Overview of Flowering Time Outdoors in New York
- Most cannabis strains start flowering based on photoperiod, which is determined by the number of uninterrupted hours of darkness each day.
- In New York, flowering generally begins in mid-August to early September when plants receive 12-14 hours of uninterrupted darkness each night.
- Autoflowering strains that flower based on age, not light cycle, will begin flowering earlier, around late July or early August in New York.
- Flowering lasts 8-10 weeks on average, meaning harvest typically occurs in October or November before the first frost.
- Strains should be selected carefully to match New York’s growing season and flower fast enough to mature fully outdoors. Indicas and fast-flowering sativas are good options.
When Does Flowering Start Outdoors in New York
Most cannabis grown outdoors in New York will begin flowering when the night length reaches 12-14 hours of uninterrupted darkness. This triggers the hormonal changes in the plant that induce flowering.
In New York, the summer solstice occurs around June 21st. After this, the nights start getting longer each day while the days get shorter. By mid-August, New York reaches the critical 12-14 hours of darkness that initiates flowering for photoperiod cannabis strains.
The specific date flowering begins can vary slightly based on strain and exact location in the state. But mid-August to early September is the typical timeframe you can expect to see the first signs of flowering.
Pistils emerging from buds and plants transitioning from vegetative growth to focus on flower production are clear indicators flowering has started.
Timing Harvest for New York’s Outdoor Season
Since flowering lasts 8-10 weeks for most strains, timing is important when growing outdoors in New York.
You want to select fast-flowering strains that can finish maturing in October or early November before frost hits. Indicas and some sativas are good options.
Autoflowering strains are also worth considering since they flower based on age, not light cycle. They start flowering earlier, around late July or early August, finishing by October typically.
Monitor trichome development closely towards the end of flowering. Harvest when most trichomes are cloudy/milky, and about 10-30% are amber. This ensures maximum THC levels with some CBD for the ideal flower quality.
Growing Tips to Maximize Flowering Outdoors
Here are some tips to help your plants flower optimally outdoors in New York:
- Choose fast-flowering strains suitable for your region. Stick to 8-9 week flowering times.
- Give plants nitrogen-rich fertilizer in veg, switching to potassium and phosphorus once flowering starts.
- Prune plants just before flowering to remove lower branches and improve air circulation.
- Protect plants from wind, rain, and cold which can damage flowers. Use covers if needed.
- Check frequently for signs of mold or bud rot and remove any affected areas promptly.
- Harvest during peak potency when trichomes are mostly cloudy and some are amber.
Conclusion
Paying close attention to light cycles and darkness is key for successful outdoor cannabis cultivation in New York. Aim to have fast-flowering plants that start developing buds in August and finish by late October or early November. With proper planning and care, you can achieve an abundant outdoor harvest in New York’s favorable summer conditions.