• You have full control over how your plants are grown, including nutrients, lighting, and pest management.
• No exposure to commercial pesticides or chemicals—just clean, homegrown cannabis.
• Dispensary weed often has mold, pesticides, and falsified COAs – Because the market is so expensive and competitive, many large-scale growers cut corners to survive. There have been numerous reports of moldy or contaminated cannabis passing lab tests due to falsified Certificates of Analysis (COAs).
• Homegrown cannabis ensures purity – When you grow your own, you know exactly what’s in it and can avoid harmful contaminants.

• While setup costs vary, growing at home is much cheaper long-term than buying from dispensaries.
• A simple outdoor setup (as low as $75) can yield a season’s worth of cannabis.
• Even a small indoor grow (around $300-$500) can save you thousands per year compared to dispensary prices.
• Avoid unnecessary taxation – Dispensary cannabis is heavily taxed, often 30-40%+ in some states. Growing at home eliminates tax markups and keeps your supply affordable.

• Grow the strains you love, whether you prefer high-THC, CBD-rich, or rare genetics.
• Experiment with different flavors, effects, and potency levels.

• No more dispensary trips—you always have fresh cannabis on hand.
• Private & discreet—avoid ID scans and databases at dispensaries.

• Growing cannabis is a rewarding hobby, teaching you about plant care and cultivation.
• Perfect for beginners who want to learn gardening skills while producing their own supply.

• Home growing can be more secure than purchasing from unknown sources.

• Reduce the environmental impact of large-scale cannabis farming.

For beginners, we highly recommend the Mars Hydro TS600 2'x2' Tent Kit. This kit includes everything you need to start growing indoors. Just add soil, seeds, water, and power, and you’ll be growing in no time!

Growing cannabis at home can be a rewarding and cost-effective experience. While it requires some initial preparation and ongoing care, many beginners find it manageable with the right knowledge.

To successfully grow cannabis, you’ll need to learn essential factors such as:

• Light cycles – Understanding when and how long to expose plants to light.
• Nutrient requirements – Providing the right balance of nutrients for healthy growth.
• Ventilation and airflow – Ensuring proper air circulation to prevent mold and pests.

There are many online guides, books, and forums available to help first-time growers. Explore our GroHaus Cannabis Growing Learning Center, a comprehensive resource that provides step-by-step guidance for every stage of cultivation. We also offer a selection of books and guides to further expand your cultivation knowledge.

Creating the right environment is key to healthy plant growth. Essential setup components include:

• Grow space – A dedicated area indoors (grow tent, closet) or outdoors.
• Grow lights – LED, HID, or fluorescent lights for indoor cultivation.
• Ventilation system – Fans and air filters to maintain airflow and temperature.
• Growing medium – Soil, hydroponics, or coco coir, depending on your preference.

Cannabis plants require regular attention to thrive. This includes:

• Watering and feeding – Adjusting nutrients and pH levels as needed.
• Pest control – Monitoring for pests and mold to prevent damage.
• Training and pruning – Techniques like low-stress training (LST) to maximize yield.

Developing a consistent routine makes these tasks easier over time.

Before starting, check local cannabis laws regarding home cultivation. Some areas have restrictions on:

• The number of plants you can grow.
• Indoor vs. outdoor growing regulations.
• Storage and security requirements.

While it’s recommended to stay within legal limits, it’s also important to understand and exercise your Fourth Amendment rights, which protect you from unlawful search and seizure. Law enforcement cannot enter your home without your consent or a warrant signed by a judge. Knowing your rights ensures that you can cultivate responsibly and legally while maintaining your privacy.

• Complete control over light, temperature, and humidity
• More privacy, no risk of nosy neighbors
• Ability to grow year-round, regardless of seasons
• Higher potency and consistency with an optimized environment

• Higher startup costs (grow lights, ventilation, etc.)
• Increased electricity costs over time
• Requires more maintenance and monitoring
• Limited space unless you have a dedicated grow area

Indoor growing is best for people in cold or unpredictable climates or those who want maximum control over their plants.

