When to remove heating mat from cannabis seedlings?
Cannabis seedlings, like many other plant seedlings, benefit from bottom heat during their early stages of growth. This heat promotes faster germination and root development. However, just like with other plants, it's important to gradually wean cannabis seedlings off the heat mat as they mature. Here's a general guideline for when to remove the heating mat from cannabis seedlings:
- Germination Stage: Use the heat mat during the germination stage to encourage quick and uniform germination. Cannabis seeds typically germinate within a few days to a week.
- First Set of True Leaves: Once the cannabis seedlings have developed their first set of true leaves (the second set of leaves after the cotyledons), which usually occurs around 1 to 2 weeks after germination, you can start to reduce the reliance on the heat mat.
- Gradual Reduction: Similar to other plants, gradually reduce the heat provided by the mat over the course of a week or two. You can do this by lowering the temperature setting on the mat or by raising the mat off the surface it's resting on.
- Monitor Growth: Keep a close eye on the seedlings' growth and overall health as you reduce the heat. If they continue to grow and develop without any signs of stress, you're on the right track.
- Room Temperature: Cannabis seedlings can thrive at room temperatures (around 70-75°F or 21-24°C) once they have established a healthy root system and a few sets of true leaves. At this point, you can safely remove the heat mat.
