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How long does it take for cannabis to grow? A Complete 2025 Guide for South African Growers

How long does it take for cannabis to grow?

Growing cannabis takes about 3 to 5 months from seed to harvest. However, the right time to harvest depends on many factors.

This guide will explain the cannabis growth cycle, the best harvest time, important factors that affect harvest timing, and how to tell when your plants are ready.


1.Cannabis Growth Stages

Cannabis Growth Stages

Cannabis grows in two main stages: vegetative stage (growth stage) and flowering stage. The time for each stage depends on the strain, light conditions, and growing method.

1.1 Vegetative Stage (4-6 weeks)

This is when cannabis plants grow leaves and roots. It usually lasts 4-6 weeks.

  • Light: 16-18 hours per day (Use full-spectrum LED lights)

  • Temperature & Humidity: 22-28ยฐC / 60-70% RH

  • Nutrients: High nitrogen (3-1-2 NPK), fertilize every 10 days

Tips for South Africa:

  • In summer, use fans for ventilation due to high temperatures.

  • In winter, use greenhouse lighting to extend the vegetative stage.

1.2 Flowering Stage (8-10 weeks)

This is when the plant starts making buds. The flowering stage is longer than the vegetative stage.

Stage Duration Signs Key Actions
Early Bloom 1-2 weeks White hair-like pistils appear Switch to 12/12 light cycle
Bud Growth 3-6 weeks Trichomes (resin glands) form Increase phosphorus and potassium (1-3-2 NPK)
Maturity 7-10 weeks Pistils change color, trichomes turn cloudy Reduce watering gradually
  • Sativa strains take longer to flower than Indica strains.

2. 5 Factors That Affect Harvest Timing

5 Factors That Affect Harvest Timing

2.1 Cannabis Strain

Different strains have different growth cycles. Popular cannabis strains in South Africa include:

Rank Strain Name Growth Time Common Use
1 Durban Poison 10-12 weeks Uplifting, good for focus
2 Swazi Gold 8-9 weeks Relaxing, euphoric
3 Transkei Gold 11-13 weeks Strong effects, unique flavor
4 Malawi Gold 16-18 weeks Long-lasting effects
5 Africa Sativa 16-18 weeks Energizing, grows well in South Africa
6 Rooibaard 14-16 weeks Hardy, adaptable
7 White Widow 12-14 weeks Strong, relaxing effects

2.2 Light Cycle

Cannabis plants need different light cycles in different stages:

Stage Light Requirement Best Timing
Vegetative Stage 16-18 hours of light per day 18 hours light / 6 hours dark
Flowering Stage 12 hours of light per day 12 hours light / 12 hours dark

Recommended๏ผš grow light south Africa
1.800W Full-spectrum LED grow lightsย 
2. 200W quantum board grow light

2.3 Temperature & Humidity

Technique Best for Benefits Drawbacks Effect on Harvest Timing
Sea of Green (SOG) Indica strains Faster harvest, high yield Harder to manage, needs strong light Shortens growth cycle
Low-Stress Training (LST) Autoflower & photoperiod strains Even growth, more yield Needs regular maintenance Can speed up flowering
Topping Photoperiod strains More branches, higher yield Must trim at right time Promotes faster flowering
Super Cropping Photoperiod strains Stronger plant, bigger harvest Risk of damage if done wrong Encourages faster bloom
Screen of Green (ScrOG) Photoperiod strains Better light exposure More work required Speeds up flowering

Note: If humidity is above 60% in flowering stage, mold may develop.

2.4 Growing Techniques

Different growing techniques can speed up growth and increase yield.

Technique Best for Benefits Drawbacks Effect on Harvest Timing
Sea of Green (SOG) Indica strains Faster harvest, high yield Harder to manage, needs strong light Shortens growth cycle
Low-Stress Training (LST) Autoflower & photoperiod strains Even growth, more yield Needs regular maintenance Can speed up flowering
Topping Photoperiod strains More branches, higher yield Must trim at right time Promotes faster flowering
Super Cropping Photoperiod strains Stronger plant, bigger harvest Risk of damage if done wrong Encourages faster bloom
Screen of Green (ScrOG) Photoperiod strains Better light exposure More work required Speeds up flowering

ย 3. How to Tell When Cannabis is Ready to Harvest

How to Tell When Cannabis is Ready to Harvest

You cannot rely only on a calendar. You need to look for specific signs that your cannabis is ready to harvest.

3.1 Check the Trichomes

Trichomes are the tiny crystal-like glands on cannabis buds. They contain THC and CBD. Use a 40x magnifier to check their color.

  • Clear: Not ready, THC levels are low.

  • Milky White: Best time to harvest, highest THC levels.

  • Amber: Slightly overripe, lower THC but more relaxing effects.

3.2 Look at the Buds and Leaves

  • Buds change color from green to purple, red, or yellow.

  • Leaves turn yellow and may start falling off.

3.3 Smell and Touch

  • Mature buds feel firm and dense.

  • Strong, pungent smell means the plant is ready.

Tip: Use a 10x-40x magnifier to check the trichomes for accurate results.


Conclusion

How long does it take for cannabis to grow

The best time to harvest depends on the cannabis strain, growing conditions, and timing. The best sign is when trichomes turn milky white.

Harvesting at the right time ensures the best potency and flavor.


5.FAQย 

  1. Q: How long does cannabis take to grow?

    • A: 3 to 5 months from seed to harvest, depending on the strain and conditions.

  2. Q: How do I know my cannabis is ready to harvest?

    • A: Check trichomes with a magnifier. When they turn milky white, it's time to harvest.

  3. Q: What happens if I harvest too early or too late?

    • A: Too early = weak effects, too late = lower potency and bitter taste.

  4. Q: How many cannabis plants can I grow at home in South Africa?

    • A: The 2018 law allows up to 4 plants for private use, but selling is illegal.

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