• Free sunlight, reducing electricity costs
• Lower startup costs—just soil, pots, and nutrients
• Less daily maintenance, as nature provides key elements
• Potential for larger plants and higher yields

• Dependent on weather conditions (excess rain, heat, or cold can be problematic)
• Less privacy unless the grow area is hidden and secure
• Higher risk of pests, mold, and animals damaging plants
• Growing is seasonal, meaning you can’t control harvest timing as easily

Outdoor growing is best for people who live in warm, sunny climates and have secure outdoor space to grow.

• If you want full control and the ability to grow year-round, go with indoor growing.
• If you want a low-cost, natural approach and have the right climate, outdoor growing is a great option.
• If you have the space and resources, you can experiment with both to see what works best.

Growing cannabis can be rewarding, but beginners often run into common pitfalls that can slow growth, reduce yields, or even kill plants. Here are the most frequent mistakes new growers make—and how to avoid them.

Many beginners overwater their plants, thinking more water equals faster growth. In reality, cannabis plants need a balance—too much water can cause root rot, while too little will stunt their development.

How to Avoid It:

• Let the top inch of soil dry out before watering again.
• Use pots with drainage holes to prevent water from pooling.
• Observe plant behavior—drooping leaves can indicate either overwatering or underwatering, so check the soil before reacting.

Learm more about watering schedules and methods in our Cannabis Plant Care Guide.

Not all soil is suitable for cannabis. Many beginners use dense, nutrient-poor, or non-draining soil, which can suffocate roots and slow growth.

How to Avoid It:

• Use light, well-aerated soil with good drainage, like a mix of coco coir, perlite, and organic compost.
• Avoid heavy garden soil or anything that retains too much moisture.

Learn more about the best growing mediums to use for your grow in our Growing Media Guide.

Cannabis plants need strong, consistent light to grow properly. A common mistake is using weak, household LED bulbs or placing plants too far from the light source.

How to Avoid It:

• Use high-quality grow lights like LED, HPS, or CMH lights.
• Keep lights at the correct distance—too close can burn plants, too far can cause stretching.
• Make sure plants get at least 18 hours of light per day during the vegetative stage.

Learn more about proper lighting and light schedules in our Grow Lights Guide.

Many beginners think more nutrients mean faster growth, but overfeeding can lead to nutrient burn, where leaf tips turn yellow or brown. On the other hand, neglecting nutrients can stunt growth.

How to Avoid It:

• Start with half-strength nutrients and adjust based on plant response.
• Follow a feeding schedule based on your plant’s growth stage.
• Look for signs of nutrient burn (yellowing leaf tips) or deficiencies (pale or spotted leaves).

Learn more about the best nutrients and nutrient schedules to use for your cannabis grow in our Cannabis Nurtrients Guide.

Cannabis plants absorb nutrients best in a specific pH range (6.0–7.0 in soil, 5.5–6.5 in hydroponics). If pH is too high or too low, nutrient absorption is blocked, leading to deficiencies.

How to Avoid It:

• Use a pH meter to test water and nutrient solutions.
• Adjust pH using pH up/down solutions if needed.

Learm more about pH meters and testing in our Cannabis Plant Care & Maintenance Guide.

Cannabis thrives in a stable environment. If temperatures are too high or humidity is too low, plants can struggle to grow properly.

How to Avoid It:

• Keep temperatures between 70–85°F (21–29°C) during the day and slightly cooler at night.
• Maintain humidity at 40–60%, adjusting as plants mature.
• Use fans and ventilation to prevent mold and heat stress.

Learn more about creating the best climate for your cannabis plants in our Cannabis Environment & Climate Guide.

Many new growers harvest too early, missing out on peak potency and yield. Others wait too long, leading to degraded THC levels.

