Maximize Cannabis Growth with Controlled CO2 Levels
CO2, or carbon dioxide, plays an essential role in cannabis cultivation. As a key ingredient in photosynthesis, it helps plants create their own food, with an increased CO2 level often leading to enhanced growth and yield.
Please note safety precautions before increasing CO2 levels in your grow room.
During photosynthesis, CO2 is utilized during light-independent reactions, known as the Calvin cycle. It reacts with ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate (RuBP) to produce a six-carbon molecule, which then converts into two molecules of 3-phosphoglycerate (3-PGA).
Availability of CO2 in the environment directly influences the rate of photosynthesis. An optimal concentration of CO2 quickens photosynthesis, enhancing overall growth and yield. However, exceeding this optimal limit can lead to issues such as reduced stomatal conductance and water loss, negatively impacting plant growth and yield.
To ensure effective cannabis cultivation with CO2, follow these guidelines:
- Monitor CO2 levels: Ideal CO2 levels for cannabis are between 800 and 1200 ppm during the vegetative stage, and 1200 to 1500 ppm during the flowering stage. Use a CO2 monitor and controller to maintain these levels.
- Sources of CO2: Use CO2 tanks, generators, bags, or pads as per your cultivation scale and requirement. Tanks are most reliable for commercial cultivators, while bags and pads suit home growers or small rooms.
- Distribute CO2 evenly: Use fans or ventilation systems to ensure even CO2 distribution across all plants.
- Timing and duration: Supply CO2 during daylight periods when plants actively photosynthesize. Start an hour after lights come on and stop an hour before lights go off. The duration of supplementation depends on the system type, grow room size, and plant growth stage.
During cannabis cultivation, the CO2 level differs for each stage:
- Vegetative stage: The recommended CO2 level is between 800 and 1200 ppm.
- Flowering stage: The recommended CO2 level is between 1200 and 1500 ppm.
- Late flowering stage: The recommended CO2 level is between 1000 and 1200 ppm.
Remember, these levels may vary depending on temperature, humidity, and lighting conditions.
Ensuring safety in your facility is paramount. CO2 levels exceeding 5000 ppm can be hazardous, necessitating appropriate ventilation and safety measures. Install a high-grade CO2 monitor and alarm system, and maintain proper ventilation in the grow room.
CO2 is usually safe at normal levels but can pose health risks at high concentrations. CO2 symptoms can range from headaches, dizziness, and increased breathing rate at concentrations above 1000 ppm to more severe symptoms like confusion and loss of consciousness above 5000 ppm. Concentrations of CO2 above 40,000 ppm can be life-threatening.
In conclusion, CO2 can be a powerful ally in boosting cannabis growth and yield when used correctly. By maintaining optimal CO2 levels, distributing it evenly, and adhering to safety guidelines, you can ensure a successful cannabis cultivation operation.
