey. Among all of the main factors that you need to be on top of, cannabis soil selection is of utmost importance, for several reasons as discussed in this blog.

True North Cannabis Co. always has the novice cultivator in mind. With that being said, this helpful guide includes some key factors you’ll need to consider when choosing the best soil for cannabis farming. 

Before “digging deep” into the list of the best soil for cannabis growth, we recommend taking a refresher course by learning the easiest strains to grow so you’ll have a better idea of what’s most likely to thrive in your care. 

Why Does the Type of Soil Matter?  

Perhaps the main element that needs to be studied—quite literally and figuratively—is the type of earth that houses your seed. Know that not all types of soil can efficiently grow cannabis, and alternatively, not all cannabis strains require similar characteristics when it comes to soil. 

These factors can be quite tricky if discussed one by one, so let’s focus on the common traits among the best soil for cannabis cultivation. 

The Best Soil for Cannabis Growth is Nutrient-Packed 

Compared to hydroponics systems, growing cannabis in soil ensures not only healthy crops but a nutrient-packed environment that will help your plant thrive in the healthiest way possible. Just like all types of plants, cannabis requires a set of nutrients during all its growth stages. So what are said nutrients when choosing the best soil for cannabis cultivation?

Nitrogen 

Nitrogen is the most important nutrient in cannabis soil selection as it is the main composition of chlorophyll, and obviously—a key player in the photosynthesis process. Plant tissue is mainly made up of nitrogen, which is why there are instant signs of deficiency when there is a lack of it. 

Phosphorus 

Ensure that the cannabis soil you pick has lots of phosphorus, as it is vital to new growth, and your plant’s nutrient intake. Soil with fish bone meal, soft rock phosphate, crab meal, and seabird guano are organic alternatives to the limiting supply of this nutrient due to mining.  

Potassium 

Working hand-in-hand with phosphorus, potassium protects the root structure by making it resilient. It also increases the mass, volume, and density of buds, resulting in a thicker, more attractive yield. It replenishes crops during drought and works alongside nitrogen to build up the plant’s protein compound and amino acids. Compost, greensands, sulphate of potash, and wood ashes are widely used in cannabis soil mixes as these hold a lot of this nutrient.

Calcium and Magnesium 

When choosing the best soil for cannabis, calcium and magnesium must be present. Why? The answer is as simple: They are the two nutrients that serve as the building blocks of cannabis plants.

Calcium makes the cell walls strong and makes plants resist pests, diseases, and heat stress. Cannabis plants need magnesium in all stages of life and are present in the leaves–hence proving importance in light absorption and developing carbohydrates and sugars. 

To ensure that your mix is the best soil for cannabis, include calcium-rich elements such as lime, eggshells, and gypsum. On the other hand, Epsom salts and dolomite lime are major sources of magnesium. 

The Best Soil for Cannabis Growth Has the Right pH Value

If you haven’t read about it yet, the “pH scale” is a chemical scale that shows how acidic soil is. Knowing this for a fact is truly important when choosing the best soil for cannabis as the plant only thrives well within a shy pH range. 

Good cannabis soil has a pH level of 6.0, with 5.8 to 6.3 being the maximum boundaries. When the soil has too little or too much, the yield will grow deficiently, and if the soil is too far off, the plant will ultimately die. 

A soil test is always recommended, and here are some accredited soil testing facilities in Ontario if you wish to do one. 

The Best Soil for Cannabis Growth Retains and Drains Water at Optimal Levels

Too little or too much water is a no-no for all plants. The best soil for cannabis needs to be loose, hence have good drainage abilities. Having said that, soil that can hold water in just the right amount is ideal when growing cannabis.

Among all soils, the best cannabis soil type is loam, as it has both qualities and is rich in nutrients. If you choose to work with other types of cannabis soil, mixing in coco coir, perlite, vermiculite, clay pebbles, and worm castings can improve drainage and retention, as well as add certain nutrients that can be beneficial for your plant’s growth. 

Test Your Green Thumb by Growing Cannabis

Canadians can legally grow up to four cannabis plants per residence—so put your knowledge to the test this spring and summer and cultivate your own flower! Who knows, you may even uncover a skill you didn’t know you possessed.

Growing healthy, potent flowers takes time and dedication, but with high-quality seeds, soil, and the right propagation setup, you can reap the rewards in no time.

Contact True North Cannabis Co. today to learn about our wide array of affordable strains that can motivate and guide you into choosing the right ones to start with.