How to Avoid It:

• Check the trichomes (resin glands) using a magnifying glass.
• Harvest when trichomes turn milky white with some amber for the best potency.

Learn more about best cannabis harvesting techniques in our Cannabis Harvest Guide.

Cannabis growing takes time, and impatience leads to rushing key steps like drying, curing, or even harvesting too soon.

How to Avoid It:

• Follow a grow timeline for your strain.
• Allow proper drying (7–10 days) and curing (2+ weeks) for the best flavor and potency.
• Enjoy the process—good cannabis takes time!

Learn more about proper curing techniques in our Cannabis Harvest & Curing Guide.

Avoiding these beginner mistakes will set you up for success and lead to healthier, more productive cannabis plants. Learning from each grow is part of the journey.

Want a step-by-step guide to growing?
Download our free beginner’s checklist to get started the right way.

For a comprehensive step-by-step guide that will walk you trough your cannabis grow from seed to harvest, refer to the GroHaus Cannabis Learning Center Full Series.

Setting up a home grow operation requires some upfront costs for equipment, including:

• Grow lights (for indoor setups)
• Grow tents or dedicated space
• Pots, soil, and nutrients
• Seeds or clones

A beginner grow tent kit starts as low as $254.95, with total startup costs varying based on setup size and quality.

Over time, home cultivation can save thousands of dollars compared to buying from dispensaries.

• Dispensary vs. Homegrown Costs: The price of dispensary cannabis can range from $10 to $20+ per gram plus tax, depending on quality and location.
• Homegrown Cost Per Gram: When factoring in all expenses, homegrown cannabis averages between $1 to $5 per gram, making it much more affordable.
• Pound-Per-Year Savings: The average cost to produce one pound of premium medical-grade cannabis is around $475, which could last the average user a year or more.

When you grow your own, you control:

• Strain selection – Choose strains tailored to your needs (flavor, potency, effects).
• Nutrient quality – Grow pesticide-free, organic cannabis for a cleaner experience.
• Curing & drying process – Avoid mass-produced, over-dried commercial cannabis.

While startup costs vary, the long-term savings of growing cannabis at home are substantial. Beyond saving money, you’ll enjoy the satisfaction of home cultivation and complete control over your cannabis experience.

The cost of growing cannabis at home depends on whether you grow indoors or outdoors, the equipment you choose, and the scale of your grow. A small, budget-friendly setup can cost as little as $100, while a high-end grow can run over $1,500.

Below is a breakdown of the costs for both outdoor and indoor growing methods.

Best for: Growers with outdoor space and a suitable climate.
Pros: Low startup cost, uses natural sunlight, less maintenance.
Cons: Climate-dependent, risk of pests, security concerns.

Best for: Growers who want full control over light, temperature, and humidity.
Pros: Consistent yields, year-round growing, better privacy.
Cons: Higher startup cost, requires ongoing electricity use.

• Outdoor growing is the most budget-friendly but depends on climate and security.
• Indoor growing costs more upfront but gives you better environmental control and privacy.
• First-time growers can start small with 1–2 plants and upgrade as needed.

Looking for a detailed cost breakdown for setting up an indoor grow room? We'll go over that in the section below, or for an even deeper dive, head over to the Grow Room Setup Guide module in the GroHaus Cannabis Learning Center.

A simple grow setup provides everything needed to cultivate cannabis successfully without breaking the bank.

• Grow Tent: $50 to $300+, depending on size and quality.
• Lighting: LED grow lights start at around $100 for small setups but can go up to $500+ for larger, high-output models.
• Ventilation: A basic exhaust fan and carbon filter setup costs around $100 to $200.
• Growing Medium & Containers: Soil and pots typically start at $50, while hydroponic systems may cost more.
• Nutrients: Basic cannabis nutrients range from $50 to $100 per grow cycle.
• Miscellaneous: Timers, pH testing kits, and other accessories can add $50 to $100.

