Seasonal Timing for Outdoor Cannabis
Outdoor cannabis is driven by the sun. Understanding seasonal timing is the most important factor in a successful outdoor grow.
The Cannabis Light Cycle Outdoors
Photoperiod cannabis begins flowering when days shorten below roughly 14 hours of light — typically around late June/early July in southern Europe. This means plants spend spring and early summer in vegetative growth and flower through late summer and autumn. In Malta, harvest typically falls in October–November.
When to Germinate
In Malta and southern Mediterranean climates, germinate indoors in late February–March, then transplant outdoors after the last frost risk (typically March–April). This gives plants a long vegetative period before flowering is triggered, leading to larger plants and bigger yields.
Autoflower Outdoor Timing
Autoflowers flower based on age, not light, so they can be grown at any time of year in mild climates. In Malta you can run 2–3 outdoor auto crops per year. Plant in April, harvest in June, plant again in July, harvest in September, plant one final round in October for a December harvest if temperatures allow.
Dealing with Rain and Humidity
Late flowering (September–October) in Mediterranean climates often brings rain and increased humidity — the main threat to outdoor buds is bud rot (Botrytis). Choose mould-resistant strains if growing in humid areas. Shake water off buds after rain, ensure airflow around plants, and check buds daily in wet weather.
Quick Tips
- Check historical weather data for your area to understand when risk periods occur.
- Start seeds 4–6 weeks before your last frost date to maximise vegetative growth time.
- Keep a calendar tracking your plants' development against previous years to improve future grows.