All about Cannabis Nutrients with Color Breakdown

When growing cannabis, nutrient issues can arise that affect the health and development of your precious plants. Below are some of the main nutrient issues to watch out for. I realize nutrient information can be slightly overwhelming, so I’ve broken it down as best I can. I also refer to the colors you are looking for so that you know the proper nutrient deficiency you are having. My hope is if you follow the BrainForest Complete Organic Potting Soil and Supercharged Potting Soil Recipe, you should not run into many nutrient issues, and you can easily shop Amazon for specific products. However, be sure to take the time to hot compost your supercharged portion.  

  1. Nitrogen Deficiency: This is one of the most common nutrient issues in cannabis cultivation. It leads to yellowing of the lower leaves, starting with the older ones. The leaves may appear pale and show signs of overall poor growth.
  2. Phosphorus Deficiency: Phosphorus deficiency results in dark green or purple leaves, often with dark spots or streaks. It can lead to slower growth, poor root development, and reduced flower production.
  3. Potassium Deficiency: Potassium deficiency can cause the leaf margins to turn yellow or brown. Leaves may become brittle and curl upwards. It can also affect bud development and overall plant vigor.
  4. Calcium Deficiency: Calcium deficiency can lead to distorted new growth, brown or yellow spots on the leaves, and poor root development. It can also result in weakened cell walls, making the plant more susceptible to disease.
  5. Magnesium Deficiency: Magnesium deficiency often causes yellowing between the leaf veins, giving leaves a marbled appearance. Older leaves are usually affected first, and they may curl or become brittle.
  6. Sulfur Deficiency: Sulfur deficiency symptoms include yellowing of the entire plant, starting with the newest growth. The plant may also exhibit slower growth and smaller leaves.
  7. Iron Deficiency: Iron deficiency leads to yellowing between the veins, with the veins themselves remaining green. It can affect the plant's ability to produce chlorophyll, leading to reduced photosynthesis.
  8. Zinc Deficiency: Zinc deficiency may cause leaves to develop yellow or white spots between the veins. Leaf tips may become distorted or curl upwards.
  9. Copper Deficiency: Copper deficiency can result in leaves turning a pale green or even yellowish-white. It can cause leaves to become twisted or distorted.
  10. Manganese Deficiency: Manganese deficiency causes yellowing between the veins, often appearing as yellow or white streaks. It can also lead to stunted growth and poor bud development.
  11. Boron Deficiency: Boron deficiency can cause leaves to become distorted, with brittle edges and yellowing. It can also lead to poor root development and smaller buds.
  12. Excess Nutrients: Over-fertilization can lead to nutrient toxicity, which can vary depending on the specific nutrient but often results in burned leaf edges, dark or discolored leaves, and slowed growth.
  13. pH Imbalances: Incorrect pH levels can affect nutrient availability. Cannabis plants prefer a pH range of 6.0 to 6.5. pH imbalances can lead to nutrient lockout, preventing the plant from absorbing essential nutrients.

To prevent and address nutrient issues, it's crucial to maintain the right pH levels, follow a proper feeding schedule, and ensure that you're using quality, balanced nutrient solutions. Regularly monitor your plants and adjust your nutrient regimen as needed based on the specific symptoms you observe. Proper diagnosis and timely correction of nutrient issues are key to successful cannabis cultivation.




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