Total Estimated Cost for a Basic Setup: $400 to $1000 depending on how big you want to go and the level of equipment quality you want to invest in. Beginner tent kits can start as low as $254.95, making it accessible for new growers.

An advanced grow room includes high-end equipment for maximum control over the environment, larger yields, and higher-quality buds. This setup is ideal for growers who want to optimize plant health, maximize potency, and achieve consistent results.

• High-Quality Grow Tent: $300 to $600+
• High-Intensity Lights (HID or Premium LED): $500 to $1000+
• Advanced Ventilation System: $200 to $500
• Hydroponic Systems or Premium Soil: $100 to $300+
• Specialized Nutrients & Additives: $100 to $200+
• Climate Control (Heaters, Humidifiers, Dehumidifiers): $100 to $500
• Automation & Monitoring (Smart Controllers, Automated Watering, etc.): Several hundred dollars

Total Estimated Cost for an Advanced Setup: $1500 to $5000+

Some growers choose this route over a basic setup because:

• Higher Yields – Advanced lighting, CO₂ supplementation, and optimized conditions can significantly increase production.
• Better Quality – Precise control over temperature, humidity, and nutrients leads to more potent, flavorful, and visually appealing buds.
• Efficiency & Automation – Automated systems reduce labor, improve consistency, and minimize the risk of human error.
• Long-Term Investment – While the upfront cost is higher, a well-designed setup can pay for itself over time by producing larger harvests with fewer issues.

For those growing personal-use amounts on a budget, a basic setup is often sufficient. However, for serious home growers or those cultivating at higher volumes, an advanced setup provides the tools needed to maximize efficiency and results.

The amount of space needed to grow cannabis indoors depends on several factors, including:

• The number of plants you plan to cultivate
• The size of the plants at maturity
• The growing method you use
• The equipment required for lighting, ventilation, and maintenance

• A small grow (1-2 plants) can fit in a closet, cabinet, or small tent (2’x2’ to 3’x3’).
• A medium grow (3-6 plants) may need 4’x4’ to 5’x5’ of space.
• A larger grow (7+ plants) requires a dedicated room or a larger grow tent (such as 8’x8’ or more).

• Indica strains tend to stay short and bushy, making them ideal for smaller spaces.
• Sativa strains grow taller and slender, requiring more vertical space.
• Autoflowering and dwarf strains are perfect for compact setups with limited height.

• Soil-based growing requires larger containers but is beginner-friendly.
• Hydroponic systems can save floor space and promote faster growth.
• SCROG (Screen of Green) and SOG (Sea of Green) methods maximize yield in limited space by training plants.
• Vertical growing allows stacking plants to increase production in small spaces.

• Grow lights (LEDs, HPS, or CMH) need proper spacing & adjustable height.
• Ventilation systems (fans, filters, ducts) require space for air circulation & odor control.
• Room for maintenance is crucial—leave enough space to access and care for your plants.

As a rough estimate:

• Small-scale personal grows → 2-4 sq. ft. per plant
• Larger home grows → 4-10 sq. ft. per plant (depending on strain & method)

It’s always better to plan for slightly more space than you think you need to accommodate plant growth and equipment adjustments.

GrōHaus carries a wide range of grow tents to fit any setup—whether you’re working with a tiny closet or a full grow room.

Browse Grow Tents & Kits Here

Your growing method plays a huge role in how much space you need. Want to learn how to maximize your grow area?

Explore the Growing Methods module to find the best setup for your space.

• Select a room, tent, or closet with enough space for your plants and equipment.
• Ensure access to electricity, ventilation, and water sources.
• Consider light leaks—a fully enclosed area prevents unwanted light exposure.

• Install an exhaust fan and ducting to remove stale air and control humidity.
• Consider intake fans or passive vents for fresh air circulation.
• Use a carbon filter to help control odor.

Tip: Proper airflow prevents mold, mildew, and heat buildup, ensuring healthy plants.

• Choose the right grow lights for your setup:
  
  • LEDs – Energy-efficient, low heat
  • HID (HPS/MH) – High-intensity, great for yield
  • Fluorescent (CFL/T5) – Best for seedlings and small grows
  
  
• Position lights at the correct distance to avoid light burn.
• Use timers to automate light cycles:
  
  • 18/6 (18 hours on, 6 off) for vegetative growth
  • 12/12 (12 hours on, 12 off) for flowering

Tip: Light leaks during flowering can stress plants and cause hermaphroditism—seal your grow space properly.

• Use a thermometer and hygrometer to monitor conditions.
• Keep temperatures between 70-85°F (21-29°C) during the day and slightly cooler at night.
• Maintain humidity levels:
  
  • Seedlings: 65-70%
  • Vegetative stage: 40-60%
  • Flowering stage: 40-50%

Tip: High humidity can lead to mold and bud rot, while low humidity can slow growth.

• Use trays or saucers to catch excess water runoff.
• Ensure pots have drainage holes to prevent root rot.
• Avoid overwatering—let soil dry slightly between waterings.

• Soil: Easy to manage, beginner-friendly. Look for organic, well-aerated soil with perlite.
• Coco Coir: Retains moisture, improves root oxygenation.
• Hydroponics: Faster growth, higher yields, but requires more maintenance.

Tip: If using soil, avoid Miracle-Gro—it contains slow-release nutrients that can harm cannabis plants.

• Use cannabis-specific nutrients for best results.
• Follow a feeding schedule to avoid nutrient deficiencies or burn.
• Key nutrients:
  
  • Nitrogen (N) – Essential for vegetative growth
  • Phosphorus (P) – Supports root and flower development
  • Potassium (K) – Strengthens stems and enhances resistance

Tip: Start with half-strength nutrients and adjust as needed.

• Cannabis thrives in slightly acidic conditions:
  
  • Soil: pH 6.0-6.5
  • Hydroponics/Coco: pH 5.5-6.5
  
  
• Use a pH meter to test water and nutrient solution regularly.

Tip: Incorrect pH can cause nutrient lockout, leading to deficiencies.

• Use sticky traps to monitor for pests.
• Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs or predatory mites.
• Regularly inspect plants for signs of pests, mold, or nutrient deficiencies.

Tip: Maintain a clean grow space—sanitize tools and remove dead leaves.

• Keep your grow room clutter-free to improve airflow and accessibility.
• Regularly sterilize trays, tools, and surfaces to prevent mold and bacteria buildup.
• Store nutrients, pH meters, and other tools in an organized manner.

Tip: A well-maintained grow room leads to healthier plants and higher yields.

Now that you have the basics, it's time to fine-tune your setup for maximum efficiency and yield.

Want a deeper dive?
Check out our Grow Room Setup module in the GrōHaus Learning Center for expert tips and advanced techniques.

Choose a suitable location, such as a spare room, closet, grow tent, or outdoor space. Ensure the area has:

• Access to electricity, ventilation, and water
• Complete darkness for 6–12 hours per day during certain growth stages

Learn more about how to set up a cannabis grow room in our Grow Room Setup Guide, or if you have more questions about choosing the best grow tent for your grow, check out our Grow Tents Guide, both of which are featured in our GroHaus Cannabis Learning Center.

• Seeds – Choose high-quality cannabis seeds from a reputable breeder. Visit our retail location for a large selection of high quality seeds.
• Clones – Cuttings from a mature plant that allow for faster growth and uniform genetics.

Learn more about propagation techniques in our Seeding, Cloning, & Rooting Guide module in the GroHaus Cannabis Learning Center.

Lighting is essential for photosynthesis and healthy plant development. The most common types used are:

• LED Grow Lights – Energy-efficient, long-lasting, and produce less heat.
• HID (High-Intensity Discharge) Lights – Includes HPS (High-Pressure Sodium) and MH (Metal Halide) bulbs, known for high yields but require cooling.
• Fluorescent Lights (CFL or T5) – Suitable for small grows but less powerful than LEDs or HIDs.

Choose the appropriate wattage and coverage based on your grow space size. For more information about choosing the best grow light for your home grow, visit our Grow Lights Guide module in the GroHaus Cannabis Learning Center.

The medium you choose affects how your plants absorb nutrients. Common options:

• Soil – Beginner-friendly and naturally contains nutrients.
• Coco Coir – A hydroponic-friendly alternative with better aeration than soil.
• Hydroponic Systems – Faster growth and higher yields but require more maintenance.

To learn more about the different types of grow media or if you need some help deciding on the best cannabis grow medium for your grow, check out our Grow Media Guide module in the GroHaus Cannabis Learning Center.

• Fabric pots or plastic containers with drainage holes help prevent overwatering and promote healthy root growth.

For more information about the types of pots and containers for growing cannabis, head over to our Garden Care Guide in the GroHaus Cannabis Learning Center.

Cannabis requires macronutrients and micronutrients for optimal growth:

• NPK (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium) – The three primary nutrients.
• Trace Minerals – Calcium, magnesium, iron, and other micronutrients.
• Organic vs. Synthetic Nutrients – Organic nutrients improve soil health, while synthetic nutrients offer faster absorption.

To learn more about how and when to use nutirents, nutrient schedules, and the best nutrients for growing cannabis with your chosen medium, visit our Cannabis Nutrients Guide module in the GroHaus Cannabis Learning Center.

• Soil pH Range: 6.0–6.5
• Hydroponic pH Range: 5.5–6.5

Keeping pH levels in check ensures maximum nutrient absorption. If you'd like to dive deeper into how to use pH meters and other related plant care tools, check out the Cannabis Plant Care & Maintenance Guide in the GroHaus Cannabis Learning Center.

Proper airflow prevents mold, mildew, and stagnant air buildup. Essential equipment includes:

• Exhaust fans – Removes hot air and controls humidity.
• Oscillating fans – Improves air circulation around plants.
• Carbon filter – Reduces odors.

Learn more about fans, blowers, and filters in our Cannabis Environment & Climate Guide where you will also find shopping guidance so you know exactly which equipment you'll need for your indoor cannabis grow.

• Ideal Temperature: 70–85°F (21–29°C)
• Ideal Humidity: 40–60% (varies by growth stage)

For a step-by-step guide on how to achieve the best climate for your indoor cannabis grow, as well as the right equipment to use, explore our Cannabis Environment & Climate Guide in the Cannabis Learning Center.

• Sharp pruning shears – For trimming excess foliage.
• Scissors – For harvesting and manicuring buds.

Questions about when or how to prune your plants? Checkout our Cannabis Plant Care & Maintenance Guide.

Be prepared to handle pests like spider mites, aphids, and fungus gnats. Use:

• Neem oil – A natural pesticide.
• Sticky traps – Helps detect infestations early.
• Beneficial insects (e.g., ladybugs) – Natural pest control.

Our Cannabis Plant Care & Maintenance Guide will walk you through how to protect your cannabis plants from insects and disease, as well as which products to use and when.

As plants grow tall and produce heavy buds, they may need extra support:

• Trellises, stakes, or netting prevent branch breakage and improve yields.

Learn more about training and supporting your cannabis plants in our Cannabis Plant Care & Maintenance Guide.

• Watering can, hose, or drip irrigation system
• Filtered or pH-balanced water to prevent nutrient lockout

Ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogged soil and root rot. Learn more about watering techniques and systems in our Cannabis Plant Care & Maintenance Guide.

• Check local laws and regulations regarding home cannabis cultivation.
• Educate yourself on proper growing techniques to ensure a successful harvest.

By gathering these supplies and maintaining proper growing conditions, you can create a productive and rewarding home grow setup.

Pro Tip: As you gather your supplies, remember that quality matters! Investing in high-quality soil, reliable grow lights, and proper ventilation can make or break your grow. Start with the essentials, and as you gain experience, fine-tune your setup for even better results. Happy growing!

Yes! GrōHaus offers complete tent kits that include everything you need to start growing.

• Grow Tent – Provides a controlled environment for optimal plant growth.
• Grow Lights – Ensures proper light cycles for healthy development.
• Ventilation System – Includes fans and filters for airflow and odor control.
• Timers & Accessories – Helps automate light schedules and maintain ideal conditions.

• Soil or Growing Medium
• Seeds or Clones
• Access to Water & Electricity

Get started today! Browse our collection of Tent Kits Here and start growing with ease.

Need help deciding on the best grow tent or grow tent kit for your cannabis grow? Check out our Grow Tents Guide module in the GroHaus Cannabis Learning Center.

• Easier to Manage – Soil provides a natural buffer against common mistakes like overwatering, nutrient imbalances, and pH fluctuations.
• Less Equipment Needed – No need for pumps, reservoirs, or complex irrigation systems, making it more affordable and beginner-friendly.
• Natural Nutrient Source – Good soil contains organic matter and beneficial microorganisms, reducing the need for constant nutrient adjustments.
• More Forgiving of Mistakes – Soil retains moisture and nutrients, giving beginners more flexibility if they overwater or miscalculate nutrients.

To learn more about soil-based growing techniques and the supplies needed for this method, checkout our Indoor Soil Grow Checklist and Guide module in the GroHaus Cannabis Learning Center.

While hydroponic systems offer faster growth and more control, they come with:

• A steeper learning curve
• Strict nutrient and pH management
• More equipment and maintenance

For new growers, starting with soil builds a strong foundation in plant care before transitioning to hydroponics for advanced control and higher yields.

Want to compare both methods?
Check out our Indoor Soil Grow Checklist or Hydroponics Grow Checklist for a full breakdown of each setup!

If you’re new to growing cannabis, choosing the right strain can make the process much easier. The best beginner-friendly strains are:

Resilient to mistakes (like overwatering or nutrient imbalances).
Resistant to pests and mold.

Here are some of the easiest strains for beginners:

• Indicas & Hybrids Are Easier Than Sativas – Indicas tend to be shorter and bushier, requiring less training than tall, stretchy sativas.
• Auto-Flowering Strains Are Low Maintenance – Autos don’t need light cycle changes and grow faster (~8–10 weeks), but they can’t be trained as much.
• Resistant Genetics Are Key – Look for strains labeled resistant to mold, pests, and temperature fluctuations.

Start with Feminized Seeds – These guarantee only bud-producing female plants (no wasted space on males).
Choose a Forgiving Medium – Soil is more beginner-friendly than hydroponics.
Keep It Simple – Stick to basic nutrients, good airflow, and consistent watering.

If you’re growing indoors, check out our Indoor Soil Grow Checklist & Shopping Guide module in the GroHaus Learning Center for a complete breakdown of what you’ll need!

Want to make sure you have everything you need to start your first grow?

Download our FREE Ultimate Cannabis Grower’s Starter Checklist – A step-by-step checklist to help you stay organized in your setup.

• Germination (1–7 days) – Sprouting seeds before planting them in the growing medium.
• Vegetative Stage (3–6 weeks) – Plants focus on foliage growth; this stage can be extended for larger plants.
• Flowering Stage (6–12+ weeks) – Bud development occurs; timing depends on strain (indicas tend to finish faster than sativas).
• Harvesting (Several days to weeks) – Cutting and trimming buds when they reach peak maturity.
• Drying & Curing (2–10+ weeks) – Drying takes 7–14 days, while curing can last 2–8+ weeks to enhance flavor and potency.

Most of the hands-on work happens at key milestones:

• Setting up the grow area
• Planting seeds or clones
• Training, trimming, and pruning plants
• Harvesting and curing

During the rest of the grow, plants largely take care of themselves as long as they receive proper light, water, and nutrients. Daily involvement typically ranges from 20–40 minutes, depending on the system used. Smart monitoring and automation (such as automated watering or climate control) can reduce this time even further.

Between major tasks, growers spend time:

• Monitoring for pests or diseases
• Checking water conditions and pH levels
• Ensuring plants are thriving

Growing cannabis at home is a time investment, but much of the process involves watching and enjoying your plants as they develop. With experience, growers often streamline their routine, making each cycle more efficient and rewarding.

The time required to grow cannabis depends on your chosen growing method. Techniques like autoflowering strains can speed up the process, while hydroponic systems may offer faster growth compared to soil. On the other hand, organic soil grows often take longer but can enhance flavor and quality.

Learn More: Explore different growing methods and find the best fit for your schedule in our Growing Methods module!

Making your own cannabis concentrates requires the right equipment and a solid understanding of extraction methods. Below is a breakdown of the essential supplies needed for different concentrate-making techniques.

High-quality cannabis flower or trim is the primary ingredient for making concentrates. Choose strains with desirable characteristics, such as:

• High cannabinoid content (THC, CBD, etc.)
• Rich terpene profiles to enhance flavor and effects

Some extraction methods require a solvent to dissolve cannabinoids and terpenes from the plant material. Common solvents include:

• Butane – Used in butane hash oil (BHO) extraction
• Ethanol – Suitable for methods like:
  
  • QWET (Quick Wash Ethanol Technique)
  • QWISO (Quick Wash Isopropyl Alcohol)
• CO₂ – Utilized in supercritical CO₂ extraction, a more advanced method typically used in commercial settings.

Each solvent has its own advantages and risks, so proper handling and safety precautions are essential.

For those looking for a safer and easier method, a rosin press is a great alternative.

• Uses only heat and pressure to extract concentrates
• Requires no solvents, making it safer for home use
• Produces high-quality rosin from flower, kief, or hash

A rosin press is ideal for beginners who want to make concentrates without dealing with hazardous solvents or complex equipment.

The tools you need will depend on your chosen extraction method:

• Butane Extraction – Requires a closed-loop system, vacuum oven, and purge setup
• Ethanol Extraction – Involves a mixing vessel, filters, and rotary evaporator
• CO₂ Extraction – Uses specialized supercritical CO₂ machines
• Rosin Press Extraction – Requires a rosin press, parchment paper, and collection tools

Extraction can involve flammable solvents and high temperatures, so safety is crucial. Make sure to have:

• Protective gear – Gloves, goggles, and clothing to prevent contact with solvents
• Proper ventilation – A fume hood or well-ventilated area to prevent flammable gas buildup
• Emergency supplies – Fire extinguisher and first aid kit in case of accidents

After extraction, you’ll need to remove plant material and residual solvents:

• Filter papers or screens – To strain out plant debris
• Vacuum oven or pump – To purge solvents from concentrates like BHO

Rosin, since it’s solventless, requires no purging—another reason it’s a great beginner-friendly option.

To preserve potency and freshness, use:

• Glass jars – Ideal for long-term storage
• Silicone containers – Great for sticky concentrates like wax or shatter

Proper storage helps maintain the flavor, potency, and consistency of your extract.

Depending on your method, you may also need:

• Precision scales – For accurate measurements
• Measuring tools – Syringes or graduated cylinders
• Heat sources – To assist with extraction or purging
• Stirring implements – For mixing and processing

Making your own cannabis concentrate is an advanced process and not recommended for beginners. Before attempting extraction, make sure to:

• Thoroughly research your chosen method
• Prioritize safety to avoid accidents
• Follow local laws and regulations regarding cannabis extraction